The Knot Ones to Watch: Meet 2024's Most Notable Emerging Wedding Pros
Finding the perfect team to bring your wedding vision to life is no small task. But how do you find the right wedding vendors near you to help you plan a wedding that's uniquely your own? That's where The Knot Ones to Watch comes in.
According to our internal research, couples book an average of 14 different vendors to make their celebration happen (Psst: Here's a wedding vendor checklist of every type of pro you could book). So how do you decide which pros are the best pros for your unique needs?
Among the many talented pros across the country, we've scouted a cohort of 27 especially outstanding businesses we know will inspire your wedding planning. Without further ado, here are our 2024 Ones to Watch honorees.
About The Knot Ones to Watch: What It Is | How It Came to Be | Categories | The Advocate 2024 Honorees | The Innovator 2024 Honorees | The Connector 2024 Honorees | 2023 Honorees
What Is The Knot's One to Watch?
The Knot Ones to Watch is our list of 2024's most notable emerging wedding pros. Notably, we sought values-driven wedding pros who are pushing the industry forward through their commitment to advocacy, innovation and connection. Our honorees are the future of weddings.
One of the most fulfilling parts of researching this year's honorees was seeing how many of them founded their businesses during the peak of the pandemic. The innovation and beauty they were able to foster is nothing short of astounding.
How The Knot Ones to Watch Came to Be
Given that there are thousands of wedding professionals across the US, you might wonder how we landed on these specific standout businesses. These parameters guided us in our search for rising talent across all categories.
Requirements for consideration:
- Fewer than eight years in business in the wedding industry.
- Have a cutting-edge, authentic and creative approach to their field.
- Further vetted through reviews from industry peers and colleagues.
- Vetted by a nine-person committee made up of six folks from The Knot and three esteemed industry experts.
- Well-respected and aligned with the editorial policy (and core values) of The Knot.
Ones to Watch Categories
All of the top wedding vendors honored in The Knot Ones to Watch fall into one of three categories based on the characteristics they possess.
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 everyone to thrive.
2024 Ones to Watch Honorees: The Advocate
Not only do these wedding vendors care about providing their clients with exceptional services, but they also care about how the work gets done. They approach their businesses with the aim of making the wedding industry more equitable, inclusive and mindful.
Keen Events: Elise Handler
"The average wedding produces 400 pounds of waste," says Elise, whose business is dedicated to eco-friendly planning. She helps couples minimize their wedding's carbon footprint and says she hopes "more vendors commit to implementing sustainable practices. If we can inspire others to follow and be more mindful and intentional with their planning, that would be the greatest legacy."
All about this pro:
- Based in: Oregon
- Expertise: Planning
- Founded: December 2017
- Fun fact: Elise named her business after her dog.
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "She keeps sustainability at the forefront of all of her weddings. She's innovative and isn't afraid to try new things." – Till Death Do We Adventure
- "Elise is a great advocate for her clients and fellow vendors alike." – Songbird Floristry
Willow House Beauty: Michelle Schultz
"We are not a bridal hair and makeup business," says Michelle. "We are a beauty company for all couples who want to feel like their best selves for their wedding. Feeling great is something all folks across the gender spectrum deserve. I'm proud of having a team that reflects the diversity and inclusivity that Willow House portrays in its work. Our team is made up of people of all genders, the LGBTQIA+ community and folks from different backgrounds." Looking ahead, Michelle hopes to continue making the wedding industry more diverse.
All about this pro:
- Based in: New York
- Expertise: Hair and Makeup
- Founded: January 2019
- Words to live by: "We are in the business of love, and love has no gender or race."
- Learn More: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "She is inclusive, kind and does stunning work. My clients are always happy and feel confident after their trials and after their wedding is complete. Her team is professional and they are also just cool as heck." – The Privilege is Mine
- "I absolutely adore her. I would fly her team all over the world if the decision were up to me for my clients. There's no one better. There's no one better." – Davis Row
John Campbell Events and Design: John Campbell
John is on a mission to inspire people "to be dedicated to kindness and compassion." Tensions and expectations can run high during wedding planning, he says, but it's important that the journey be joyful. "I become invested in the human beings behind every project." That includes both the couple and their guests. "Are there spaces or situations that might make someone uncomfortable? Have we thought through the guest experience in a way that sets them up to enjoy themselves as much as possible?" This care and consideration is the central principle in his business.
All about this pro:
- Based in: Florida
- Expertise: Planning
- Founded: January 2017
- Motivated by: Fostering trust
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "John has made such an impact, not only on his clients, but on the people who he works with. He is as kind and caring to each wedding vendor as he is to his clients. He puts the same attention to each vendor's needs and makes sure they're also getting the same level of service. He's gentle in his approach to his clients, but also firm about what's in their best interest. And he's always putting their best interest first." – Lauren Galloway Photography
- "John is one of the kindest planners that we have the privilege to work with. He makes it a point to treat everyone as an important part of the wedding day. (As they are!)" – Namesake Creative
Modern Love Productions: Michele Harvey and Osiris Rojas
Michele and Osiris are committed to bringing a "fresh approach to a space that's often overtly traditional," they say. "As biracial wife-and-wife videographers, our goal is for all couples to feel seen, represented and celebrated in our work." Giving back is also at the core of their business. "We have a donation matching system. If our couples donate to one of our selected charities—helping youth and homeless women and children—we match it," they say.
All about this pro:
- Based in: Florida
- Expertise: Videography
- Founded: August 2017
- Fun fact: A David Bowie song inspired their business name.
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "Part of their magic is being a married couple: wives who work together. It's wonderful for all couples, but extra-special for queer couples. They understand the nuances of queer weddings and relationships. When you work with them you know you will get an amazing, authentic, and creative wedding film that showcases the energy and joy of your wedding. On the day of the wedding, they are so easy to work with, I often forget they are there, which is what you want in an excellent video company, they capture the details and special moments without making it about them or taking up space. They seek out the details and special moments and work so well together and with the photo team. " – Jove Meyer
- "They are easy to work with, collaborative and a fun team to be around. They stand out with their heartfelt and creative videography skills but also as wedding creatives who embrace diversity and inclusivity on all fronts. It's a breath of fresh air working with them." – Kylee Yee
Nearlywed Coaching: Tirzah Stein
Tirzah's goal is to help nearlyweds plan a ceremony "outside of the traditional confines of what society says a ceremony should be." She doesn't just care about a couple's nuptials, but also about helping them build a strong foundation to their relationship through premarital coaching that offers judgment-free support. She says, "Many couples are happy to find this service without having to go through a religious institution."
All about this pro:
- Based in: Colorado
- Expertise: Officiant and Coaching
- Founded: September 2021
- Words to live by: "Not everyone getting married identifies as a bride."
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "Communication is key in this business, and Tirzah has perfected the combination of professionalism and approachability. Nearlywed Coaching serves their clients and their communities beautifully, and in a world that loves to divide, Nearlywed Coaching aims to bring people together. She's throwing caution to the wind and building a business (and community) that doesn't conform to norms but encourages individuality." – Kaitlin Shea Weddings
- "She is the definition of inclusive. She is kind, approachable, and offering real services that our clients can benefit from. Nearlywed Coaching stood out to me in the wedding industry because of their authentic approach to their business and it is filling a need within the wedding industry in helping our clients have successful marriages." – LP Creative Events
deMelis Atelier: Melissa Lynn Oddo
In addition to growing her own alterations business, Melissa is committed to supporting the wedding dress industry as a whole through Stitched Collective. "It's a community focused on connection, education and awareness for the sewing trades," she says. "We really try to make our craft visible to both clients and retailers alike and show people that wedding dress alterations shouldn't be in the shadows," she says. "It's hard work, but tailoring has been slowly dying. If I see that needle move in the other direction, I would be so proud of that legacy."
All about this pro:
- Based in: Connecticut
- Expertise: Wedding Dress Alterations
- Founded: August 2018
- Motivated by: "Bringing the industry into the 21st century with modern flair."
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "She leads with the highest level of integrity, professionalism, education and positivity. What I love most about Melissa is her demeanor, creativity, and level of service. As someone working closely with body various types, styles, and sizes, she has the ability to calm and educate her clients on the services she provides and how this impacts them and their experience. She works diligently to fine-tune her craft and always places her work and clients in, literally, the most trusted hands." – Jubilee Events
- "Melissa is a core leader in wedding alterations and tailoring. She is building community for those within the trade." – Esther Lee, Deputy Editor, The Knot
Together Events: Justine Broughal and Maryam Shariat Mudrick
Justine and Maryam are focused on creating inclusive and socially conscious celebrations that disrupt heteronormative wedding traditions. "By creatively rethinking the status quo and sourcing vendors thoughtfully, we carve our path in a more equitable way," they say. "We celebrate partnership, not patriarchy, and ensure our clients and collaborators are actively invited to engage their full selves in the planning process."
All about this pro:
- Based in: New York
- Expertise: Planning
- Founded: December 2016
- Motivated by: "The hope that the world we build will outshine the one that we leave behind."
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "Everyone deserves to feel seen, welcome and uplifted, and their team makes this a top priority. Every wedding or project I've worked on with Together Events has been a huge success because of the dedication, care and kindness they put into the planning process." – Karen Obrist
- "They are voices of passion and inclusion in the wedding industry. They are hardworking, open, kind, talented and driven to create a healthier industry and world." – Sarah Bode-Clark Photography
DJ Chan Don: Donnie Young
In addition to serving couples as a DJ, Donnie is also committed to supporting other musicians through mental health advocacy. "A branch of my business is a nonprofit focused on mental health for women in entertainment," she says. "It's a passion project of mine since I have so many friends who are in all areas of entertainment. We are all experiencing the same issues in some form. It's meant to be a community to help guide others and be a safe space to let it all out."
All about this pro:
- Based in: Maryland
- Expertise: Music
- Founded: December 2018
- Motivated by: "Showing that talent knows no gender."
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "It's always important to me to find a DJ who can balance out the dynamic of the guests like she does. She has so much potential within the wedding and event industry." – B Astonished Events
- "Donnie is a versatile and creative force in the industry. She's a pro who contains multitudes—a DJ, a classically trained pianist, a mental-health advocate and an educator." – Kim Forrest, Senior Editor, The Knot
2024 Ones to Watch Honorees: The Connector
Amid the stress of wedding planning, is it possible to have fun? 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.
Swoon Union: Michelle LaBuwi
"A guest once approached me after a ceremony and said my voice was so soothing, she felt like she was listening to her sleep sounds app. She proceeded to share about her recent divorce and said the ceremony gave her hope for finding future love," says Michelle, who is both a wedding officiant and ceremony consultant. Even if couples don't have her officiate, Michelle can still ghostwrite a one-of-a-kind ceremony that, she says, "lets their love story, values, intentions and dreams shine."
All about this pro:
- Based in: Maine
- Expertise: Officiant
- Founded: January 2018
- Fun fact: A newspaper column about love inspired her business name.
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "She radiates positive energy and is fascinated by people, which makes her a wonderful interviewer. It also helps her craft beautiful ceremonies for her couples." – Nicole Mower Events
- "Michelle's ceremonies often bring guests (and vendors) to tears and remind everyone of the power of true love. Michelle has an outstanding and notable passion both in her work and ability to connect with others. She cares deeply for what she does and is extremely experienced. Michelle helps couples slow down and really acknowledge what is happening and how to express and celebrate their love with their guests." – Kara Patten Events
Ahna Han: Ahna Han
Ahna is keenly aware of the emotions her designs evoke. She views flowers as a "beautiful through line that furthers a couple's narrative and reflects their individuality." She shares that perspective when mentoring fledgling designers. Ahna is focused on "pulling back the curtain" on floristry. She believes transparency and educating fellow florists is necessary to the success of the industry at large.
All about this pro:
- Based in: New York
- Expertise: Florals
- Founded: May 2019
- Motivated by: "Unveiling the secret life of wedding flowers."
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "Having a background in fashion design, she has a has a keen eye for detail and style. I love her approach with honest feedback and suggestions while taking your whole event from beginning to end into consideration when creating her designs. Not only is she the kindest soul, but she radiates positivity onto those around her." – Diwan by Design
- "Besides being just an absolute sweet angel, Ahna has become a highly sought out florist because of her truly unique, nontraditional designs. Her talent and professionalism stand out so much." – Chellise Michael Photography
Your Big Day ATL: Deianna Hamilton
"There would be no wedding without the union, so focus on the union." This mantra guides Deianna's approach to working with couples. The planner likes to "bypass any fluff" and focus on the deep, meaningful stuff that resonates with couples. It's how she sets about planning events. "I want couples to build their relationship to ensure they'll have more than a beautiful wedding."
All about this pro:
- Based in: Georgia
- Expertise: Planning
- Founded: June 2020
- Fun fact: She studied journalism in college.
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "In an industry that can appear closed off, Deianna radiates warmth and approachability. As a Black woman in the South, she is fighting for representation in an industry that has traditionally done a lackluster job of showcasing minorities. No matter the odds stacked against her, she's tackling her career goals with grace and tact." – Helaine
- "She is professional, thorough, thoughtful and calm in everything she does. She is able to work through a crisis without making the client or anyone know there is a problem. She is also so talented at seeing a client's vision and bringing on the best team to execute it." – Bowman and Clark
Veronica Joy Events: Veronica Joy Gurl
"The process is as important as the final product," says Veronica, who leads her business with a focus on intention, humor and ease. "We are calm and confident in the midst of the magic we are creating. We always come back to: Is it luxuriously fun? I want our clients and their guests to remember the way they felt at an event we produced."
All about this pro:
- Based in: New York
- Expertise: Planning
- Founded: December 2016
- Advice for couples: "Put your blinders up. Stop comparing yourself to others."
- Learn More: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "Upon meeting Veronica (everyone calls her V), a genuine warmth fills the room. A certain magic she contains is that everyone who works alongside her feels supported, uplifted and taken care of." – Pat Furey Photo
- "She's been called an orchestra conductor, a positive force and a best friend by her couples, and it's easy to see why." – Cathryn Haight, Editor, The Knot
Willow Hill: Nicole Wineland–Thomson Fisher and Greg Fisher
What do you do when you see a gap in the industry? Willow Hill's founders, who have years of experience in the wedding industry—Nicole as a travel agent and Greg as a videographer—decided to fill it. "We know what it takes behind the scenes to execute a fabulous event," they say, which is why the couple decided to open up a wedding venue where "everyone is thought of and cared for."
All about this pro:
- Based in: Connecticut
- Expertise: Venue
- Founded: August 2023
- Motivated by: Building relationships and fostering trust.
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "Willow Hill provides a space for professionals to get creative with the design. The thoughtful property design allows for a seamless event experience for both guests and vendors." – Baciare Events
- "Nicole and Greg understand that clients want their guests to feel cared for and welcome at all times. times. They've poured their hearts and soul into their venue. Willow Hill is a unique experience for everyone that enters the premises. It's homey, tucked away, and embodies all of the necessary elements of a 'private estate' feel while offering a unique guest experience." – Stephanie Vegliante
Brittany Boote: Brittany Boote
A forever student, Brittany approaches her work through a set of beliefs. She's focused on capturing "a person's essence," and her adaptability helps her achieve that aim. "Learning the rules is just as important as breaking them," she says. "I hope to be remembered as someone who created her own path while helping others create theirs." Notably, she brings perspective and creativity to the field.
All about this pro:
- Based in: Pennsylvania
- Expertise: Photographer
- Founded: March 2017
- Fun fact: Her first camera was a GoPro.
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "Brittany's approach to photography is nothing short of remarkable. She possesses the rare skill of allowing moments to unfold naturally while simultaneously offering subtle guidance to clients to ensure they look and feel their best. Her commitment to authenticity and capturing genuine emotions sets her apart. She is not just a phenomenal photographer but also an excellent teacher who takes joy in elevating fellow photographers and vendors. Her willingness to share her expertise and her commitment to building up others in the industry make her an invaluable asset to the wedding community. She embodies the spirit of mentorship and collaboration, never resorting to gatekeeping but always encouraging growth and excellence." – Briggs & Co.
- "Her energy is infectious and she puts everything into what she's creating. Her generosity and genuine love for the work she creates is something to be inspired by. When working with her, she truly lights up and allows the people she's capturing to feel empowered. Brittany brings inclusivity and community to the forefront of her business." – Lavis Haus Design & Event Co.
TableMade: Tammy L. Noel
Tammy's business motto is "People first. Style always." That ethos doesn't just influence how she treats clients, but it informs her approach to leading a business. "Being Haitian, I was taught to take the safest, most typical route in life," she says. "Risk wasn't celebrated, since survival was the primary goal growing up. I want to inspire others to go after what they want. We all deserve to."
All about this pro:
- Based in: Georgia
- Expertise: Rentals
- Founded: June 2018
- Motivated by: Elevating hospitality
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "Tammy is an unbelievably dedicated team player with a mind-blowing work ethic and unrivaled professionalism. Even rarer, she is genuinely kind to everyone in her orbit and an absolute joy to be around." – Pearl and Sky Events
- "My experience with TableMade has been nothing short of amazing. They offer exquisite pieces and go above and beyond to provide an incredible experience for clients—from the design meeting to providing care instructions. She leads with kindness, meticulous attention to detail and friendliness. In the industry, TableMade is a true gem." – Glorianna Chan
Kait Peña: Kaitlin (Kait) Peña
Kait's drive for storytelling is rooted in her past as a photojournalist, when she documented life in Iraq throughout the ISIS occupation. Through photography, Kait says she's focused on creating work that spins seemingly ordinary snippets into "a profound narrative of your most significant moments. I want to reveal the beauty hidden in the overlooked and unexpected."
All about this pro:
- Based in: New York
- Expertise: Photography
- Founded: March 2018
- Fun fact: She is also a fashion designer.
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "Kait's inspiration, which is drawn from the world beyond weddings, helps her bring a unique perspective." – Judson Rappaport
- "Her eye for photography and storytelling is far beyond her years." – Sara Landon Events
Drew Coleman Films: Drew Coleman
Drawing inspiration from his parents' "hearts for service, unrelenting work ethic and sheer indefatigability," Drew is on a mission to create wedding videos that stir up deep emotions. He wants his work, which involves a candid, nontraditional artistic approach, to bring clients back to the intimate moments they shared on their wedding day.
All about this pro:
- Based in: North Carolina
- Expertise: Videography
- Founded: May 2020
- Fun fact: Drew was still in college when he founded his business.
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "Drew is a five-star vendor. He is responsive, efficient and full of charisma. His videos capture memories that last a lifetime." – A. Noble Events and Design
- "Drew is the type of human that our industry needs more of. He's a team player, and he respects the time and effort of the other artists he collaborates with. Simply put, he's a young man with a good heart and immense talent." – Kat Braman
Nikki Daskalakis: Nikki Daskalakis
Nikki's first career as a clinical forensic social worker taught her a valuable lesson: "Leave space for people's emotions to live, never rushing past an uncomfortable moment or trying to change a truth into something neat and compact," she says. "I spent years in the court system helping people who needed someone to bear witness to their most challenging experiences. That work demands presence and authenticity." That experience now informs her approach to photography. "I hope the people I meet along the way feel deserving of being seen."
All about this pro:
- Based in: Maryland
- Expertise: Photography
- Founded: August 2018
- Motivated by: Getting to know people beyond their walls.
- Learn more: Instagram, Website
What people are saying:
- "Nikki is your personal hype-woman. When we work together, we walk away feeling motivated and fully energized, even after 10+ hours on our feet." – Simply Breathe Events
- "She captures not just beauty, but the feelings expressed in a moment, and that's incredibly impressive." – Ida Rose Events
2024 Ones to Watch Honorees: The Innovator
Where do cutting-edge wedding trends originate? From unique vendors like these that bring original, out-of-the-box ideas to weddings.
Arizmendi Events: Ianina (Yana) Nikolaeva and Diego Arizmendi
Yana and Diego seek inspiration from fashion, beauty and nature to inform their unforgettable designs. They love thinking outside the box to create what they call "dreamscapes that are just ahead of the trends." And to make those unique concepts a reality, the duo emphasizes the importance of trusting "your designers to create something extraordinary."
All about this pro:
- Based in: New York
- Expertise: Florals
- Founded: February 2020
- Motivated by: Creating unique and unforgettable designs.
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "Their level of talent and hard work is only surpassed by their loyalty as friends and as humans." – Le Petite Privé
- "They're not afraid to try something new or to step out of the box." – Calen Rose
Sonic Sommelier: Keanna O'Quinn
Keanna is a sommelier, not of wine, but of music. She uses the science of sound to curate immersive auditory experiences. "We transform the landscape with something called cross-modal perception, or how the senses interact. We take into account the elements of an event and use them to shape our sound design and music approach." The goal of all this? "We aim to be recognized as pioneers who touched hearts and created lasting impressions of joy in every moment we were part of," she says.
All about this pro:
- Based in: California
- Expertise: Music Curation
- Founded: February 2020
- Fun fact: She loves cotton candy because its beautiful impermanence reminds her of the work she does for couples.
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "She is a true professional with the biggest heart. The fact that Sonic Sommelier is a Black-owned company is the cherry on the top for me. The team does everything with great finesse. They carry out their beautiful services with grace and excellence, no matter how big or small the event is." – Kunbi Odubogun
- "What stands out about them is their commitment to delivering outstanding results by making sure the mood and sound truly reflects the client. They consistently bring creativity, attention to detail, and professionalism to every aspect of their work." – Stafford Creative + Co.
Hawthorne & Poppy Events: Amy Küntz
Amy believes that "kindness, teamwork and creativity go a long way." She draws on those virtues when planning weddings that incorporate the five senses. "They look like a dinner party my clients host each Friday and smell like the peonies my client would steal from their grandmother's garden," she says. "The food tastes like their favorite local restaurants all came together to create one big menu just for them. When guests arrive, they immediately feel at home, which brings an unmatched energy to the wedding day."
All about this pro:
- Based in: Texas
- Expertise: Planning
- Founded: October 2020
- Advice for couples: "Always push for what feels right and most authentic to you."
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "I have always had exceptional experiences with Amy and her team. From a design perspective, they are outrageously creative and detail-oriented. They put together one-of-a-kind events with ideas that have never been seen before. Additionally, they go above and beyond to provide their couples with an extraordinary experience." – Sarah Tribett Photo
- "Amy is a creative genius at translating couples' interests into design. She is highly regarded for not only her incredible designs, but also for being an advocate for her vendor partners during the planning and production process. Amy is very quick to adapt and communicate all of the moving pieces of an event efficiently." – Remi and Gold
Tyler Varnell: Tyler Varnell
Stuck between booking a live band and a DJ for your wedding? Thanks to Tyler's hybrid approach to wedding music, you can have it all. He plays piano and saxophone while mixing tunes as a DJ and emceeing a reception. Who needs a Jack of all trades when you can have a Tyler instead?
All about this pro:
- Based in: California
- Expertise: Music
- Founded: January 2017
- Fun fact: He once played the saxophone while wakesurfing.
- Learn more: Instagram, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "He's passionate, hardworking and overall the coolest human. Tyler is absolutely incredible—not only in his trade but his attitude as well. He's a dream in all respects! " – Pure Lavish Events
- "Beyond his natural talent, the versatility he provides couples is outstanding." – Lauren Kay, Executive Editor, The Knot
Vidhi Dattani Designs: Vidhi Dattani
Vidhi is renowned for her meticulously handcrafted stationery and delicate yet vibrant paintings. She says she's focused on creating "compositions that captivate the eye and spark joy for couples who want something truly special and charming for their wedding stationery. Each piece of paper is a canvas for couples to express their story." For Vidhi, stationery shouldn't be an afterthought, but a central element in the narrative of a wedding. "My hope is that future generations will view stationery not merely as paper goods, but as cherished keepsakes that evoke memories and emotions," she says.
All about this pro:
- Based in: New York
- Expertise: Stationery
- Founded: January 2019
- Fun fact: She takes a walk in nature every day to find inspiration and stay grounded.
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "She is a talented artist who creates beauty and is kind, caring and thoughtful with her clients and industry peers." – Jainé Kershner
- "She knows how to make a lasting first impression with her gorgeous suites. Bonus points that they're worth displaying on your fridge." – Lauren Whalley, Editor, The Knot
Ironic Reports: Andrew Leavitt
A meteorologist is the wedding vendor you didn't know you need. Andrew's ability to help couples and planners make informed decisions sets him apart. "We provide context and actionable insights based on science," he says. "Instead of couples having to play amateur meteorologist, we connect you with a professional who understands the intricacies of your specific wedding." While weather apps give you information, Ironic Reports helps you make sense of it.
All about this pro:
- Based in: New York
- Expertise: Meteorology
- Founded: November 2020
- Motivated by: Raising awareness about climate change and figuring out safe ways to approach wedding planning as weather patterns shift.
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "His knowledge makes him an invaluable extension of my team. Andrew and Ironic Reports are truly one of one. No other support staff, concierge, or meteorology service approach is better from the standpoint of event execution. Furthermore, not only is Andrew, technically skilled, but he is personable, humorous, and a joy to be around." – Andrea Eppolito
- "His next-level weather prep plans are the epitome of innovation." – Taylor Whitten, Content Strategist, The Knot
SG3 Events: Sarah Nickens
Sarah is on a mission to "consistently produce weddings characterized by peace, order and breathtaking beauty," she says. "These values govern our entire approach to wedding planning, ensuring a serene and joyful journey for our couples. I want to be known as the individual who not only excels at crafting memorable events, but also goes above and beyond to assist and unite others."
All about this pro:
- Based in: Maryland
- Expertise: Planning
- Founded: March 2019
- Fun fact: Her business is named after her daughter, because the "joy I felt bringing her into the world" inspires Sarah's work.
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "Sarah and SG3 Events have consistently provided exceptional service, demonstrated creativity and innovation, and impacted the lives of their couples." – Sok Vision
- "Sarah truly has an innate likeability and cares so much about her events. She has a calming yet joyful demeanor. She keeps an extremely level head while always being positive." – Josh and Dana Fernandez
Flour House Cakes & Co.: Lincoln Alexander
Lincoln's inspiration for cakes is far from typical. "I tap into many diverse aspects of my life when designing cakes," he says. He sources ideas from his Caribbean roots, his health sciences degree and his love of textile design and travel. "My unique perspectives influence the structure, taste and beauty of my cakes." When designing a confection for a couple, he always asks himself one question: "What haven't we seen?"
All about this pro:
- Based in: Michigan
- Expertise: Cakes
- Founded: March 2018
- Fun fact: He is a third-generation baker.
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "The level of professionalism, dedication and creativity Lincoln exhibits sets a new benchmark in the wedding industry. His capacity to bring innovation, fresh ideas and a disruptive perspective to the established norms of the industry is commendable." – Stanlo Photography
- "He is easy to work with and a great vendor partner to have. He conducts business with a high level of love and integrity. He stands out in the wedding industry because he understands the importance of satisfying the client and delivering a top-notch product for couples and their guests to enjoy." – LePenn Designs
Hype Queen Media: Leshay Reed
"With a passion for storytelling and an iPhone in hand, I'm committed to capturing every unforgettable moment in a way that's fun, thoughtful and authentically you," says Leshay of her cutting-edge business. Within 24 hours of the wedding, Leshay provides the couple with videos they can share on social media while they eagerly await their photographer's and videographer's work. "When I'm at your wedding, it's more than just capturing the moments for me. My mission is to infuse every event with positivity, excitement and hype," she says.
All about this pro:
- Based in: Missouri
- Expertise: Content Creation
- Founded: August 2022
- Motivated by: Revolutionizing the way vendors collaborate and showcase their work.
- Learn more: Instagram, Website, The Knot Vendor Marketplace
What people are saying:
- "Leshay embodies a welcoming 'you can sit with us' energy, ensuring that her work and collaborations reflect a commitment to inclusiveness. Her dedication and passion for her work are evident in every project she undertakes." – Kate + Co.
- "Her personality is electric. Leshay is someone you remember and hope to see again. Hype Queen Media has been nothing short of an absolute joy to work with." – Carley Jeans Floral
2023 Ones to Watch Honorees
2023 was the inaugural year of recognizing emerging vendors through The Knot Ones to Watch. Here is a look back at the cohort of unique wedding vendors The Knot honored.
- Afrik Armando: Afrik Armando
- Alternative Standards: Erica "Gem" Benson
- Angelica & Co. Weddings: Angelica Laws
- Blue Box Bakery: Christina Kim Mathis
- Bo Shim Photography: Bo Shim
- East Made Co.: Elizabeth Gopal
- Emerson James Rental: Elisa Bricker
- Everbloom Floral Design: Erice McNeff
- Fulton Events: Caitlin Fulton Kuchemba
- Hannah Forsberg: Hannah Forsberg
- HauteFêtes Fine Weddings & Events: Dani Blasena
- House of Joy: Samantha Leenheer
- IntriCakes: Jenny Vu-Tran
- Jordan Jeanty Studios: Jordan Jeanty
- Julian Leaver Events: Julian Leaver
- K. Hancock Design: Kiara Hancock
- K. LaFleur Films: Kelly LaFleur
- Le Petit Privé: Xin Huang
- Megan Pettus Films: Megan Pettus
- Modern Rebel: Amy Shack Egan
- Pop & Drop: Kelsey Butler Harrison
- Roots Floral Design: Kaytee Stice
- Rudney Novaes Photography: Rudney Novaes
- Shean Strong Design: Shean Strong
- Sok Vision: Erin and Steve Sok
- XO Moreau: Alex Moreau