Meet Kayla: Love Letter Weddings Lead Planner

Photo credit Carol Olivia Photography

Next up in our Meet the Team series is Kayla, another one of our lead planners at Love Letter Weddings!

My Story

If you had met me as a kid, “type A” probably wouldn’t have crossed your mind. I was more the social butterfly type, always ready to have fun, talked a little too much, and lived life one day at a time. Growing up as a farm kid in a small town in Minnesota meant lots of chores, school, sports, and a busy social life. I was constantly on the move, so “go-with-the-flow” was my survival strategy. I’m also the oldest daughter with two younger sisters, which has always led me to be strong and independent, but also compassionate, empathetic, and supportive. I have always loved connecting with people and being a person that people feel comfortable around and able to express themselves exactly as they are.

My organizational skills started taking form when I left home to study psychology at the University of Minnesota–Duluth. Structure started slowly creeping in, but it wasn’t until I was planning my own wedding during my senior year, in addition to preparing to move across an ocean and working as much as I could, that I learned just how powerful being organized could actually be. Once I began color-coding my school, work, and wedding tasks, I never looked back!

After graduating, marrying my husband Hunter, and moving to Hawaii, I started my search for what I called my first “big girl job.” With experience in the restaurant industry and a psychology degree in hand, I wasn’t sure what direction I’d go. Moving so far away from home has forced me to experience so many new things and widen my perspective in every area of my life. It showed me how much I love learning new things and challenging myself. So, when I stumbled upon a job posting for a wedding planner position helping with micro ceremonies and elopements, I remember thinking, I loved planning my own wedding. Maybe I can do this for others too.

I landed the job, dove headfirst into the industry, and learned so much about weddings in Hawaii. Everything from vendor communication and the relevant local laws to how to run a ceremony processional. But the most important thing I discovered? I absolutely loved it. There’s nothing like being part of a day so full of joy and meaning.

Eventually, I wanted to continue to grow further in the industry, and that’s when I heard about Love Letter Weddings. I applied and Louise hired me to assist on our Day-Of Coordination Team, and I instantly felt at home with the team. I loved the way LLW balances structure with creativity, and it felt like the perfect fit for my personality and style. Soon after that first event, I signed up for the internship position, eager to soak up every ounce of knowledge I could. Before long, Louise was training me as a lead planner, and I began booking my own couples. Today, I have my own roster of Love Letter Weddings clients and still happily assist Louise whenever she needs me.

My Signature Approach

I like to say I wasn’t born type A, but I grew into it. My type B roots still run deep, so I like to think that I bring the best of both worlds to wedding planning: I’m highly organized and detail-oriented, but I also help couples stay calm, flexible, and focused on what really matters.

My motto? Every problem has a solution. I truly believe with enough caffeine and a deep breath, I can do just about anything. Whether it is tracking down your missing veil right before I send you down the aisle or figuring out how to bring your elaborate seating chart vision to life, I like to be the calm in the storm. My goal is to make sure your day feels low stress and you are able to be present and in the moment every step of the way. 

I love digging in, asking questions, and figuring things out, without letting stress take over. I’m also a big believer in honesty and transparency. If I don’t know something, you’ll hear me say, “I’m not sure, but I’ll find out!” That curiosity keeps me growing and ensures I’m always bringing the best to my couples.

At the end of the day, I genuinely love what I do. I see myself not just as a planner, but as a supporter, cheerleader, and advocate for every couple I work with. Weddings are about love, joy, and connection, and I feel lucky every day to be part of that magic.

Photo credit Emily Turner Photography

My Favorite Part of the Planning Process

Design! I’ve always been a creative at heart. I love drawing, painting, sewing, and creating in any form. For me, event design is another way to fulfill that creative side while also helping couples bring their story to life. My Pinterest boards are my happy place, and I’m constantly inspired by new ideas, colors, and textures. Working with couples to dream up a design that feels both beautiful and true to them is such a rewarding process. Every design we create is a testament to the couple and their love story, and being part of that is something I’ll never get tired of.

What Inspires Me Most About Weddings

For me, it all comes down to connection. On a wedding day, I love watching all the pieces come together. Not just the design details, but the stories, emotions, and people. If you catch me during vows or toasts, chances are you’ll see me tearing up a bit or hear me laughing along with the maid of honor’s best jokes. After months of planning side by side with my couples, those little moments feel extra special. Hearing the stories their loved ones share and seeing how all the personal details we incorporated into the wedding itself connect throughout the day is one of the best parts of my job. It’s a reminder that what we’re creating isn’t just an event, it’s another part of your love story. That’s what keeps me passionate about this work.

Let’s Plan Something That Feels Like You

At the end of the day, I believe wedding planning should feel exciting, not overwhelming. I want my couples to feel cared for, supported, and reminded that this whole celebration is about them. If you’re dreaming of a wedding in Hawaii that feels personal, organized, and joy-filled, I’d love to connect. Reach out through our contact form and tell me your love story. I can’t wait to help you bring it to life!