Rachel and Mike’s Modern Winter Wedding at Westwind Hills

Rachel, a seasoned wedding planner since 2016 with Ohana Events Inc., has orchestrated events across the nation and internationally. Stepping into the role of a bride offered her a unique perspective: “It was surreal living on the other side of things and experiencing being a bride.” This firsthand experience has deepened her ability to empathize with and serve her couples.

Rachel & Mike’s Love Story

Rachel and Mike’s relationship began during their college years at the University of Missouri (Mizzou). Their friendship blossomed into romance, leading them to Seattle for several years before returning to the Midwest, where they chose to tie the knot and lay down roots.

A Modern, Timeless Wedding Style

Rachel and Mike envisioned a wedding that embodied modern elegance with a timeless touch. Their celebration took place at Westwind Hills, an 11,000-square-foot venue designed with luxury and versatility in mind. The space, crafted by an event planner and photographer, features high-end finishes and reclaimed white oak beams, blending modern sophistication with classic charm.

Floral arrangements by Belli Fiori embraced a crisp, contemporary feel with a modern rose-forward design, omitting greenery to maintain a clean, refined aesthetic. The result was an effortlessly elegant atmosphere that perfectly captured their vision.

Creating a Memorable Guest Experience

For Rachel and Mike, guest comfort and enjoyment were priorities. They arranged transportation for hotel guests, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. From arrival, guests were immersed in warmth and hospitality, with a steady flow of delicious food, handcrafted cocktails, and meaningful personal touches woven throughout the day. Every detail—from curated music to heartfelt toasts—was designed to make guests feel valued and included.

Key Elements of the Day

• Show-Stopping Attire: Rachel wore a Paloma Blanca gown with elegant sleeves and cascading buttons, exuding “old money” sophistication. Mike complemented her in a custom white velvet jacket from Tailored Gents. Guests wore black, allowing the couple and their flower girl to stand out in white.
• Music That Set the Tone: Their DJ meticulously curated and edited every song to match key moments, adding a personal and meaningful touch.
• Ambiance & Design: A candlelit winter wedding created a cozy, romantic atmosphere. A “classroom-style” U-shaped table arrangement fostered mingling while framing the dance floor.
• Floral Highlights: Belli Fiori’s all-white floral design included ceremony columns and a striking white aisle runner, which popped against the guests’ black attire.

Advice for Future Couples

Rachel’s advice is simple: “No one will remember your wedding like you think they might. Do what makes you happy because YOU will remember this day for the rest of your life.”

Contributing Vendors
Photo: Rachel Syrisko Photography
Planner, Photobooth & Design: Ohana Events Inc.
Venue: Westwind Hills
Catering: Ces and Judy’s Catering
DJ: High Class DJs
Videography: Film and Fable Co