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Planning a wedding is no small feat, and for the team at 828 Planning in Charlotte, North Carolina, it’s all about turning your vision into an unforgettable reality. As the in-house planning team at PINE and experts in planning events across Charlotte’s stunning venues, they bring passion, creativity, and a touch of magic to every event they design.
We sat down with Rya, one of 828 Planning’s top wedding planners, to get an inside look at what it takes to create dream weddings, their favorite planning tips, and what makes Charlotte such an amazing place to tie the knot.
Q&A with Rya: Secrets Behind the Scenes of Wedding Magic
Q: What inspired you to become a wedding planner?
A: I’ve always been someone who thrives on organization and structure — whether it was in sports, friendships, or relationships, I’ve found comfort and satisfaction in having everything in order. At the same time, I’ve always loved connecting with people and getting to know what makes them unique. For me, the idea of being behind a desk all day just didn’t feel right. I love interaction, building relationships, and helping people express themselves in meaningful ways.
Wedding planning combines all of these; It lets me use my organizational skills while connecting with couples on a personal level to bring their dreams to life. It’s a career that perfectly matches everything I’ve learned about myself over the years, and it feels like the ideal fit.
Q: What do you think sets PINE apart as a wedding venue?
A: At PINE, we truly believe that our team is one of our biggest strengths. We get along so well that we even hang out outside of work — despite already spending so many hours together each week! The way we mesh together translates into the experience we create for our couples.
As for the space itself, one feature that really sets us apart is our upstairs mezzanine. Having an elevated space adds a unique touch to PINE, giving it a more refined and versatile feel. It’s a perfect lounging area for guests who want to get away from the music, or for private conversations during cocktail hour. For the wedding party, the mezzanine is ideal for getting ready before the ceremony, without being cramped in a small room. With access to a lounge space, two bathrooms, a pool table, and a TV, it’s got everything someone could need to unwind and relax!
Q: What is the most unique or unexpected request you’ve ever received from a couple?
A: One of the most heartwarming and unique requests came from a couple who wanted [everyone involved] to dress in a very specific cultural style for their wedding. They offered to custom-make something for me to wear, so I could feel included with their guests. It was such a lovely consideration and really made me feel like I was a part of their special day in a deeper way. Their gesture reminded me just how meaningful weddings can be, not only for the couple but for everyone involved.
Q: What tips do you have for couples trying to stick to a budget without compromising their vision?
A: I always encourage couples to start by outlining their biggest priorities for the event day — whether that’s decor, a great DJ, lighting, or even specific outfits. This helps them identify what will have the most impact on their overall happiness and experience, allowing them to allocate their budget to what truly matters.
It’s also become increasingly popular for couples to take a DIY approach to decor. Websites like Amazon make it easy to buy items in bulk, which can be a more affordable option than renting. Plus, doing things yourself can make the process more personal and fun, while still giving you that customized, high-quality feel you’re aiming for.
Q: How do you help couples make their wedding feel personal and unique to them?
A: I always encourage couples to design their wedding around the things that reflect their personal life. I ask them to consider their home decor — are they more of a maximalist, with lots of knickknacks and items that hold personal value, or do they lean toward a minimalist style, finding peace in having just a few meaningful items? I also ask them to think about their daily choices, like what colors they gravitate toward in their outfits or how they choose to dress for a special night out.
When we take inspiration from their everyday life, their wedding becomes an authentic reflection of who they are as a couple. When guests walk into the venue, it should feel like a true extension of the couple’s personality.
Q: What advice would you give to couples who are planning their wedding in 2025/26?
A: I always recommend that couples hire a planner, even if they feel like they can handle the planning themselves. While it’s become more common for couples to try and plan everything on their own, having a third set of eyes can really make the process smoother and less stressful. Your wedding day should be one of the happiest moments of your life, and the planning process should reflect that. It shouldn’t be a time where you feel overwhelmed or stressed out, only to finally relax after the day is over.
As a wedding planner myself, I know how important it is to enjoy the journey, and when I get married, I will absolutely have a planner to ensure the experience is memorable for all the right reasons.
Why Choose 828 Planning for Your Charlotte Wedding
828 Planning is more than just a team of wedding planners—they’re experts at making your vision come to life, no matter the style or scale of your event. Whether you’re hosting your wedding at PINE or another venue in Charlotte, their team will ensure every detail is seamless and stress-free, leaving you free to enjoy your day.
Ready to start planning your dream wedding? Contact 828 Planning today to learn more about their services and how they can help bring your vision to life.
