Working with me, Abbie…
It's a beautiful thing when a career and a passion come together. That’s my every day!
I live for the love stories, the Pinterest boards, and those ‘we did it’ hugs at the end of the night.
I want you to know working with me means more than just emails and calls — it means building a genuine connection. You can feel confident knowing your wedding memories are in the hands of someone who genuinely cares.
When you choose OKOTA — for photography, videography, floral design, invitations, or all of the above — you’re in the hands of a team that really gets you and your vision.
My work takes a lot of heart, but some technical training is necessary too!
I earned degrees in photography and graphic design from Xavier University, as well as a certification as an International Wedding Planner from QC Event School. In 2013 (YES, I was still a teenager!), I started gaining hands-on real wedding experience, and set out with the goal to lauch a wedding design business that offers a whole new level of ease and comfort for busy couples trying to plan their dream weddings AND enjoy their engagement.
MORE FUN STUFF ABOUT ME PERONSALLY BELOW!
More About Me...
My husband, Kris
(Second Photographer & Lead Videographer)
Highschool Sweethearts
Married in 2017
Our 2nd fur baby, Winston
Something we are passionate about, Saving the Sea turtles!
(more on our volunteer work below)
Our daughter, Harper
Our fur baby, Willow
About
OKOTA (OH-KOH-TA)
OKOTA comes from the word ‘Kota” and the expression ‘O’. ‘O’ is often times used when one is in awe of something. ‘Kota’ is derived from the name of the Native American tribe, the Lakota. The Lakota people are believers in the turtle creation story…
Long ago the creator summoned a turtle to go to the bottom of the sea and bring forth the earth. When the turtle emerged from the water it had upon its back the mud foundation of the land. This land was built upon by the Creator, forming our world.
From this Native American creation story turtles have become symbols of a strong foundation, longevity, and wisdom. Their slow movements remind us to slow down, and enjoy life on this earth. Their long lifespan, and wrinkled appearance make them a symbol of longevity and wisdom. The turtle is said to have the oldest of all animal souls.
OKOTA honors this Native American symbolism in their work. OKOTA works to create a strong foundation for the start of a changed life. OKOTA makes this foundation strong and capable of long time success with wisdom gained through years of experience. In what can be a stressful time, OKOTA does all the work, making it possible for our clients to be able to slow down, and enjoy the process.
Let OKOTA be your turtle, because OKOTA genuinely cares about the start of your forever.