the journal

Let’s be honest—everyone loves a beautiful ceremony and a swoon-worthy reception, but it’s the late night wedding snacks that have your guests talking long after the sparkler send-off.Whether they’ve been on the dance floor for hours or need something to soak up the signature cocktails, late night snacks are the perfect blend of surprise, comfort, […]

When it comes to planning a luxury wedding in Georgia, New York, Florida, or any of our favorite destinations from the Carolinas to New Jersey, one question inevitably arises: should you pay for bridal party hair and makeup? The short answer? Ninety percent of the time, yes. But, as with all things luxury, it’s about […]

If there’s one thing our brides love, it’s ease without compromise—and we just made your big day even smoother. We’re thrilled to announce that Shuman Koutory Event and Design now offers bridal hair and makeup services alongside our full-service wedding planning, florals, and event design. Imagine waking up on your wedding morning with everything taken […]

If you’re planning a wedding across time zones, first—take a deep breath. Whether your heart is set on a destination wedding or you and your fiancé live in different states (or countries!), it’s absolutely possible to plan something beautiful without the chaos.As a luxury wedding planner, I’ve worked with couples coordinating from opposite sides of […]

There’s something magnetic about an orange wedding theme that whispers warmth, passion, and a little rebellion — the kind of vibe that refuses to be boxed in. Emberlight Elegance and Untamed Romance tells a design story drenched in deep oranges, luscious plums, and glowing golds, all wrapped in a smoky, ethereal glow. This theme suits […]

There’s a moment at every wedding—right before the ceremony begins—when everything goes still.A hush falls over the space. A deep breath is taken. A glance is exchanged that says “this is it.”It’s in that quiet moment that the reason why you hire a wedding planner becomes clear. Not Just a Timeline—A Touchstone Anyone can build […]

Welcome to Shuman Koutory Event and Design. I’m Ashli Shuman — mom of four, wife, and your personal guide on this incredible journey. From Early Dreams to Real Life Before I ever dreamed of crafting unforgettable weddings, I watched wedding shows by mentors like David Tutera and Cowie. I imagined myself not just as a […]

When you’re planning a multicultural wedding, you’re not just choosing a venue or a color palette—you’re curating a meaningful experience that tells a deeper story. One that speaks to who you are, where you come from, and where you’re going—together. Whether you’re blending two cultures or highlighting a single heritage, there’s something powerful about honoring […]

Some love stories don’t just begin—they arrive like a whispered promise that builds over time. For Tatiana and Jordan Chaskin, theirs was a romance 10 years in the making—3,652 days to be exact. A relationship rooted in intention, style, and a deep understanding of who they are individually and together. So when it came time […]

Getting married soon? Let’s talk Mexico.You’ve found your person, you’re dreaming of dreamy views and palm trees, and Mexico is calling your name louder than tequila on a Tuesday. But wait—how do you actually get married there and make it legal back home? As your go-to wedding bestie (with a clipboard and a killer dress), […]