53. Building a Family-Owned Wedding Venue with Alicia McKay, The Oakley

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Griselda Mucollari (Ella), Metro Detroit’s go-to wedding and event content creator. With a background in international advertising and a passion for storytelling, Ella captures the candid, emotional, and joy-filled moments to fill the gaps that traditional vendors often miss. We talk about her unique path from corporate America to content creation, how she built a business that blends iPhone footage with intentionality, and why wedding content creators are becoming a highly desired want-to-have vendor for modern couples!In this episode:What a wedding content creator actually does—and how it’s different from formal videographyElla’s journey from global ad campaigns to documenting local love storiesThe rise of iPhone-quality behind-the-scenes content—and why couples love itA full walkthrough of a wedding day from her lens (literally!)Tips for hosting unforgettable events and being the “host with the most”Why thoughtful planning, small details, and genuine moments matter more than perfectionEmerging trends in weddings—from intimate guest lists to restaurant venuesEmotional stories, from first looks to surprise moments with parentsReal talk about pricing, the value of vendor services, and misconceptions around costConnect with Ella:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/detroit_content_creator/If you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to [email protected] with Sarah:Website: https://sarahkolis.com/Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ

In this episode, I'm joined by Gray Ellender of Go With Gray Travel, a luxury travel advisor and honeymoon specialist who helps couples plan seamless, stress-free trips! Gray shares her unique journey from healthcare to launching her own travel brand and breaks down what it's really like to work with a travel advisor—hint: it's not as expensive as you might think!In this episode:The surprising perks of using a travel advisor (even if you already booked!)The three types of travel planning Gray offersWhy the honeymoon isn’t the time to DIY logisticsHow Gray built a personal brand that connects on a deeper levelHer favorite destinations and most memorable client tripsWhether you’re engaged and planning a honeymoon, or just dreaming of your next getaway, Gray’s insight will open your eyes to what’s possible (and how much easier it can be when you don’t do it alone).Connect with Gray:Website: www.gowithgraytravel.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gowithgraytravel/Email: [email protected] you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to [email protected] with Sarah:Website: https://sarahkolis.com/Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ

Creating a custom couture wedding gown is more than just designing a dress—it’s about crafting a once-in-a-lifetime experience! In this episode, Sarah Kolis takes you behind the scenes of my bridal design process, sharing everything from the initial consultation to the final fitting. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to create a truly one-of-a-kind wedding dress, this episode is for you!I also chat with bride, Ashley Rozek, who struggled to find the perfect gown in stores and chose a custom design route instead. She shares her experience, from choosing fabrics to her pre-wedding photo shoot, and why having a couture gown made all the difference for her special day!If you’re considering a custom wedding gown or just love hearing about the artistry behind couture bridal fashion, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and real-life bridal stories!In this episode: The step-by-step process of creating a custom wedding dressHow to decide between a store-bought or custom gownWhy mock dress fittings are a crucial part of the processThe importance of high-quality bridal fabrics and how they impact the final lookAshley’s experience with a custom gown and her stunning pre-wedding photo shootIf you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to [email protected] with Sarah:Website: https://sarahkolis.com/Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ

In this episode, I’m joined by Alicia McKay, co-owner and venue coordinator of The Oakley, a premier event venue in Holly, Michigan! Alicia shares how she unexpectedly fell into wedding planning after her own wedding and how that journey evolved into running a full-scale family-owned venue on a 40-acre property!We talk about:How Alicia transitioned from graphic designer to venue ownerThe transformation of her in-laws' horse barn into a stunning venueWhat makes The Oakley’s full-weekend experience so uniqueWedding trends we’re both seeing and lovingReal-life sacrifices and joys of working in the wedding industryAlicia also shares her heartfelt philosophy on treating every couple like family and the importance of creating a stress-free, memorable experience.Whether you're planning a wedding, dreaming of starting a venue, or just love hearing women in business share their story—this episode is full of insight and inspiration!Connect with Alicia:Website: www.theoakleyevents.comInstagram: @theoakleyeventsFacebook: @theoakleyweddingsIf you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to [email protected] with Sarah:Website: https://sarahkolis.com/Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ

You asked - we answered! In this episode, I sit down with my youngest sister, Melissa, for a fun and lighthearted conversation about her wedding journey, life updates, and all things fashion. We answer listener-submitted questions covering everything from how she met her husband Cam to the special moments on her wedding day, including her first dance song, favorite wedding details, and what it was like being the youngest of four sisters! In this episode:How Melissa and Cam met and their dating journeyChoosing a first dance song and special wedding detailsThe reality of wedding day stress vs. excitementFashion trends, wardrobe favorites, and growing up with sistersLife after the wedding, new hobbies, and future plansIf you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to [email protected] with Sarah:Website: https://sarahkolis.com/Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ

In this special episode, we continue our bride interview series with three amazing women—Gwen, Kayla, and Rina—who share the real stories behind their wedding days. From intimate destination ceremonies to unique personal touches and unexpected moments, this episode is full of inspiration and heartfelt reflections.Bride Gwen Semrow shares all about her beautiful Playa del Carmen destination wedding, the story behind her dress alterations, and the unforgettable speech from her husband!Bride Kayla Keller is a Traverse City bride who personalized every detail of her wedding, including a surprise musical moment that left her in tears. Plus, the unexpected item she put on her wedding registry!Bride Rina Sistrunk tells us all about how she embraced community support in wedding planning, overcame challenges, and the hilarious moment that set the tone for her big day!Are you a bride who Sarah Kolis has worked with and you want to share your story on the podcast too? We’d love to chat with you! Check your email for booking details or reach out via [email protected] or DM to get scheduled!If you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to [email protected] with Sarah:Website: https://sarahkolis.com/Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ

In this episode, Mimi Rubin joins us to share all the details of her wedding day—from planning the perfect celebration with all their close friends and family, to unexpected moments that made the day even more memorable! We dive into her unique bridal style, including a stunning David’s Bridal gown with custom alterations by Sarah Kolis herself, and the special touches that made her wedding one-of-a-kind—like a live wedding guest painting experience and a sweet wedding favor nod to their dog Charlie!Plus, we bring in her husband, Chad, for a groom’s perspective on wedding planning, the big day jitters, and his best advice for future grooms. We also chat about wedding budgeting, what’s worth the splurge, and what you can skip without regret!Mentioned vendors:Wedding painter: Jenny Paints by Hand @jennypaintsbyhandDJ: Motor City HDj - Brett CumminsPhotographer: Elle Musall from Ellis & Indigo PhotographyIf you have questions for Sarah and her team to answer, send an email to [email protected] with Sarah:Website: https://sarahkolis.com/Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ

Welcome to the third episode of the Real Brides Series! In this episode, I sit down with three incredible brides—Darby, Madison, and Natalie—to hear their unique and heartwarming wedding stories, each filled with creativity, personal touches, and valuable lessons!Darby Lorimer talks about her dreamy destination wedding, her two-piece gown, and some unique wedding planning tips!Madison Henzi shares how last-minute dress alterations saved her dream gown and gave her the perfect fit just days before the wedding!Natalie Conti reflects on her Detroit rooftop wedding, a hilarious vow interruption during the ceremony, and how her simple sheath dress made her feel truly special!Are you a bride who Sarah has worked with and wants to share your story on the podcast? I’d love to chat with you! Check your email for booking details or reach out via email or DM to get scheduled!If you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to [email protected] with Sarah:Website: https://sarahkolis.com/Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ

In this special episode, Sarah introduces Erin Conner, her lead seamstress! They share their story of friendship, career paths, and the evolution of their bridal business. From their early days at David’s Bridal to the Sarah Kolis brand today, they talk about their love for sewing, the challenges and joys of bridal alterations, and their favorite wedding dress projects.In this episode: How Sarah and Erin met and their decade-long journey to working togetherThe demand for custom bridal services like vintage redesigns and heirloom piecesThe importance of proper dress fittings, hem lengths, and undergarments for bridal gownsWhy they love working with both structured and creative gown designsFunny behind-the-scenes moments (like babies napping nearby and sewing machine nostalgia!)Their tips on dress fittings, including "letting out" dresses and managing pre-wedding body changesIf you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to [email protected] with Sarah:Website: https://sarahkolis.com/Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ

Welcome back to The Dressing Up Podcast! Today, I’m diving into the stories of three incredible brides I’ve had the honor of working with: Alexa, Emily, and Stephanie. We’ll chat about their wedding days, the moments they’ll cherish forever, and the lessons they learned along the way. If you’re a bride-to-be or just love hearing about wedding experiences, you won’t want to miss this episode!Bride Alexa Ayyash shares her secret to staying calm while wedding planning and relives a magical first dance moment she’ll never forget! She says, “I have never felt as beautiful as I did when walking down the aisle and my husband saw me in my dress for the first time.“Bride Emily Spencer  reveals her favorite wedding-day moment—a heartfelt first look—and how planning ahead made a world of difference when life threw unexpected challenges her way. We also discuss her unique bridal style, including a vintage redesign of her mom’s wedding dress! She says, “Our wedding day was the best day of our lives! Standing up there with Daniel, it only felt like just the two of us.”Bride Stephanie Spencer says, “my wedding was full of joy and love” and reminisces about her emotional vow exchange and overcoming challenges like planning a wedding while in school and managing a cross-country move. She also shares her experience working with close family and friends to create a memorable day and gives advice to brides on embracing imperfection.Connect with Us:Are you a bride who Sarah has worked with and wants to share your story on the podcast? I’d love to have you! Check your email for booking details or reach out via email or DM to get scheduled.If you have questions for Sarah to answer, send an email to [email protected] with Sarah:Website: https://sarahkolis.com/Instagram: https://instagram.com/sarahkolisdesigns/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbh7HlVmyj9N5VsleuySxcQ