Love Logistics: The Power of the Planner

from 2023 Anna Maria Island Weddings

by Anna Maria Island Wedding Association

Real Wedding / Morgan & Ethan

Your wedding day is one of the most important milestones in your life, and pulling off the perfect celebration requires more than just a checklist. In the world of wedding planning, Laura Detwiler stands out as an event planner extraordinaire, armed with a level head, a healthy dose of creativity, and a knack for thinking outside the box. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Laura has mastered the art of event management, ensuring that every couple’s special day is nothing short of magical.

For Laura, cookie-cutter weddings are a thing of the past. Instead, she seeks to craft a unique and immersive experience for couples and their guests. Often spanning multiple days and venues, each event, from the welcome party to the ceremony, reception, and farewell brunch, is meticulously planned as a distinct and unforgettable chapter of the celebration. This approach allows Laura to infuse every aspect of the wedding with its own personality and flavor while maintaining a cohesive thread throughout.

**Wedding planner, Laura Detwiler.**
Photo by Lifelong Photography

To begin the planning process for this multi-day wedding extravaganza, Laura sat down with the couple to understand their vision. One of her favorite aspects of the job is the personal connection she establishes with her clients. “Some

people come to me with a clear vision, while others need guidance to think creatively and step outside their comfort zone,” Laura reveals. Once the couple’s ideas start to take shape, Laura collaborates closely with them to select the perfect vendors and locations for each event. By maintaining consistency in vendor choices across the various celebrations, she ensures a seamless experience while allowing each occasion to have its distinct atmosphere.

While the traditional multi-day wedding celebration often includes a rehearsal dinner, welcome party, ceremony,

reception, and farewell brunch, Laura believes in expanding the possibilities. After-parties and engagement parties are just a few additional events she encourages her clients to consider. Moreover, exceptional venues like the magnificent Powel Crosley Estate in Sarasota become a viable option for grander affairs. Nestled by the water, this historic mansion boasts enchanting indoor and outdoor spaces capable of accommodating over 200 guests. Laura describes it as a rare gem that combines ample capacity with a rich cultural heritage: “Powel Crosley is not only stunning, but it also holds a deep sense of history. Its location by the water adds to its allure.”

Laura’s passion and expertise shine through in every wedding she plans, and Rachel and Senthil’s particular celebration perfectly exemplifies her creative prowess. Working with the couple honoring both American and Indian heritages, Laura orchestrated two distinct wedding events. Initially expecting a guest list of 400-500 attendees, the celebrations ultimately welcomed around 250 guests. “It was an exhilarating event,” Laura reflects, recalling the couple’s exceptional ideas that transformed the wedding into a unique and unforgettable experience for everyone involved. “I cherish opportunities that allow me to think outside the box and unleash my creativity. I genuinely love what I do; it’s my passion.”