Meet Matt Starnes | Lead Planner & Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Matt Starnes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Matt, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
I continue to pour my heart into Hospitality Butler because the wedding industry is where my true passion lies. There’s an unparalleled drive within me to make a profound impact on a couple’s most significant day. To witness those tender moments—the exchange of vows, the first dance, the heartfelt speeches—is to see the very trajectory of two lives change forever. It’s a privilege to facilitate a day where solemn promises of continuous love are made, not just to each other, but often extending to their families, solidifying new bonds.

The demanding nature of this work, with its long hours, daunting details, and relentless pursuit of perfection, is always worth it. Every bit of dedication we pour into ensuring our personal attention is focused squarely on the couple, alleviating their stress and bringing their vision to life, fuels my commitment. Knowing that Hospitality Butler plays a part in crafting memories that will last a lifetime, ensuring a day of pure joy and seamless celebration, is the ultimate reward.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I’m thrilled to share the story of Hospitality Butler and what truly sets us apart in the wedding industry. Our core difference lies in an unwavering commitment to deeply personalize every couple’s journey. We don’t just plan events; we become an extension of their vision, meticulously curating every detail from hand-painted ceiling drapery to custom-fabricated chandeliers and bespoke bars. What excites me most is transforming spaces, like leading guests through a 130-foot sailcloth tent into a grand clear-top tent reveal for entertainment. We don’t just offer services; we craft multi-day celebrations, infused with a distinct Nancy Meyers-inspired aesthetic for those who desire timeless elegance. This dedication to crafting truly unique, heartfelt experiences is what I’m most proud of – we build a foundation of trust that allows couples to relax and truly savor their moments.

Getting to where Hospitality Butler is today has been far from easy, but every challenge has reinforced my resolve and deepened my understanding of this demanding craft. The journey has been a relentless pursuit of excellence, navigating everything from unforeseen logistical hurdles to the sheer volume of intricate details that define a multi-day wedding celebration. There are countless long hours, daunting details, and the constant pressure to ensure every element aligns perfectly. Yet, it’s this very intensity that fuels our perseverance. We overcome challenges by leaning into meticulous planning, fostering strong vendor relationships while maintaining a steadfast focus on the couple’s desires.

The most significant lesson I’ve learned is that while the grand gestures are memorable, it’s the personal attention and the seamless execution of every minute detail that truly defines a perfect wedding day. What I want the world to know about Hospitality Butler is that we are more than just planners; we are passionate dream weavers. We understand that a wedding day is a pivotal moment, marking a trajectory-changing course of life and a solemn vow of continuous love. Witnessing those profound moments, knowing that our tireless dedication has allowed a couple to fully immerse themselves in their joy, makes every challenge worthwhile. It’s never easy, but the privilege of being part of such sacred beginnings keeps us pushing forward, always.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This is my kind of challenge! Showing my best friend the absolute best of Charlotte for a week-long trip would be a blast. We’d experience the perfect blend of Southern charm, vibrant city life, delicious food, and thrilling adventure. Here’s how I’d plan it:
Accommodation: We’d start with a luxurious base. I’d book us a stay at The Ivey’s Hotel in Uptown. It’s chic, boutique, and perfectly located for exploring the city on foot or via a quick ride. Alternatively, for a more resort-like feel and if we planned on spending more time relaxing and less in the immediate Uptown bustle, The Ballantyne, A Luxury Collection Hotel, offers an incredible spa and golf.

Day 1: Uptown Immersion & Culinary Delights
Morning (Culture Fix): We’d kick off the day with a deep dive into Charlotte’s art scene. We’d begin at the Bechtler Art Museum, known for its contemporary and world-renowned art, then seamlessly transition to the Foundation For The Carolinas, home to the East Coast’s largest glass museum. Both are fantastic and offer a great overview of visual arts.
Lunch (Casual French Elegance): For lunch, we’d stroll over to Coquette in Uptown. Their French buvette vibe is charming, and their pastries are incredible.
Afternoon (History & Sports): A visit to the NASCAR Hall of Fame is a must, even if you’re not a huge racing fan – it’s incredibly interactive and well-done. Afterward, we’d walk past Bank of America Stadium (home of the Carolina Panthers) and Spectrum Center (Charlotte Hornets) to soak in the city’s sports energy.
Evening (Fine Dining & Intimate Charm): Dinner would be at McNinch House Restaurant, a Charlotte institution revered for its exquisite fine dining in a beautifully restored Victorian home. It’s an intimate, unparalleled culinary experience. After dinner, we’d head to Aura Rooftop at the JW Marriott for sophisticated cocktails and stunning city vistas.

Day 2: South End Vibrancy & Craft Beverages
Morning (Shopping & Brunch): We’d start our day in South End, a trendy neighborhood known for its breweries, art, and unique shops. We’d browse some of the boutiques along Camden Road. For brunch, we’d hit up a popular spot like Barcelona Wine Bar for their amazing tapas and lively atmosphere, or if we wanted something more traditional, Tupelo Honey Cafe for Southern comfort food.
Afternoon (Brewery Hopping & Art Stroll): South End is brewery heaven. We’d spend the afternoon hopping between a few favorites like Sycamore Brewing (great outdoor space, usually food trucks), Wooden Robot Brewery, and Triple C Brewing Co. We’d also keep an eye out for the vibrant street art and murals that adorn many of the buildings in this area.
Evening (Eclectic Dinner & Speakeasy Vibes): Dinner at Culinary Dropout would be perfect – it’s got a fantastic, laid-back vibe with live music, great food, and killer cocktails. Later, for a more intimate experience, we’d head to Sophia’s Lounge, a sophisticated speakeasy known for its unique craft cocktails and opulent ambiance.

Day 3: Adventure & Nature Escape
Full Day (US National Whitewater Center): This is a non-negotiable. We’d spend the entire day at the U.S. National Whitewater Center. We’d choose our adventure: white water rafting, zip-lining, ropes courses, or even just relaxing by the river with a beer. They often have live music in the evenings, so we could grab dinner and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s an incredible outdoor oasis just a short drive from Uptown.
Evening (Relaxed Dinner): After an active day, we’d grab a delicious but more casual dinner near the Whitewater Center, or head back to Charlotte for something easy in a neighborhood like NoDa.

Day 4: Historic Charm & Southern Grandeur
Morning (Historic South Charlotte): We’d head to the elegant Ballantyne area. We’d explore the grounds of The Ballantyne Hotel, maybe even enjoy a coffee or light bite at their Gallery Restaurant.
Afternoon (Gardens & Serenity): A short drive away, we’d immerse ourselves in the stunning Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in Belmont. It’s absolutely beautiful, especially during the blooming season, and offers a peaceful escape.
Evening (Classic Southern Dining): For dinner, we’d indulge in fine dining at The Fig Tree Restaurant, located in a beautifully preserved historic home. Their French and Italian-inspired menu and award-winning wine list create a truly special experience.

Day 5: Lake Life & Charming Towns
Full Day (Lake Norman or Lake Wylie): We’d head north to Lake Norman (or west to Lake Wylie). We could rent a pontoon boat for the day, go paddleboarding, or simply relax by the water. There are several charming lakeside towns like Cornelius or Huntersville with waterfront restaurants and laid-back vibes.
Lunch (Lakeside Bites): We’d grab a casual lunch at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying the views and fresh air.
Evening (Local Flavor): We’d find a great local spot in one of the lake towns for dinner, perhaps a seafood place or a classic Southern eatery.

Day 6: Arts & Eclectic Vibes
Morning (More Culture & Local History): We’d revisit Uptown to check out the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture, which offers unique cultural experiences and insightful exhibitions. We might also stop by the Levine Museum of the New South for a deeper understanding of Charlotte’s post-Civil War history.
Lunch (Food Hall Experience): For a diverse and fun lunch, we’d hit up a food hall like Optimist Hall (just outside of Uptown) or Camp North End. Both offer an array of culinary options, cool vibes, and often local shops to browse.
Afternoon (Unique Shopping & NoDa Exploration): We’d head to the NoDa (North Davidson) arts district. It’s known for its eclectic mix of art galleries, music venues, breweries, and unique independent shops. We’d spend time Browse, perhaps catching some live music if the timing is right.
Evening (Creative Dinner & Live Music): Dinner in NoDa at a spot like Haberdish for elevated Southern cuisine, or something more casual depending on our mood. We’d definitely aim to catch a live band at one of NoDa’s many venues.

Day 7: Farewell Brunch & Last Bites
Morning (Leisurely Brunch): For our final meal, we’d enjoy a fantastic brunch. Depending on what we haven’t hit yet, maybe Little Mama’s Italian for a delightful Italian-American brunch, or a classic like Link & Pin for a lively atmosphere and delicious food.
Afternoon (Last Minute Souvenirs/Relax): A final stroll through a favorite neighborhood, maybe picking up some local Charlotte souvenirs at a place like Paper Skyscraper in Dilworth, before heading to the airport.

Website: https://www.hospitalitybutler.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hospitalitybutler/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-starnes-hospitality-butler/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hospitalitybutlerco/?locale=en_GB

Image Credits
Ceremony: Episcopal Church of Our Savior
Reception Venue: The White Home
Wedding Planner & Designer: Hospitality Butler, Matt Starnes
Photography: Wyeth Photography, Wyeth Augustine
Videographer & Content Creator: Good Films
Band: The Business
Sailcloth Uplighting: Radiant Rentals
Full-Service Catering & Bartending: Southern Way Catering
Officiant: The Rev. Karla Woggan
Florist: Kevin Lear on Main
Live Painter: Meliye Loosle Art
Hospitality Butler Content Creator: Moments To Hold, Sierra Hutchison
Stationary: Olive Paper
Sailcloth Uplighting: Radiant Rentals
Wedding Cake: Celestial Cakery
Bride getting ready at: East Main Guest House
HMU: The Beauty Consultant
Wedding Dress: Magnolia Laine Bridal Charlotte (Pronovias)
MOTB Dress: Paul Simon
Grooms Suit: Gregory’s Formal Wear
Event Rentals:
Curated Events
Ribald Events
Hospitality Butler
Ceremony Music: String Quartet
Reception Sound: Split Second Sound
Ice Sculpture: Artisan Ice Sculptures

planning – @hospitalitybutler
content – @momentstoholdco
photo – @samanthacouickphoto
video – @zaggadigital
florist – @kevinlearonmain
venue – @therevelry_clt
stationery & signage- @paperedhutch
dress – @pninatornai from @kleinfieldbridal
catering & bar – @bestimpressionscatering
chandeliers – @chandelierevents_
lighting – @radiantrentalsnc
dj & strings – @ceasefireprods
aerialist – @dakotafoxentertainment
cake – @kileyssugarshoppe
makeup – @deevamonroe
hair – @thetezgalliano
bridesmaids – @birdygrey
grooms suit – @stitchedbymitch
drapery – @curatedeventscharlotte
rentals – @partyreflections
champagne glasses – @csspecialevents
rings – @jewels.of.nyc
photobooth – @portraitnoir