The Mentor

from The Knot Summer 2023

The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.

THESE PROS ARE COACHES AND ADVISERS. THEY’RE EDUCATORS WHO WANT TO SHARE THEIR WEALTH OF KNOWLEDGE AND ARE INVESTED IN SUPPORTING EMERGING ARTISTS.

Kaytee Stice

Turn

Afrik views his role as not just a photographer, but a teacher: “I coach people to be their most beautiful selves in front of the camera.” His mentorship extends to aspiring pros as well. “As a person of color, I hope to inspire others to believe anything is possible—as my own story proves. Ten years ago, I was homeless for a time, and yet I broke through in a white-dominated industry. We must never forget how limitless our potential is.”

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING: “Afrik is not only a kind human, but a talented, down-to-earth photographer.” — @MusaWeddings

Shean Strong of Shean Strong Design

@SheanStrong

Based in: Georgia

Expertise: Floral Designer

Founded: March 2017

Motivated by: Educating for Growth

Shean cares about transparency and education, both with his clients and with the industry at large. From managing pricing expectations with couples to teaching blossoming floral designers, Shean is motivated to give back through his role as an educator. “I love giving students the confidence to grow their businesses. I take deep pride in being able to share my trials and successes with others and give them the tools to set themselves apart in an ever-growing industry.”

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING: “Shean is innovative, professional and just allaround fun to collaborate with.”

— @EvaClarkEvents

Based in: Kentucky

Expertise: Floral Designer

Founded: February 2016

Motivated to: Create Space for Relationships

“I value creating spaces where vendors can authentically connect and grow.” Along with fellow One to Watch Samantha Leenheer, Kaytee co-created a multi-day experience for wedding pros to learn and network. “I love being able to uplift, inspire and challenge business owners to follow their passion so they can lead with purpose and confidence in their work.”

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING:

“From clients to creative partners, emerging florists and other industry peers, Kaytee has the ability to make each individual feel seen, heard and included.”

— @AbbyMcKinneyEvents

“I hope to be a beacon of empathy and to tell my clients’ stories so they feel seen. To make that happen, I want every couple to stay flexible. Our industry moves so quickly that you never know what new ideas are around the corner. Being open-minded is the best way to allow your budget to adjust to your needs while having fun planning.”

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING:

“Samantha pushes design limits wherever she can. She could transform a parking garage into something whimsical. She’s a thought leader who deserves to be recognized and applauded for her innovation in the Midwest market.” — @ChelseyJBarhorst