Hi, I’m Kate—The Wedding Realist.
My mission is to help couples plan weddings that are joyful, meaningful, and financially realistic—without the pressure, perfectionism, or guilt pushed by the wedding industry.
I’m here to bring clarity, honesty, and calm to the planning process so you can focus on what matters most: celebrating your love, creating intentional moments, and starting your marriage without stress or debt.
My Story
My love for weddings didn’t start with centerpieces or color palettes—it started backstage at dance competitions in small-town Iowa. I was the kid who kept everyone on track, did hair and makeup for half the team, double-checked costumes, and made sure no one forgot their shoes. I didn’t know it then, but those early moments taught me how much I enjoy bringing order to chaos, making people feel confident, and managing all the moving pieces that make an event come to life.
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I stayed in Iowa through college, earning both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and eventually moved to Milwaukee, WI. Along the way, I planned weddings for friends, planned my own wedding, and somehow became the “voice of reason” whenever anyone felt overwhelmed by expectations or price tags. I loved the romance and celebration—but I also couldn’t ignore the pressure the wedding industry puts on couples to overspend on things that don’t even matter to them.
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By the time I married my husband, Tim, I had a clear understanding: couples need someone who can celebrate the magic and tell the truth. They need someone who can help them build a personalized, meaningful celebration without the stress and financial strain that too often takes over.
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Out of that realization, The Wedding Realist was born.
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Today, I work as a planner in a County zoning office while running this platform—a blend of precision, practicality, and heart that helps couples stay grounded through one of the most exciting seasons of their lives. And of course, I share life with Tim and our one-year-old yellow lab/golden retriever, Queso, who has absolutely no idea he’s not a human child.
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My story is simple: I love weddings, I love planning, and I love helping people feel confident and empowered—without losing themselves or their savings in the process. That’s the heart of The Wedding Realist, and I’m so glad you’re here.