Last year was an amazing year of firsts. In December 2014, Munaluchi held their first Coterie Retreat at the Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club in Palm Harbor, FL. One of the events that garnered my excitement was the inaugural Munaluchi Coterie Design Challenge. With Coterie talent from across the country converging at such an awesome venue, I was expecting the Challenge to be beyond elaborate. I immediately threw my name in the hat and sought to build a team. I reached out to Monica Noa of Nouveau Events who readily agreed and began putting a plan together. I LOVE to collaborate with creatives and had ideas of bringing in additional wedding specialist to both bring more to the table AND share responsibilities. That’s when I learned that Monica was bringing more to the table than I expected. Not only is she a fantastic wedding planner, but also a gifted designer! She envisioned Boho Glam inspired decor put the design together.

Planning for a styled shoot in North Carolina that would take place in Palm Harbor, Florida isn’t an easy task. Arranging for florals, rentals and models requires an above average amount forethought and follow through. Monica was more than up for the task. We interviewed several models and discussed attire. Plans were set. Then an amazing opportunity presented itself just a couples days before the shoot: fantastic gown designer and fellow Coterie member, Andrea Pitter of Pantora Bridal, offered us an amazing gown for use in the challenge. We said yes to the dress! But then it hit us, I had a model arranged that didn’t fit the gown. I’m in Palm Harbor, two days away from the shoot with an amazing wedding runway gown and no model! Monica put the search in my hands, I prayed, and the very first model I contact responded immediately! Yes, Renita Singh was a God send. She slipped into that wedding runway gown and rocked it out!

It turned out that the logistical challenges were a bit much for many desiring participates to contend with. Monica and I put together a wedding styled presentation that earned us winners of the inaugural Munaluchi Coterie Design Challenge! Our shoot is featured in the current (Spring / Summer 2015) issue of Munaluchi Bride magazine. Now for a sample of the images …