Liene Stevensowner and lead consultantWith prior experience in planning events in the non-profit, corporate and private sectors, Liene Stevens opened
Blue Orchid Designs, an event design and planning firm specializing in intercultural weddings. One of Arizona's fastest growing wedding planning companies,
their events have been featured in magazines and Liene has been quoted in various publications, including
The New York Times.
Liene's studies in psychology and cross-cultural relations lend a unique perspective to her design approach. Her experiences working in developing nations have enabled her to think quickly on her feet and have helped shape her views on social responsibility. Because of this, she is committed to making Blue Orchid Designs as "green" as possible and to partnering with eco-chic and socially conscious companies.
In addition to planning and designing stylish weddings and events through Blue Orchid Designs, Liene is the founder of
The Smart Planner™, a business coaching resource for professional wedding consultants. Her first book is scheduled to be released at the end of 2008. Liene is also an ordained minister and is known for her patience, flexibility, humor and the genuine friendships she forms with her clients.
A Note from Liene . . .Allow me to let you in on a little secret: I am not passionate about weddings. Now before you run off screaming that I hate my job, let me explain. I love my job. I absolutely love what I do.
I am passionate about people. Quite simply, people are my life’s calling.
For me, a wedding isn’t just about the one day or weekend. If my reason for being a wedding designer consisted of little more than my loving any excuse to play with pretty linens and beautiful flowers (both true), I would burn out rather quickly.
A wedding is significant because it is about the marriage and commitment to each other the couple is making. It is about two people committing to continually work on their relationship, to build a stronger love for one another and as a result, naturally build a healthier community around them.
Weddings are a celebration of two people who have chosen to share their lives at the deepest level possible - through the good, the bad, and the ugly. They are a celebration of the guests – the people who have poured into, spoken into, supported and shared life with the bride and groom. They are a celebration of what has been and what will be. In short, they are a celebration of relationships, both of the couple and their network of family and friends.
Being able to help a couple celebrate who they are, where they come from, and where they are headed is such an unbelievable blessing. That is why I do this. That is what makes it worthwhile.
[August 2007]
[photo by Karey Michelle]
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