We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Merisier and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?

I remember when I was getting married and typing into google “luxury wedding inspiration” and clicking through page after page before seeing a face that looked like mine. It bothered me that there was minmal representation in this category for people of color unless you were a celebrity.

I started my business to change this and bring luxury services to all demographics. I knew how to give people the experience I had on my day – valued it and marketed it. It was a huge risk but I fully believed in myself and had so much support from my friends and family.

My first paying wedding design client was my cousin! She gave me full creative freedom and it was a huge confidence booster, in that, if my family is willing to put money down on my ideas then who else will.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What sets us apart from other Wedding Planners is that we genuinely care about our clients and treat them as close friends/family. We are very intentional with the clients we choose to work with as a result of this. We know and understand how important the wedding day is to our clients – there is no IOU if we fail to assist them in their best day ever and we take that very seriously. We have one shot at getting it right and we do everything in our power to ensure their investment in us is money well spent.

Through hard work and dedication, I am constantly aiming to perfect my craft. Being an avid learner and researcher is the best way to go! It’s not easy by any means – competition is real and trust in yourself about your passion is paramount. I overcome my personal challenges about each event by listening to the feedback from my staff, clients and their guests. There have been multiple instances where I have felt awful after a wedding and the guests have consistently thanked me for giving them an exceptional experience. An important lesson for me is that it’s okay if things are not “perfect” in my eyes. As long as the expectations of my clients are met and exceeded then its okay to give myself a pat on the back. By having high expectations I always hit that mark!

One important lesson for anyone considering becoming a Wedding Planner is to go into this industry with love – it will come back to you ten fold! Be kind – keep your ego in check and if you are not a quick thinker, reconsider this industry completely!

I would like to world to know that we love celebrating love in all forms and if you want an exceptional experience for you and your guests – give us a call or shoot us an email, we would love to help you navigate the “wedding crazy” one checklist item at a time. We only handle 15 weddings per year to ensure we can dedicate ourselves to your event needs fully. Biggest piece of advice I can give to engaged couples on the lookout for a Planner, whomever you choose to work with for your special day, proceed in trust first!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Favorite spots we love to go to on Long Island are the restaurants – we’re foodies over here! Prime in Huntington for American Faire by the water is excellent, Ginger Bites Haitian Bistro for true Haitian home cooked cuisine is a must in Huntington Station and Oheka Castle for brunch is exquisite!

For a night out with the crew we also love Rare 650 in Syosset – good food and vibes on Thursday nights!

Our malls are the best in NY – I’m from here so I’m biased, haha but Americana in Manhasset, Roosevelt Field in Garden City and Walt Whitman Mall in Melville are all you need to find any and everything!

Vanderbilt Musuem is a must see and Selfie Clubhouse in Hicksville is a great spot to take the kids for some photo fun!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Lilian Haidar of Lilian Haidar Photography and Film has been such a huge support in helping me navigate the luxury wedding industry. She has the mentality of getting in the door and leaving it open for others.

She has been and continues to be extremely encouraging, loving and kind. Her willingness to share her craft and creativity has led me to doors that otherwise would not have been open and I am grateful for our friendship and professional relationship.

I am dedicating my shoutout to Lilian because I would not be where I am without her and I am forever grateful!

Website: www.amerisierevents.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/amerisierevents

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/amerisierevents/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/amerisierevents

Image Credits
LH Photography and Film Aly Kuler Photography Chellise Michael Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.