Meet Morgan Pannell | Wedding Planner & Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Morgan Pannell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Morgan, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Honestly, I spent a lot of time trying to figure out exactly I wanted from my career. Since 8th grade I knew I wanted to be a graphic designer. I went to college, graduated, and started working. But what they don’t prepare you for is the realization that you don’t always feel fulfilled by the thing you love the most. I do love art, and graphic design without a doubt. But within the confines of a typical 9-5 I couldn’t find that same joy. On top of that, Covid didn’t help. It hurt the industry. I found myself without a job still unsure of what to do with my life. During the time my best friend was planning her own wedding. One night she told me instead of having a big wedding she wished she could just elope. It gave me an idea. I started looking into ways to create an alternative for couples who wanted to skip the traditional wedding and opt for a more intimate and unique experience… I was going to be a wedding planner. And, at the time, not having a job meant I could fully pursue this idea. I jumped right in and created Magnolia Elopements + Microweddings. Eventually I realized I had a true love for helping others during such a special time in their life. It was what I was searching for all along … a way to help others, make an impact while also nurturing my creativity. That paired with the event planning itself is so fun, putting the pieces together and seeing it all come to life is so rewarding. I also found a passion for business along the way as well!

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Magnolia Elopements + Microweddings isn’t just a wedding planning company—it’s a passion project dedicated to crafting intimate and unforgettable weddings. My journey in the world of weddings began in 2020, where I found my niche specializing in officiating and planning elopements. It was during this time that I realized my deep-seated passion for creating intimate and personalized experiences for couples.

I take immense pride in infusing creativity and meticulous attention to detail into every aspect of wedding planning. Whether it’s a cozy elopement or a lavish celebration, I’m committed to making each moment special and tailored to the unique love story of the couple.

What sets Magnolia Elopements + Microweddings apart is our unwavering commitment to innovation and quality. We’re dedicated to providing personalized experiences that exceed expectations, whether it’s through exceptional customer service or unique product offerings.

I’m incredibly proud of the journey we’ve taken to reach where we are today. It hasn’t been without its challenges, but each obstacle has been a valuable learning experience. We’ve tackled market shifts and logistical hurdles head-on, emerging stronger and more resilient as a result.

Adaptability has been a crucial lesson learned along the way. In today’s rapidly changing business landscape, the ability to pivot and evolve is essential for success. Building strong relationships, both with clients and fellow vendors, has also been instrumental in our growth. Collaboration and communication have been key pillars of our journey.

I want the world to understand that Magnolia Elopements + Microweddings is more than just a business—it’s a reflection of my dedication to making a difference. Driven by values and a desire to leave a positive impact, my story is one of perseverance, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to excellence. I’m excited about the future and eager to continue our journey of growth and success.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
How exciting! Greenville truly boasts a plethora of delightful activities and dining choices!

Without a doubt, a visit to Falls Park should top the list. While downtown, I’d recommend securing reservations for a meal at The Lazy Goat, followed by a sweet stop at Old Europe for dessert!

Venturing beyond downtown, I can’t recommend Pita House enough—it’s a personal favorite of mine! Their grape leaves are an absolute must-try.

Be sure to include Pretty Place in your itinerary for breathtaking views, and spending an afternoon kayaking on Lake Jocassee would undoubtedly make for a memorable adventure!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to dedicate this shoutout to my dad, who has been a constant source of encouragement throughout my journey. He’s always pushed me to chase my dreams and pursue my passions relentlessly. From the early days of perfecting my softball swing to the countless hours spent drawing together, he’s been my unwavering supporter. As I transitioned into adulthood, his support only grew stronger. Whether it was accompanying me to college open houses or cheering me on at art showcases, he was always there. Now, as I navigate the world of entrepreneurship, he’s my go-to person for everything—from crafting a wedding arch to setting up a bar for events. His mantra of “do what you love” has been ingrained in me since childhood, and I’m forever grateful for his guidance and unwavering belief in me.

Website: magnoliaelopementsgvl.com / neonmoongvl.com

Instagram: magnoliaelopements / neonmoongvl

Facebook: Magnolia Elopements + Microweddings / Neon Moon Mobile Bar

Other: I own two businesses: Magnolia Elopement + Microweddings and Neon Moon Mobile Bar

Image Credits
Weekend By Bailey Framed by Daniel Jaelynn Alexis Photography Cuena Creative Hunter Kitrell Photo Enchanted Impressions