For those orchestrating unforgettable celebrations, wedding season is a thrilling rhythm of energy and excitement. With back-to-back events, long days, and the pressure of ensuring every detail is flawless, industry professionals must rely on refined strategies to maintain their energy, focus, and creativity. Whether planning your own wedding, working in events, or simply looking for ways to manage a high-energy schedule with grace, experts from the Kehoe Designs family of brands share tips to inspire you.
Photo Credit: Christian Rasmussen
The Essentials
When schedules fill, comfort and self-care become essential. For Daniel Pupo, Director of Production, the key is simple yet effective: “Comfortable shoes, and red wine.” A practical foundation for enduring long hours, paired with a well-earned indulgence at the end of the day.
Senior Event Designer Mal Marencik takes a more active approach, finding solace in movement and connection, attending SoulCycle classes with coworkers. “No matter how hectic the season gets, that time to recharge and reset keeps me feeling balanced and motivated," underscoring the importance of carving out moments for personal well-being, even in the busiest of times.
For some, self-care lies in the details. “Having freshly ironed clothes helps me feel more mentally prepped for whatever the day brings,” offers Jasmine Arteaga, BlackOak Tech Associate Producer.
Photo Credit: Christian Rasmussen
The Short List: Here are top-three essentials always within reach:
The Art of Preparation
A successful event begins long before guests arrive. Highlighting the power of centering oneself before diving into the demands of the day, Pupo starts his day with a relatable ritual, sitting alone with a cup of coffee to think about the day.
For Brown, preparation means ensuring both body and mind are ready for the demands ahead, emphasizing hydration and snacks; to focus her mind, she queues up a playlist. A reminder that small habits can have a profound impact in maintaining stamina and positivity amidst the whirlwind of event production.
Photo Credit: Christian Rasmussen
The Wind-Down Ritual
After the final lights have dimmed, unwinding is a crucial part of reenergizing for the next event. Pupo enjoys a mix of nostalgia and relaxation, with a hot shower and I Love Lucy. Brown turns to a time-honored remedy: "A hot Epsom-salt bath works wonders on sore muscles; turning on my favorite emotional support show calms my brain." BlackOak Tech Sales & Design Manager Kevin Pelz transitions seamlessly to a state of tranquility, shedding his professional attire as a ritual of renewal, propping his feet up and beginning profound dialog about life and happiness with his feline companions.
Photo Credit: Katie Kett Photography
Executing at the highest level - whether producing a wedding or managing your own busy schedule - requires balance and intentional choices. Taking a moment to celebrate the effort also goes a long way in reigniting the spark – the Kehoe team in particular takes immense pride in seeing a bride witness their vision brought to reality. “It never fails to give me chills,” claims Marencik.
From comfortable footwear and hydration to mindful mornings and essential event-day tools, these expert-approved strategies are as elegant as they are practical. After all, creating magic for others starts with taking care of yourself.
Photo Credit: Natalie Probst Photography
Kehoe Designs
2555 S. Leavitt St Chicago, IL 60608
P:312.421.0030 [email protected]
@kehoedesigns.com
Photography by: Courtesy of Christian Rasmussen, Natalie Probst Photography, Katie Kett Photography
