Wildly Inspired: WIPA Nashville’s
August 2025 Gathering at Saint Elle
by WIPA Nashville
On August 13, 2025, WIPA Nashville gathered the city’s most creative wedding professionals for our Q3 event, Wildly Inspired, hosted at The Saint Elle. This immersive evening celebrated collaboration, creativity, and community—bringing together some of the most respected voices in the wedding industry for an unforgettable experience.
The heart of the evening was our educational panel, “The Wild Landscape of the Wedding Industry — Where We’ve Been and Where We’re Going.” Moderated with warmth and energy, the conversation featured four visionaries whose careers continue to shape the modern wedding landscape.
Photos by Steph Bishop
Alison Hotchkiss, founder of Alison Events in Sausalito, has spent more than two decades producing extraordinary celebrations for high-profile clients across the globe. With three published books and a new expansion into luxury travel, Alison continues to push the boundaries of design and experience. Guests were thrilled to receive a copy of her latest book, Gorgeous Gatherings—a work that beautifully highlights her talents.
Max Cutrone, a California-born filmmaker and artist, shared his perspective on storytelling through wedding films. Known for his collaborative approach and deeply personal style, Max’s work draws couples into their own narratives with authenticity and cinematic detail.
Shira Savada, former Real Weddings editor for Martha Stewart Weddings, brought a keen editorial eye and industry insight to the discussion. Now a consultant, stylist, and connector, Shira is renowned for helping creative entrepreneurs elevate their work while championing the value of collaboration in our industry.
Tec Petaja, a globally celebrated wedding photographer with twenty years of experience, rounded out the panel with his signature laid-back style. His images are known for capturing the essence of a moment, blending artistry with timelessness. They are what have kept him relevant and at the top of the market.
The panel was both reflective and forward-thinking, offering WIPA members a unique look at where the wedding industry has been—and where it is heading. From the power of storytelling to the importance of innovation, each speaker shared lessons that left attendees inspired to dream bigger and create more intentionally.
The event itself was a testament to the artistry of our Nashville community. Jessica Sloane and Lindsy Read of Read Event House co-designed an environment that brought the Wildly Inspired theme to life, weaving together organic textures, layered details, and thoughtful design moments. “Together with an incredible team of intentional vendors, we co-designed an artful experience that beautifully blended inspiration, connection, and creativity,” Jessica reflected, “the vision truly came to life!”
Saint Elle, our host venue, provided the perfect backdrop. The 8,000-square-foot space combines mid-century charm with modern sophistication. Saint Elle is a versatile setting that effortlessly accommodated our panel, networking reception, and members-only after party.
The event design itself was a true reflection of unity and artistry. After the panel, guests were seated at tables arranged in a spiral formation, a thoughtful decision that not only created a visually striking layout but also symbolized the connections and collective energy of our community. The carefully curated seating chart encouraged meaningful networking and new friendships, turning the room into a living illustration of togetherness.
Photos by Steph Bishop
Every detail was intentional— from the rich, green linens from Luxe Linen that matched Alison’s book and the absolutely stunning florals by Echoes of Eden, to the menus, signage, and printed elements by REGË Paper Studio, each element of this event was a work of art in its own right. Guests were dazzled by the immersive projection wall by Premier Entertainment, while they enjoyed a unique and flavorful family-style dinner by Flavor Catering, a show-stopping cake by Dessert Designs, and entertainment from FUZE – DJ Live that kept the after party buzzing.
Wildly Inspired was more than an event—it was a reminder of why we gather. To learn, to connect, and to celebrate the incredible artistry that defines our industry. Here in Nashville, we’re proud to be part of a community that continues to lead with creativity and collaboration.
SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL OF OUR INCREDIBLE EVENT PARTNERS:
Venue: Saint Elle @thesaintelle
Designers: @JessicaSloane + @ReadEventHouse
Photographer: Steph Bishop @stephgbishop
Videographer: Skylar Ball @skylarball_
Catering: Flavor Catering @flavorcatering
Cake: Dessert Designs @dessertdesignsbyleland
Rentals: EventWorks @eventworksrentals
Draping: Quest @questevents_nashville
Linen: Luxe Linen @luxe_linen
Florals: Echoes of Eden @echoesofedenflorals
Projection Wall, Sound / AV: Premier Entertainment @requestpremier
Paper Goods: REGË Paper Studio @regepaperstudio
Speakers: @alison_events, @_shiramisu, @maxcutrone, @tecpetaja
Hair and Makeup: Shani Gailbreath @shani.gailbreath
After Party Entertainment: FUZE – DJ Live by @requestpremier and @downtownbandentertainment
