It’s Friendor Friday and we’re excited to introduce you to one of our newest members, Kathy with Romance & Rust! Looking for a wedding designer with an extensive inventory, Kathy’s your girl! We asked Kathy to tell us more about herself and what makes Romance & Rust different from other rental and planning companies.
Tell us a little bit about you, and how you got started!
Hi! I’m Kathy Wiggins, a wedding and event stylist and the owner of Romance & Rust Weddings and Events. I have been a part of the wedding industry for over 10 years. I never thought I would be a part of the wedding industry, in fact, I joke with my husband and ask “how did I get here?”. In 2013, my bonus daughter, Allison, became engaged and she asked if I would help her with the decor aspect, and I jumped at the chance! Although I had helped create many events over the years, I had no idea what I was getting into! Pinterest was all the rage and every photo was an inspiration.
I’m a bit of a collector, so I had quite a bit of items we could use, however, I knew I needed to purchase or rent more, borrow from friends, etc. to get the look we were after. The design plan was created, everything was packed up, we rented a U Haul truck and then set out to bring her vision to life. My husband and I were literally running to get everything completed. We were unable to spend any time beforehand with Allison on her special day, time we can never get back.
Her wedding was a huge success, everything looked beautiful, everyone had a wonderful time, and Allison and Josh were happily married. We were so happy…but also exhausted. At the end of the evening it was left up to us to break down and pack it all back up. Had we known of a company that did all the work for us, we would have hired them in a heartbeat! Out of my experience, I realized I could provide an invaluable service on one of the most important days of my clients’ lives. I have often said, I do this for my couples, but also for the mamas (and bonus moms) out there ensuring they don’t miss a single minute of their daughter or son’s wedding day.
What makes your business unique?
What makes us different? I often get asked if I am considered a wedding planner. While I may not be a wedding planner per se, my role as a wedding and event stylist encompasses many of the tasks you would typically find in a wedding planner’s partial planning package. I handle crucial aspects of bringing your vision to life, including the design plan creation, decor sourcing, securing rentals, and creating a beautifully styled ambiance. With Romance & Rust, you have access to our 2500 square foot Prop Barn filled to the brim with all styles of decor and furniture pieces where you can “shop” for your big day! Our Premium Styling Package with our add on Wedding Day Management and Coordination services, takes care of two essential concerns on your wedding planning checklist.
What do you enjoy most about working in the wedding industry?
What I enjoy most about working in the wedding industry is the relationships that I have formed over the years, not only with our clients, but also with other wedding professionals. Believe it or not, the wedding community is a small one. It is amazing to see how we all strive to uplift and encourage each other.
What is your favorite part of working with couples?
My favorite part of working with couples is seeing them so happy on their wedding day! After many months of planning all the details, then seeing them come together and their vision come to life, is so rewarding! Seeing their hearts happy, makes my heart happy!
One piece of advice for couples?
My advice for couples is to make your day about the two of you! Incorporate elements that reflect your journey as a couple, your personalities and your style, even if it isn’t “traditional”.
Childhood career aspiration?
As a child, it never crossed my mind that I would be a part of the wedding industry. I always thought I would be a teacher, but looking back, the signs were there. I can remember being a young teen and instead of spending my allowance on clothing or the latest electronics, I would buy curtains, pillows or furniture to decorate my room. Being surrounded by pretty things brought me joy!
Any fun facts or hidden talents?
I’ve been married to my wonderful husband, Scott, for more than two decades. He’s my biggest supporter and encourager, I couldn’t do it without him. I am Mom to two incredible daughters, Savannah and Sydney, and two bonus daughters, Allison and Nicole. It has been an honor of a lifetime to see them grow, find the loves of their lives, and start their own families. Through them, I’ve been given the best gift of all, being called Mimi to 10 grandchildren! The beach is my happy place! I love some good pizza and craft beer! Fall is my most favorite time of year. I love the colors, textures and coziness of the season, including all things pumpkin spice. Being from Middle Tennessee, I just can’t get enough of the aroma of tobacco barns smoking! It takes me back to my childhood.