We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kate Turner. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kate below.

Kate, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. One of the things we most admire about small businesses is their ability to diverge from the corporate/industry standard. Is there something that you or your brand do that differs from the industry standard? We’d love to hear about it as well as any stories you might have that illustrate how or why this difference matters.

One of the unique aspects of our business is our conscious decision to deviate from industry norms in two key ways. First, our company name is not my personal name, unlike many in the wedding and special events industry. This choice elevates my team, showcasing their talents as equally, if not more, important than mine. Second, we separate operations/logistics from design. Many creatives struggle with planning, and some planners may not grasp design. By having subject matter experts in both areas, we ensure events are both well-designed and flawlessly executed, maintaining a perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality.

One memorable event highlighted the importance of this approach. It was held at a private residence when a tornado touched down just 4 miles away. While many event professionals might focus solely on aesthetics, our operations team quickly implemented safety protocols, relocating guests and securing the site. This allowed our design team to adapt and maintain the event’s visual appeal despite the adverse conditions. The seamless coordination between our logistics and design teams ensured the event continued safely and beautifully, showcasing why our integrated approach is essential.

Kate, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m Kate Turner, the Founder and Creative Director of Kate + Company, an event planning firm based in the Midwest. Established in 2012, we’ve redefined wedding design in the region with a concierge meets interior design approach. Our work has been featured in Vogue, Bride’s Magazine, Martha Stewart, and Grace Ormonde, but my favorite showcases are in our clients’ albums and Instagram feeds. We’ve been honored to have been named one of the best event planners in the world by Vogue, Brides, and Loverly.

In 2013, I co-founded 23 City Blocks Hospitality Group, introducing restaurant-style cuisine to private events in Saint Louis. This innovative company, which we sold in 2022, pushed the boundaries of luxury in the Midwest. Recently, I launched Kate’s Party People, an education platform helping event professionals redefine luxury in smaller markets. This summer, we’re launching Marinelle Event Co., a female-led production company named after my grandmother.

What sets us apart is our commitment to excellence and our incredible team. Unlike many in our industry, we separate operations from design, ensuring both logistical precision and creative brilliance. Our goal is to create stunning events that reflect each couple’s unique style.

My biggest pride is in my team and the beautiful, personalized events we create. When I’m not orchestrating weddings, I love exploring new cities, spending time with my family, and seeking new inspirations.

Kate + Company is more than just event planning; it’s about crafting unforgettable experiences that honor the individuality of each client. We look forward to continuing our journey of innovation and excellence in the world of events.

Have you ever had to pivot?

Being a working mom has not been easy, and my journey has been filled with significant challenges. My husband and I went through over eight years of fertility treatments, including IVF, and faced the heartbreak of miscarriages. During this period, while I was surrounded by celebrations of love at work, my personal life was in turmoil. My parents’ separation after 30 years of marriage added to the stress, making me feel like my world was falling apart.

However, post-March 2020, when the hospitality industry faced unprecedented challenges, my husband and I adopted a new approach to our lives and work. We don’t conform to the traditional 1950s marriage model where the man is the breadwinner and the woman handles all domestic duties. I work full-time, and while Adam also works full-time, he takes on the responsibilities of school pick-ups, caring for the kids when they are sick, and preparing dinner. It takes a very special man to step into that role so beautifully and seamlessly.

Despite our balanced partnership, I still struggle with mom-guilt. I often question if I am a bad mom for working so much, for not wanting to be a stay-at-home mom, and for feeling so fulfilled when I am working. I love my kids beyond belief, but I am a better mom when I have my creative and entrepreneurial outlets.

I want to give readers permission to create a new normal that works for them. It doesn’t have to conform to others’ expectations. It’s okay if your lifestyle and marriage function differently. It’s also good for your kids to see a hardworking woman in their lives. As a mother of all boys, I proudly embrace being the queen of the house.

Feeling guilty is normal, but it doesn’t mean you are doing anything wrong. It’s important to remember that every family is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Find what makes you and your family thrive and embrace it fully.

Has your business ever had a near-death moment? Would you mind sharing the story?

The 2020 pandemic nearly destroyed our industry, which went from nearly $8 billion to a complete halt. It was the worst time in my life, navigating being a new mom for the second time and battling postpartum depression. Instead of spending my days with my newborn, I was arguing with couples who didn’t understand the economics of our business.

While Kate + Co. clients were hugely understanding, our hospitality business saw different side. Many couples demanded full refunds, not realizing their payments covered more than just the wedding day. They funded everything from staff salaries, utilities, and insurance to maintaining the venue’s readiness. The pandemic wasn’t their fault, but it wasn’t mine either, yet we faced an onslaught of nasty emails, phone calls, and legal threats.

Ultimately, we returned nearly 90% of deposits because it felt right, despite spending $20k a month to keep the lights on and covering healthcare costs for our furloughed team. During this time, I was dealing with postpartum depression, a newborn, and unhappy staff, which nearly broke me. In September 2020, my father, also my business partner, was diagnosed with cancer for the second time, and we decided to sell the business.

The experience was a period of intense self-reflection. I realized my true passion lay in the creative side, not the daily operations. As I sat in the hospital with my father, it became clear that selling was the right decision. After this exit, I restructured Kate + Co. to separate operations from creative, which greatly improved our business. Although one leg of our business paid the price, I emerged as a stronger, wiser person and a better mother, daughter, friend, sister, and businesswoman because of it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kateandcollc.com
• Instagram: @kateandcompany
• Facebook: /kateandcollc
• Other: www.marinelle.co (yes, no m)
  www.katespartypeople.com

Image Credits

Abby Jiu Photography
Mike Cassimatis Photography