Certified Timeline Genius
Vanessa Solis
What attracted you to become a wedding planner and what is your favorite part of the planning process?
What attracted me to become a planner was the realization that every day is worth celebrating—and that people often just need a little help turning their vision into reality. After experiencing deep personal loss, I left my career as an elementary school teacher and felt called to help others create meaningful, joy-filled moments. I didn’t just want to throw parties—I wanted to help people be present for the moments that matter. My favorite part of the planning process is that magical moment when everything falls into place and the client feels it—the vision, the vibe, all the little details that make a celebration feel personal and unforgettable. I love guiding clients from “I have no idea where to start” to “this is exactly what I pictured…and more!” It’s like putting together a puzzle where the final image is a memory that lasts. Whether it’s a big wedding, a backyard milestone, or a themed celebration just for fun—being able to turn someone’s story into an experience they’ll always cherish is what makes this work so special to me.
What advice would you offer someone considering to become a wedding Planner?
My biggest piece of advice? Lead with heart, but plan with strategy. Becoming a planner isn’t just about loving parties—it’s about juggling a hundred moving parts while keeping your clients calm, confident, and excited. It’s equal parts creative and logistical. Start by testing out and selecting your systems early. Tools, timelines, and workflows will be your best friends when things get busy. Don’t be afraid to say no to projects or clients that don’t align with your values. Also, remember that every celebration is personal to someone. Treat it that way. Listen well, ask good questions, and bring your clients' stories to life with intention. Finally, find your people. Community over competition will get you so much further. Lean into vendor relationships, mentorships, and networking opportunities—you never know when someone will become your go-to referral, your support system, or your biggest cheerleader. And one more thing: wear comfy shoes. Your future self will thank you.
What are some of your favorite online resources and softwares for wedding planners?
Two of my absolute favorite tools that I couldn’t live without as a planner are HoneyBook and Timeline Genius. Together, they’ve completely transformed how I manage events—and my peace of mind. HoneyBook keeps my entire client experience seamless and professional, from proposals and contracts to invoices and automated emails. It saves me hours each week and helps my clients feel supported throughout each step. Then there’s Timeline Genius, which is a total game-changer for creating master timelines and detailed checklists. It’s intuitive, customizable, and helps me keep all vendors and teams aligned without the spreadsheet headache. I love how it tailors timelines for each person’s role—it’s efficient, professional, and honestly just makes me look really good! These two platforms allow me to focus more on people and creative vision—knowing the backend is handled with structure and style.