Wedding Pros You Need to Know: The Knot Ones to Watch 2025

It's here: our annual, editor-curated list of up-and-comers making waves in the wedding biz.

Gif for The Knot Ones to Watch 2025 list of notable emerging wedding vendors

Photos: Courtesy of Velvet Valley Cakes, Nikki Baker Photography, Lauren Apel, Jess McDole Weddings, Erica Warren, Salma K Photo,Design: Tiana Crispino

Updated Nov 06, 2025

As wedding editors, we see it all: the movement of trend cycles, the shifting priorities of couples and—especially—the emerging vendors that are truly the future of weddings. The Knot Ones to Watch is our way to illuminate a handful of these standout wedding pros from across the US, celebrating the talents they bring to the table. A wedding pro is someone who's a true wedding professional, with a cutting-edge vision and a firm handle on their craft. And, despite being newer to the industry as a whole (under eight years, to be exact), every wedding vendor in this curated cohort fits the definition flawlessly. These honorees approach their work with an artist's eye, a compassionate heart and a strong set of values.

Your Go-to for Top Pros: The Knot Vendor Marketplace

Whether these folks are bookable in your wedding area or simply can offer some inspiration as you assemble your own rockstar vendor team via The Knot Vendor Marketplace, it's worth knowing these names. By the way, you can save every image and vendor profile shown here to Your Favorites in your The Knot account, just click the little heart in the upper-right corner. You can also save the full article by clicking the heart in the bottom left of your screen. (It's a great idea, since you can refer back to our honoree cohort when you're ready to book your own vendors.)

That said, let's meet these rising stars. We now pronounce these 21 dazzling wedding pros The Knot Ones to Watch 2025.

What's The Knot's One to Watch?

The Knot Ones to Watch is our annual docket of notable emerging wedding pros from across the US. We seek values-driven vendors for weddings who are pushing the industry forward through their commitment to advocacy, innovation or connection. This editorially curated group includes 20–30 wedding professionals, all in business for under eight years, who we feel are the future of weddings. Think of this group as the ultimate preferred vendor list. The Knot Ones to Watch 2025 honorees will be the third cohort of its kind, following strong groups of unique wedding vendors in 2024 and 2023.

How The Knot Ones to Watch Wedding Pros Are Selected

Given that there are thousands of wedding professionals across the country, you might wonder how we landed on these specific standout businesses. These parameters guided us in our search for rising talent across all categories (and could even guide your own search once you decide when to book wedding vendors). The Knot Ones to Watch honorees must:

Requirements for consideration:

Own a wedding-industry business that's under eight years old
Approach their field with a cutting-edge and creative mindset
Pass a round of vetting by a 12-person committee made up of nine folks from The Knot and three esteemed industry experts
Receive a positive reference from industry peers and colleagues
Be well-respected and aligned with the editorial policy (and core values) of The Knot.

Ones to Watch Categories

Following in the footsteps of the 2024 wedding vendor directory of honorees, all of the wedding vendor listings in The Knot Ones to Watch 2025 will fall into one of three categories based on what drives their businesses most.

The Advocate

Honorees who demonstrate a commitment to pushing diversity forward through inclusivity. These pros are uniters and amplifiers. They're motivated by a desire to invite people in while creating work that authentically reflects a couple's roots.

The Innovator

Honorees who demonstrate a commitment to pushing design forward through creativity. These pros are trailblazers and visionaries. They're trendsetters and tastemakers who think outside the box to dream up new and inventive wedding ideas.

The Connector

Honorees who demonstrate a commitment to pushing community forward through networking. These pros are bridge-builders, cheerleaders and mentors. They're supportive team players who care about creating space for all to thrive.

The Advocate The Knot Ones to Watch 2025 Honorees

Not only does each wedding vendor in this category care about providing their couples with exceptional services, but they also care about how the work gets done. These The Knot wedding vendors approach their businesses with the aim of making the wedding industry more equitable, inclusive and mindful.

Poppy + Lynn: Amy Lynn

Amy Lynn of Poppy + Lynn The Knot Ones to Watch

Wedding pro details:

Position: Founder & lead wedding planner
Based in: New York
Expertise: Planning
Founded: 2020
Fun fact: Lynn trained for 15 years in vocal performance and acting.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

Not only does Poppy + Lynn produce highly personalized celebrations that read equal parts fancy and funky, but every wedding is driven by Lynn's core beliefs. "I'm incredibly transparent throughout the process and vocal about my values, which leads to deep connections with my clients and fellow vendors," she says. "I also really take the time to get to know my clients and their values, and find ways to infuse those things into the day. If they prioritize sustainability, I'll help find vendors that do the same."

The planner takes care to create an environment that feels inviting and welcoming to all marriers—across sexualities, cultures, body types and more—to take concerns about representation in the wedding industry into her own hands. She ensures her portfolio highlights couples from diverse demographics and is mindful to source vendors that will fully celebrate and honor each pair of lovebirds.

"Sure, I'd love to be remembered as someone who has a great design eye, is creative and who made exceptionally cool events. But more than that, I want to be known for advocating for love in all forms," says Lynn.

Love note: "I'm a floral designer and have worked with Amy multiple times throughout her career. And I can say with confidence that she cares about every detail and design, and cares about her couples' happiness just as much. Amy stands by her principles and values, and it carries over into her work. She's consistently and authentically herself while doing all she can to show loving hospitality to her couples. Her dedication to inclusion and diversity is honest and true." –A Lily Among Thorns

Beauty By Madeline Eleanor: Madeline Eleanor

Wedding pro details:

Position: Lead artist & founder
Based in: New York
Expertise: Beauty
Founded: 2021
Fun fact: Her work has appeared in Sephora as the key image for a Bobbi Brown foundation campaign.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

Whether it's for a celebration taking place in her native New York or a far-flung destination, Eleanor takes care to deliver beauty looks that read natural, fresh and elegant in person, yet look polished in front of a camera. (No doubt thanks to her experience working with celebrities and at Bridal Fashion Week.) Additionally, she's passionate about making a diverse roster of marriers comfortable in her chair, with deep experience working across different skin tones, textures and hair types.

Just as important as her talents is how her business gives back. "I have volunteered makeup services for organizations in New York that create performance opportunities for children with disabilities, and I've donated hair and makeup sessions for family portraits with disadvantaged youth," she says. "Beyond beauty, I use my platform to advocate for women's rights and encourage political engagement, because I believe having an active voice matters. For me, artistry isn't just about aesthetics; it's about empowerment and impact."

Love note: "Madeline has an incredible calm energy that puts everyone at ease in the getting-ready suite, and she's gifted at enhancing natural beauty. I adore working with her, as she's reliable, genuine and fun to be around, and her work speaks for itself."—Jane Handles Weddings

Minister Sharnise Sears: Sharnise Sears

The Knot Ones to Watch Minister Sharnise Sears

Wedding pro details:

Position: Wedding officiant & certified marriage educator
Based in: Ohio
Expertise: Officiant work & marriage counseling
Founded: 2017
Fun fact: Her top advice for couples is to shift their perspective from "just the wedding" to "the wedding and the marriage."
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

As director of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging for the Wedding Industry Professionals Association Cleveland, Sears is always on the ground advocating for inclusivity in the wedding world. She lends her expertise to styled shoots, industry events and marketing initiatives to ensure couples from all backgrounds are celebrated.

"I believe in collaboration over competition, building relationships with other professionals to strengthen our community and create more opportunities for us all to grow," she says. Another important cause that's close to her heart: honoring her couples' relationships before, during and long after the aisle. Sears crafts every ceremony she officiates from scratch, taking care to include their history as a couple, their individual personalities and their cultural backgrounds. She extends this tailored approach to her thoughtful premarital education services, which 70% of her couples choose to use.

Love note: "Sharnise is one of those rare people who leads with both strength and softness. She's deeply professional, genuinely kind and has a heart for service that's felt in everything she does. She advocates for inclusivity in a way that's never performative. She lives it. Her words and actions consistently reflect authenticity, empathy and true respect for all people. She's incredibly thoughtful, listens deeply and creates space for every voice at the table." –Balsam and Blush Photography

Lady Shuckers: Libby Davis

The Knot Ones to Watch Libby Davis of Lady Shuckers

Wedding pro details:

Position: Owner & founder
Based in: Maine
Expertise: Mobile oyster bar & catering
Founded: 2021
Fun fact: Sobriety inspires Davis' personal and professional life.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

While Maine's local aquaculture and sustainable seafood served as the initial catalysts for Davis to start Lady Shuckers, supporting women, minorities and queer people stands strong at the helm of what the business represents.

"We source products from women-owned or women-managed oyster farms in Maine and have a women-led staff to create representation and visibility for underrepresented groups in the industry," says the oyster aficionado. "Having your values tied to your business matters, and it'll help the right people who want to work with you find you, even if your organization is small like ours."

When not cracking open bivalves for grateful wedding guests, Lady Shuckers does its part in protecting and restoring wild shellfish populations by sourcing strictly farmed oysters, an environmentally gentler alternative to wild ones. Plus, its team is constantly on the ground educating people on the importance of sustainable local food systems. As far as a legacy goes, Davis hopes to inspire queer folks who have been through tough times to work hard and follow their passions.

Love note: "We've had wonderful experiences working with Libby and the Lady Shuckers team—they bring a welcoming and fun vibe along with heaps of knowledge and a passion for oysters. In addition to being a champion for the shellfish industry in Maine, Lady Shuckers is an inspiration in its constant innovation and creativity. The team leads with integrity and makes sure that everyone feels included in the party."—Miss Hamill's Hospitality

Lensy Michelle Photography: Lindsey Michelle

Wedding pro details:

Position: Owner
Based in: New York & Massachusetts
Expertise: Photography
Founded: 2019
Fun fact: She's a science nerd with degrees in neuroscience and psychology.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

Michelle's photography style is warm and wonderfully human—radiating authentic joy like the people before her camera. Ensuring couples are themselves and fully celebrated is at the heart of the shutterbug's ethos, and she often serves as an encouraging voice of support when pairs consider bucking tradition to better align with their values and priorities. "Even if these conversations seem tangential to my job as a photographer, they lay a foundation," she says.

The photographer explains that once a couple gets comfortable embracing the personal over the traditional, even in a smaller part of the planning process like an engagement session, it can give them the momentum to extend that ethos to their full celebration. Michelle is queer, Latina and an outspoken advocate for diversity and inclusion in the wedding industry, and she makes that stance clear. Her business offers accessible price options with special consideration for queer and non-citizen to-be-weds accelerating their marriage timeline in response to the political climate. Additionally, she's had a hand in hosting events benefitting LGBTQ+ marriers and founded the Queer Vendor List, a community organizing initiative to gather vendors interested in facilitating free weddings for queer folx.

Love note: "Her devotion to working with queer and nontraditional couples isn't just part of her brand; it's a core value that runs through everything she does. She believes deeply in celebrating people exactly as they are, which comes through in every interaction, image and story she tells through her lens. Lindsey is one of the most intentional, impactful and inspiring photographers in the industry right now. She's not only creating visually arresting work, but actively building a more inclusive, affirming wedding space from the inside out." —Sarue Event Design

Dearly Studio: Jusmine Martin

The Knot Ones to Watch Jusmine Martin of Dearly Studio

Wedding pro details:

Position: Founder & resident justice of the peace
Based in: Massachusetts
Expertise: Wedding venue & officiant work
Founded: 2023
Fun fact: She's inspired by artists, writers and anyone who prioritizes creativity, care and love.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

When Martin was working at a wine bar in 2022, she pitched and ran a Vegas-inspired pop-up during Pride where she legally hitched three happy couples. And she's continued to elevate and celebrate queer love since opening Dearly, a permanent micro-wedding chapel outside of Boston. "It's really important to me that my ethos and ethics are clear from the start, especially as it pertains to things like LGBTQ+ rights," says Martin. She was part of a small team of wedding vendors behind a public party called Queerly Beloved, which married seven queer couples and raised over $4,000 for the Trevor Project, which helps prevent suicide among queer youth.

In addition to offering short, sweet and secular (and simple to book) ceremonies that take care to tell a couple's story, Martin and her company are also deeply woven into the fabric of their neighborhood and local community. They often collaborate with the other small, independent businesses that surround the venue space.

Love note: "Jusmine deserves every ounce of recognition. She's built something that isn't just a venue, but a community space that radiates inclusivity and belonging. Her commitment to supporting all love is not performative: It's real, active and deeply felt. She's someone whose presence elevates everyone around her, and I believe she's on the cusp of making an even bigger impact in our industry. She has created one of the few outwardly spoken, truly inclusive venues in all of New England, and couples leave not just with a beautiful event but with the affirmation that their love is celebrated wholeheartedly." –Castillo Holliday Photo and Film

House of Bernal: Jennifer Bernal

The Knot Ones to Watch Jennifer Bernal of House of Bernal

Wedding pro details:

Position: Founder & creative director
Based in: New York
Expertise: Florals
Founded: 2023
Fun fact: Her daughter and her Dominican roots motivate her.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

"As an immigrant founder, I'm intentional about creating an environment where every team and crew member is respected, paid fairly and credited properly," says Bernal. The florist freely offers her industry intel, from craft tips to pricing logic, championing transparency and inclusivity in the industry. She's against gatekeeping and fights for fair pay, open education and real mentorship for everyone in the wedding biz.

"I also advocate publicly for proper vendor credits and transparent contracts. I use my platforms to spotlight underrepresented pros, so they're seen and hired for their talent," says Bernal, who has spoken at various wedding industry conferences and served on professional boards, among other opportunities. "For couples, that advocacy looks like a culturally fluent design that honors their traditions with care."

Love note: "I've had the pleasure of collaborating with House of Bernal, and my experience with them has been nothing short of exceptional. They're incredibly professional, detail-oriented and truly passionate about creating meaningful, personalized experiences for their clients. What sets them apart in the wedding industry is their ability to blend creativity with seamless execution." –Cortiella Photography

The Innovator The Knot Ones to Watch 2025 Honorees

Where do cutting-edge wedding trends originate? From sharply creative vendors like these that bring original, out-of-the-box ideas to the table. You won't find more imaginative vendors for a wedding.

Absūna: Maddi Haley

The Knot Ones to Watch Maddi Haley of Absuña

Wedding pro details:

Position: Owner & creative director
Based in: Rhode Island
Expertise: Florals
Founded: 2021
Fun fact: Haley has never used roses in a flower arrangement.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

Haley is a master at "the art of noticing," finding inspiration for her florals everywhere from architecture to the way light hits a puddle. The result: botanical compositions that are artistic, expressive, unconventional and wholly original. No two are alike, but all balance refinement with an avant-garde sensibility. They're living sculptures.

"Two big design influences for me are shape and movement, so I'm especially fascinated by the unruliness of how things naturally grow, whether in a garden or an untamed meadow," she says. "There's always something to be learned in nature." Her design process relies on artistic intuition coupled with the current season and surroundings. Sustainability also guides her practice. She skips the floral foam, relies on reusable mechanics as the base for all designs and prioritizes sourcing blooms from local growers, among other tactics.

Love note: "Maddi and her team are kind, professional and create stunning floral arrangements that transform the ceremony, cocktail hour and reception into magical spaces. Their designs are playful and inspired, with a conceptual take on wedding florals that maintain an elevated and organic feel." –Courtney Lee Weddings

Velvet Valley Cakes: Blair Gutierrez

The Knot Ones to Watch Blair Gutierrez of Velvet Valley Cakes

Wedding pro details:

Position: Baker & cake decorator
Based in: New York
Expertise: Wedding cakes
Founded: 2021
Fun fact: One of her first cakes was ordered for Harry Styles when he performed in New York City.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

Gutierrez says she's inspired by all things ornate and vintage, like traditional tattoos and Victorian architecture, and these muses are totally evident in the baker's exceptional wedding cakes. Each has intricate trappings that rival a late-1800s estate. "When I discovered vintage-style cakes, I was obsessed; they felt like edible antiques," she says. "My cakes are bold statements full of character, and they push couples to think of their wedding cake not just as dessert but as part of the overall aesthetic of their event."

Instead of leaning into trends, Gutierrez is fully focused on a highly romantic, nostalgic style that draws from vintage piping traditions, and her care and intentionality comes through. To boot, she's managed to start her own business and establish herself as a pioneer in the vintage/Lambeth cake design style without formal pastry school training.

Love note: "Blair is so easy and lovely to work with. Her work is absolutely stunning. She also has an incredibly delicious product, not just a beautiful one. She's a pioneer in this market of vintage cakes and stays true to them." –Rachel Behar Events

Jess McDole Weddings: Jess McDole

The Knot Ones to Watch Jess McDole Weddings

Wedding pro details:

Position: Owner
Based in: Kentucky
Expertise: Analog photography
Founded: 2019
Fun fact: She's an avid skateboarder.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

We're used to thinking of innovation in terms of tech developments, but McDole is making waves in the world of wedding photography by going back to basics. She photographs her couples solely on analog film formats and also scans her own film, so every shot is intentional and genuine. "I really think it's important to give clients a tailored experience and a gallery that reflects the naturally occurring moments of their individual day," she says. "It's important to not force images that weren't there, to not edit their film to look exactly the same as another gallery of mine, because light and circumstances are ever-changing. That shouldn't be innovative, but I think we're in a time where it is."

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Her process results in nostalgic imagery that's intended to be an heirloom. "I hope my legacy would simply be in the photographs and experience I've created for people on their wedding days," she says. "That their future generations will have a piece of their family history to look back on, even if in 100 years no one knows that I was the photographer. The legacy isn't me but the images."

Love note: "Jess is amazing…great energy on the wedding weekend, a unique eye for detail and passionate. We've always had a great experience with her. I think her style bridges the timeless yet artsy gap." –Wild Heart Events

Hi Def Event Group: Andrew Choung

The Knot Ones to Watch Andrew Choung of Hi Def Event Group

Wedding pro details:

Position: Owner & DJ
Based in: California
Expertise: DJ & production services
Founded: 2018
Fun fact: The name of Choung's business nods to hip-hop and its subcultures, as "def" means "excellent" in the genre's vernacular.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

As DJ Aflex, Choung isn't just playing popular tracks to get your guests on the dance floor—he's curating a personalized set list that goes far beyond the Top 40. He gets deep with couples to truly understand their style and story, and uses those details to select songs (while weaving in niche music meaningful to the lovebirds) and set the pace of the evening, down to the most minute musical cue.

"At my core, I love exploring sounds across genres and cultures," says Choung. "Subcultures are thriving, and I love drawing inspiration from them to create something fresh and meaningful." He's also passionate about offering opportunities to emerging talent to strengthen the industry and keep it current and innovative. "Between couples and their guests, we curate moments that spark emotion and interaction, whether it's a perfectly timed song, a shared dance floor moment or a unique transition that brings everyone together."

Love note: "I've had the pleasure of working with Andrew for the past seven years, and he's always showing up, always delivering and always staying a step ahead of the curve. His consistency and reliability are admirable, but it's his ability to evolve and stay fresh over the years that sets him apart. The fact that so many of us in the wedding industry trust him with our own weddings says everything." —Now & Forever Love

Jason's Film Lab: Jason Lum

Jason Lum of Jason's Film Lab The Knot Ones to Watch

Wedding pro details:

Position: Owner
Based in: Utah
Expertise: Videography
Founded: 2024
Fun fact: He's motivated by donating a portion of his revenue to local charities, like the Humane Society and Nuzzles and Co. (where he adopted his cat).
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

Lum says he's a wedding videographer, but we'd argue he's a full-blown wedding filmmaker. The cameraman holds his work to the same level of polish and vision as he would a feature film. He studies different techniques and tools as well as the anatomy of his own favorite movies to shape wedding mementos worthy of the silver screen.

"I truly believe that it's possible to make a wedding video that rivals the quality and emotional impact of a movie you see in the theater," says Lum, who adeptly emulates the look of 35mm and Super 8mm films without the higher cost of the real thing. "This is a mindset that might sound a little bit crazy, because how can a one-man team create something to that level? But it's a goal that I'm constantly chasing." No matter how popular he becomes, he'll always craft every movie himself from start to finish. "In today's world, there are so many businesses trying to find ways to automate everything to maximize scaling, but they sacrifice creativity, passion and human connection by doing so," he says. And as if his artistic digital rendering of a wedding isn't enough, Lum also prints custom zines for his couples, filled with still shots from their films as a sweet memento (two copies—one for them and one for him).

Love note: "Jason has mastered the balance between artistry and professionalism. His eye for natural, genuine moments—paired with his ability to blend into the background—makes him an invaluable asset to any wedding. He doesn't just film an event; he captures emotion, ambiance and those fleeting, candid exchanges that couples treasure most. Jason's work not only inspires couples through his beautiful, authentic storytelling but also empowers them to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. He creates an experience that's accessible, genuine and truly tailored to the couple's vision." –Weddings With Athena

Few & Fahr Studio: Eliza Fahrenholz

Wedding pro details:

Position: Designer & owner
Based in: Texas
Expertise: Stationery design & wedding branding
Founded: 2021
Fun fact: She loves a good spreadsheet to optimize her organization and fuel her brain's logical side.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

With deep roots in graphic design and an agency background, Fahrenholz creates nontraditional print designs for couples with uncommon visions. "I approach designs through the lens of true branding, just like you might find at your favorite local restaurant or boutique hotel," she says. "I'm inspired by the world of hospitality—restaurants, hotels, cocktail lounges and so on. I love taking in the atmosphere of these spaces and seeing how the design contributes to the effect."

Fahrenholz began her business after noticing a lack of edgy, funky designs that truly push the envelope (pun intended) in the wedding stationery space. She takes risks but also cherishes the responsibility of crafting paper pieces that set the tone for a couple's celebration. They reliably earn the response, "I've never seen something like this before."

Love note: "Every time we've worked with Eliza, she has exceeded all expectations. We're constantly amazed by her designs and the unique creativity that perfectly brands each event, highlighting special nuances in the couple's love story. Our couples have been completely wowed by their experience with her." –Ruét Photo

Lavish Haus Events: Samantha O'Donnell

Samantha O'Donnell of Lavish Haus Events The Knot Ones to Watch

Wedding pro details:

Position: Founder & creative director
Based in: Pennsylvania
Expertise: Planning
Founded: 2021
Fun fact: Lavish Haus started as a combo interior design and events business.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

"The most impactful moments on a wedding day come from intentional design choices, with each detail thoughtfully created to reflect the couple's unique journey," says O'Donnell. The planner doesn't just consider design in an aesthetic sense, but rather in a way that accounts for the special moments and memories of a couple's love story. She brings an innate curiosity to the process, taking note of special words the couple shared, the location of their first meeting and personal anecdotes to bring their event design to life authentically. Despite this layered, complex approach, she manages to nail every detail and logistic with precision and polish.

"Our innovation lies in our bold presence and design choices," she says. "We're not afraid to mix patterns and textures in unexpected ways, while still maintaining a refined and timeless aesthetic. This balance of boldness and elegance is what makes our work stand out."

Love note: "I've collaborated with Samantha on multiple weddings, and she's consistently an exceptional partner: calm under pressure, prepared and genuinely collaborative. Samantha has a rare blend of editorial vision and logistical rigor: She creates layered, design-forward environments while protecting a timeline that feels effortless for the couple and the vendor team." –Bianca Tang Photography

Nectar & Vessel: Naomi Azriel

The Knot Ones to Watch Naomi Azriel of Nectar & Vessel

Wedding pro details:

Position: Owner & creative director
Based in: New Hampshire
Expertise: Florals
Founded: 2019
Fun fact: A spontaneous move to an organic farm in the Berkshires sparked her flower journey.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

Azriel's design process is ceremonial and sacred: She lights beeswax candles, plays high-vibe music and anoints each vessel with orange-blossom water as a nectar blessing. Then, she takes an intentional pause before filling a container with blossoms. "I view designing flowers for weddings from a 'temple keeper' perspective," she says. "I'm truly curating and holding the sacred space for your weddings behind the scenes through the botanical artistry that we create for you." The first question she asks couples: "What is your desired feeling state?" From there, she'll create her signature evocative arrangements dispersed within produce-heavy tablescapes that evoke a Dutch Master's painting. (Other florists consistently tap Azriel for her skill with styling fruit with flowers, by the way.)

"By creating one-of-a-kind floral designs for every table and every space at each wedding, we provide an opportunity for people to roam around like they're at an art show, inherently creating connection and conversation," she says. To create these designs, Azriel sources 95% of her materials from local farms and women-owned businesses, and implements sustainable methods across her practice.

Love note: "Nectar & Vessel is a true visionary in the world of floral. When I saw their work, I was instantly inspired. Naomi created one of my favorite bridal bouquets [I've photographed in] my career. My interactions with her team were lovely, and she truly cares about her craft and clients." —Sarah Lord Photography

Studio Dorothy: Lizzie Wheeler

The Knot Ones to Watch Lizzie Wheeler of Studio Dorothy

Wedding pro details:

Position: Owner
Based in: New York
Expertise: Vintage & archival designer bridal fashion
Founded: 2024
Fun fact: Wheeler bought her wedding dress, a spring 2019 Alexander McQueen runway piece, over text message. It was $647, located across the country, final sale and fit perfectly.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

"There's an incredible amount of amazing clothing that already exists in the world," says Wheeler. "I'm doing my best to unearth some of these hidden gems that are sitting in closets or in storage and help them find their right person." Studio Dorothy is named after Wheeler's fashionable nana and based out of the NYC studio apartment where she lived in the 1980s.

Wheeler has over a decade of experience in luxury womenswear and a knack for the vintage market. She uses what she's learned in both fields to curate a collection of vintage and rare recent designers at an average of 70% below the retail price; she focuses on natural fibers, such as silk and cotton, and pieces produced in the US or Europe. Whether a client is finding a frock for an engagement shoot or the wedding itself, Wheeler wants them to feel a sense of play and joy while assembling their aspirational trousseau. "I made a business based around the feeling of playing dress-up with my friends, and that's exactly what it feels like to this day," she says.

Love note: "I've had the pleasure of shooting a few vintage pieces from the Studio Dorothy collection, and I was impressed by Lizzie's eye, both in the items themselves as well as her styling of the looks we photographed. The pieces in her collection are by turns surprising, classic and playful—something for any type of celebration." –Sylvie Rosokoff

The Connector The Knot Ones to Watch 2025 Honorees

Wedding vendors like these are focused on community and building relationships, both with their clients and with colleagues, to get back to the heart of celebrations: love. These The Knot vendors embody warmth and bridge building.

Carleton Socials: Caroline Carleton

Wedding pro details:

Position: Owner
Based in: New Hampshire
Expertise: Content creation
Founded: 2018
Fun fact: It only took her 24 hours to get her business up and running.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

Carleton's father was diagnosed with Alzheimer's just before her wedding day. Through this difficult time, the content creator learned the importance of preserving memories—not just the highlights, but the quieter moments and the connections that make a wedding so special.

"I'm not just documenting a day—I'm telling a story that's built on relationships," she says. "For my couples, I focus on capturing the candid, in-between moments that highlight the connection between them and their guests—the inside jokes, the hugs, the laughter on the dance floor. These details preserve not just what happened, but how it felt to be surrounded by love and community."

Besides honoring the connection between couples and their loved ones, Carleton makes it a point to work seamlessly with photographers, videographers and other vendors, ensuring her work is the perfect complement to theirs. She's always exploring new editing and storytelling styles to suit every couple's love in a timeless way. You can tell by how her content flows (the way each video clip is shot and collaged with others), how comfortable she makes her couples and how aptly she captures their joy. And while she's acting as a keeper of wedding memories, she's also putting together a soon-to-come fundraiser in partnership with the Alzheimer's Association.

Love note: "I've had the pleasure of working with Caroline on multiple events, and she's consistently a standout professional and a team player—always positive, collaborative and ready to support fellow vendors. She has an uplifting energy and brings a sense of calm and joy to every event. She stands out in the wedding industry not only for her talent and attention to detail, but also for her professionalism and ability to build strong relationships with clients and colleagues alike." –Ashley Lynn Events

Molly In The Sky: Natalia Kovolis

The Knot Ones to Watch Natalia Kovolis of Molly In The Sky

Wedding pro details:

Position: Creative director
Based in: Florida
Expertise: Florals
Founded: 2018
Fun fact: In what she calls her "señora" era, she's working on her baking skills (she makes a mean cinnamon roll).
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

Kovolis' special connection with her late sister, Molly, is what inspired her to go into florals full time. Her business serves as a tribute to her younger sibling and a reminder that beautiful things don't need to last forever to be meaningful. Her designs have soul, and you can feel the care behind each of them, likely because of the big heart of the florist herself.

"We aim to give our designs emotional resonance, to create concepts and visions rooted in the couple's story and the way they want themselves and their guests to feel." Connection shapes how Kovolis moves through the wedding industry: from driving four hours to source a specific flower a couple adores to always being open and willing to share tips with other florists. "I extend a hand to other vendors who may feel lost and full of questions, like I once did," she says. "I love creating with others. It fuels and inspires me."

Love note: "Working with Natalia has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. Her attention to detail, deep empathy for her clients and commitment to pushing creative boundaries make her stand out in an industry full of talent. She's one of those rare artists who intuitively understands the emotional language of flowers and channels that into breathtaking, meaningful work. She centers the couples' stories in her designs and listens attentively to their vision. That client-first ethos fosters trust and connection." –Nicole Chapman Design

Nikki Baker Photography: Nicolette (Nikki) Baker

Nikki Baker Photography The Knot Ones to Watch

Wedding pro details:

Position: Owner
Based in: Arizona
Expertise: Documentary & editorial photography
Founded: 2018
Fun fact: Baker's work went viral when one of her couples made a TikTok about their wonderful experience with her.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

"People have weddings for a lot of different reasons—to be together, to be with their closest friends and family who have supported their love," says Baker, a mostly self-taught photographer. "A big part of my job is being able to read a room and support my couples in the ways they want (and in others they don't even know they need). Being able to document human connection in general is my job, and I try to make sure I get all of those moments that will matter to the couple years and years down the line."

Baker's couples usually say that what they enjoy most about working with her is how she makes them feel, plus how their authentic relationship shines through her images. Her connection with her subjects stays strong long after the wedding day. Many reach out to her again to photograph other significant life events. Additionally, Baker cultivates connection through Under the Sun Creative Club, an organization she founded where photographers come together to share tips and build community.

Love note: "Nikki Baker doesn't just capture a love story; she gets candid, subtle moments. Her level of professionalism, luxury client experience and artistry is in a category of its own. Nikki is a joy to work with as a fellow wedding professional and to every couple." –Bridal Artistry Collective

Cóllectives By Diana: Diana Lin

Cóllectives By Diana The Knot Ones to Watch

Wedding pro details:

Position: Founder & creative director
Based in: New York
Expertise: Planning
Founded: 2019
Fun fact: Lin began planning events alongside her now-husband during their dating years, and it was planning their own wedding that inspired her to transition from interior design into the wedding industry.
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

Lin is a luxury wedding planner. And according to her, luxury is about thoughtfulness, emotion and intentional design—not flash or excess. Every element she selects for a couple's celebration is thoughtfully curated, reflecting their roots and relationship. While she's often inspired by fashion, travel and architecture, Lin is most motivated by connecting with people—their stories, their traditions.

"Connection is at the heart of everything I do," she says. "Many of my clients become lifelong friends. I love getting to know them so I can bring their stories to life in a way that truly reflects who they are. I'm equally proud of the collaborations with peers and vendors." Helping couples weave their cultural backgrounds into their nuptials is also a priority. She continuously builds a diverse network of BIPOC-owned businesses, encouraging couples to work with vendors who align with their values—whether that's inclusivity, sustainability or cultural representation.

"I hope to create weddings that feel authentic, inclusive and deeply meaningful, and to be remembered as someone who elevated the experience for couples while shaping a more welcoming, representative industry," she says.

Love note: "Working with Diana Lin has been one of the most refreshing collaborations I've had in this industry. She brings a clear creative vision to every project, but what really sets her apart is how precise and intentional she is. Diana takes time to understand each couple on a personal level: who they are, what matters to them and how they want their day to feel. Her events always feel authentic and inclusive, never cookie-cutter. She's especially sensitive to cultural traditions and modern family dynamics, and she approaches every event with care and respect."–Unique Lapin Photography

Films By Em: Emily Brown

Wedding pro details:

Position: Owner
Based in: New York
Expertise: Videography
Founded: 2019
Fun fact: Beans are very special to her—genuinely!
Learn more: The Knot Vendor Marketplace, Instagram, website

Watching one of Brown's wedding movies feels like you're there in real time and among friends. She catches the silly side conversations, awkward moments and dance-floor karaoke sessions that some might overlook (or overlay with emotional music). Basically, people being themselves.

"I view weddings in a simpler way than most: To me, weddings are an opportunity to understand people and capture connection," she says. "I think social media and societal pressures have really complicated weddings, and take us further from what's important. I capture people existing as they are, and it happens to be on their wedding day." Connection is everything in Brown's work. "It's more valuable to have a conversation with a guest than to get a nicely composed shot," she says. "There are so many talented artists in the industry—every possible idea has been invented at this point—so all we can do is tap into who we are and share it in an authentic, honest and vulnerable way."

Love note: "Emily takes a true documentary approach. She fully allows couples to be themselves without interrupting or manufacturing moments. This approach makes her films feel incredibly intimate and honest. You can tell she honors the energy of each couple and never follows a formula. Her films are true time capsules and feel so raw and real to each couple's personality." –Georgie Morley Photography

The Knot Ones to Watch 2024

Don't start Googling "wedding vendors near me" before you check out our 2024 Ones to Watch honorees. These wedding pros should be at the top of your wedding vendor checklist, from sustainable wedding planners, to new wedding venues, to officiants that truly celebrate you. (By the way, The Knot Vendor Manager can help you shortlist, compare and save your fave vendor options in one place.)

Ahna Han, NY: Florist Ahna Han, who established her business in 2019, evokes emotion through her designs that reflect each couple's individuality. She believes transparency and educating fellow florists is necessary to the success of the industry at large.
Arizmendi Events, NY: Florists Ianina (Yana) Nikolaeva and Diego Arizmendi seek inspiration from fashion, beauty and nature to inform their unforgettable designs. They've been creating "dreamscapes that are just ahead of the trends" since 2020.
Brittany Boote, PA: Photographer Brittany Boote, who established her business in 2017, focuses on capturing the true essence of a person. Her commitment to authenticity and evoking genuine emotions sets her apart.
deMelis Atelier, CT: Melissa Lynn Oddo, who established wedding dress alterations business deMelis Atelier in 2018, is a skilled craftsperson who accommodates marriers of all different body types.
DJ Chan Don, MD: Donnie Young began her wedding DJ business in 2018, but also started a nonprofit that supports other musicians through mental health advocacy.
Drew Coleman Films, NC: Videographer Drew Coleman founded his business in 2020 when he was still in college. Drawing inspiration from his parents' "hearts for service, unrelenting work ethic and sheer indefatigability," Drew creates wedding videos that stir up deep emotions.
Flour House Cakes & Co., MI: Baker Lincoln Alexander sources ideas from his Caribbean roots, his health sciences degree and his love for textile design and love for travel. The third-gen baker has been crafting cool cakes at Flour House since 2018.
Hawthorne & Poppy Events, TX: Wedding planner Amy Küntz, who founded her business in 2020, believes that "kindness, teamwork and creativity go a long way." She draws on those virtues when planning weddings that incorporate the five senses.
Hype Queen Media, MO: Wedding content creator Leshay Reed started her business in 2022 and has since been capturing unforgettable wedding moments via iPhone. Within 24 hours of the wedding, Leshay sends videos couples can share on social media while they eagerly await their photographer's and videographer's work.
Ironic Reports, NY: Andrew Leavitt is a wedding meteorologist, so he can provide context and actionable insights about the weather to couples and planners based on science. He established his unmatched business in 2020.
John Campbell Events and Design, FL: Wedding Planner John Campbell, who began his business in 2017, becomes "invested in the human beings behind every project." That care and consideration extends to both the couple and their guests.
Kait Peña, NY: Photographer Kaitlin (Kait) Peña's drive for storytelling is rooted in her past as a photojournalist, when she documented life in Iraq during the ISIS occupation. As a wedding photographer since 2018, she reveals the beauty hidden in the overlooked and unexpected.
Keen Events, OR: Wedding planner Elise Handler is committed to sustainable and eco-friendly practices across her business, founded in 2017. Her expertise helps couples minimize their celebration's carbon footprint.
Modern Love Productions, FL: Established in 2017, Modern Love Productions is a team of biracial wife-and-wife videographers (Michele Harvey and Osiris Rojas) that wants couples to feel represented and celebrated. The pair also donation matches contributions their couples give to selected charities that aid youth and homeless women and children.
Nearlywed Coaching, CO: Tirzah Stein helps couples build a strong foundation for their relationship through secular, judgment-free premarital coaching. Established in 2021, Nearlywed Coaching is inclusive of all couples.
Nikki Daskalakis, MD: Photographer Nikki Daskalakis has a candid elegance to her work that's truly outstanding. Before establishing her business in 2018, she worked as a clinical forensic social worker—it's why she prioritizes presence and authenticity.
SG3 Events, MD: Wedding planner Sarah Nickens is on a mission to consistently produce weddings characterized by peace, order and breathtaking beauty. She established her business in 2019.
Sonic Sommelier, CA: Keanna O'Quinn has been providing music curation services through Sonic Sommelier since 2020. She uses the science of sound to curate an immersive auditory experience for your wedding.
Swoon Union, ME: Officiant Michelle LaBuwi, who founded Swoon Union in 2018, is known for how well she interviews her couples, ensuring she can craft ultra-personalized, heartfelt ceremonies.
TableMade, GA: Tammy L. Noel offers exquisite tablescape pieces through her rentals business, which was established in 2018. She's also known to go above and beyond to provide an incredible client experience, from the design meeting to the breakdown.
Together Events, NY: Since 2016, wedding planners Justine Broughal and Maryam Shariat Mudrick have focused on creating inclusive and socially conscious celebrations that disrupt heteronormative wedding traditions.
Tyler Varnell, CA: Since 2017, Tyler Varnell has been doing it all as a wedding musician. He plays piano and saxophone while mixing tunes as a DJ and emceeing a reception.
Veronica Joy Events, NY: Wedding planner Veronica Joy Gurl has been producing luxuriously fun celebrations with Veronica Joy Events since 2016. She's been called an orchestra conductor, a positive force and a best friend by her couples.
Vidhi Dattani Designs, NY: Since 2019, Vidhi Dattani has been renowned for her meticulously handcrafted stationery and delicate, yet vibrant paintings.
Willow Hill, CT: Nicole Wineland–Thomson Fisher and Greg Fisher established their wedding venue, Willow Hill, in 2023. The homey, tucked-away locale offers a private-estate feel and bespoke guest experience.
Willow House Beauty, NY: Michelle Schultz's aim as a hair and makeup artist is to make marriers of all genders, races and orientations feel like their best selves on their wedding day. Her diverse and talented team has been pushing that mission forward since 2019.
Your Big Day Atl, GA: Deianna Hamilton likes to "bypass any fluff" and focus on the deep, meaningful stuff that resonates with couples. She established her wedding planning business, Your Big Day Atl, in 2020.

The Knot Ones to Watch 2023

2023 was the inaugural year of Ones to Watch. Here's a look back at the cohort of deserving wedding vendors we honored. You should definitely consider these names as you're choosing wedding vendors, so fire up a wedding vendor inquiry template and get to it.

Afrik Armando, PA: Beyond photographing couples, the ability to coach couples with care motivates expert photographer Afrik Armando, who founded his eponymous company in 2017.
Alternative Standards, CA: Erica "Gem" Benson has been motivated to alter the standards of wedding photography since 2018, approaching couples with a warm energy to bring out the varied ways love takes shape.
Angelica & Co. Weddings, MD: Angelica Laws founded her company in 2017 and is motivated to build human connections beyond just planning beautiful events.
Blue Box Bakery, WA: Christina Kim Mathis is a Washington-based wedding cake baker motivated by high-quality customization. The pro founded Blue Box Bakery in 2016.
Bo Shim Photography, NY: Capturing photos that are timeless and honor a couple's heritage is what motivates Bo Shim. The photographer and The Knot vendor, who founded her company in 2016, looks to the past to inform her approach.
East Made Co., MD: The ability to create art is what inspires wedding planner Elizabeth Gopal each day. The pro founded East Made Co. in 2015, and is known for her deep understanding of the role each wedding vendor plays.
Emerson James Rental, VA + SC: Elisa Bricker has been on a mission to create innovative designs since 2017. Her specialty rental company, Emerson James Rental, offers attractive and custom pieces crafted just for the business.
Everbloom Floral Design, CA: In 2017, Erice McNeff founded Everbloom Floral Design. The expert wedding florist finds motivation in the mission to provide polished professionalism to all she connects with.
Fulton Events, PA: Caitlin Fulton Kuchemba of Fulton Events is motivated by the endless possibilities in creating heavily personalized events for her clients. The planner founded her business in 2015.
Hannah Forsberg, GA: This pro is enamored with the ability to create visual narratives. Hannah Forsberg is an expert wedding photographer who founded her business in 2016.
HauteFêtes Fine Weddings & Events, CA: For Dani Blasena, weddings are a balance of discernment and detail. The ethos behind her business, founded in 2016, is to never sacrifice seamless execution or impeccable design.
House of Joy, OH: Samantha Leenheer believes in the importance of embracing flexibility and founded her company in 2016 to do just that. House of Joy is determined to make every client feel seen, like their story is told.
IntriCakes, CA: The pursuit of innovation drives Jenny Vu-Tran. The expert baker owns IntriCakes, founded in 2015, and brings a high-tech approach to her work using 3D printing and projection mapping.
Jordan Jeanty Studios, TX: The things that motivate Jordan Jeanty are as simple as they are profound: He wants to care and grow. The expert videographer began his business in 2017 and is known for his heartfelt approach.
Julian Leaver Events, TX: The ability to offer distinct perspectives to couples is what motivates planner Julian Leaver of Julian Leaver Events, founded in 2016. His noteworthy organization helps bring complicated events together.
K. Hancock Design, WA: Kiara Hancock loves that her role as a wedding floral designer affords her the opportunity to create installations that evoke emotion. The expert founded K. Hancock Design in 2015.
K. LaFleur Films, NE: The chance to empower female filmmakers motivates and inspires much of Kelly LaFleur's work. The wedding pro is a videographer and owner of K. LaFleur Films, founded in 2016.
Le Petit Privé, NY: Xin Huang is a wedding planner who's motivated by the importance of fostering mutual respect during the wedding journey. Huang has made a name for herself as the owner of Le Petite Privé, founded in 2016.
Megan Pettus Films, AL: Megan Pettus is inspired by creating stories with soul. The owner of Megan Pettus Films, Pettus is a videographer who founded her company in 2016 and is also known for working well with other vendors.
Modern Rebel, NY: Amy Shack Egan, who founded Modern Rebel in 2015, wants to be a "guiding light" for couples, curating a celebration that'll ultimately deepen their connection and relationship.
Pop & Drop, TX: Wedding decor expert Kelsey Butler Harrison is motivated to balance design with sustainability. The pro founded Pop & Drop in 2019 and has been making waves ever since.
Roots Floral Design, KY: Floral designer Kaytee Stice is all about creating space for relationships. This The Knot wedding vendor founded Roots Floral Design in 2016 and has been uplifting her industry peers for years now.
Rudney Novaes Photography, DC: Rudney Novaes is motivated by the mission to create with purpose, resulting in images that tell stories with editorial flair since founding his business in 2016.
Shean Strong Design, GA: Shean Strong is a wedding floral designer who founded his business in 2017. At the core, Strong is grateful for his ability to educate other folks in the industry and create innovative designs.
Sok Vision, DC: For husband-and-wife duo Erin and Steve Sok, it's about creating space for all. The videographer couple owns Sok Vision, founded in 2017.
XO Moreau, TX: "You know what would be weird?" That's the question Alex asks herself each time she starts planning a new wedding. XO Moreau has been pushing creative boundaries since 2018.