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

Hi Erin, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Silver Fern Events was born out of the passion I’ve had from the age of 16, where I first started working in my aunt’s bridal shop here in Asheville, North Carolina. Learning every possible thing I could about the wedding industry, and how to help brides who wanted to have the best day of their lives. ​
I always knew I wanted to own my own business one day, and here we are. After starting out in the wedding industry at the age of 16, that launched me into a career in fashion, where I spent 20 years as a visual merchandiser and manager for major retail fashion companies, training people how to enhance their own visual skills, starting in NYC and traveling across the U.S.
​
That eventually led me back here to my hometown of Asheville, where I finally opened Silver Fern Events.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I opened this business almost 5 years ago. This year I won Asheville’s best of event planner for 2023 and that was a huge success for me! I have had the most amazing clients over the years. A lot of them put their faith in me to have creative freedom to design the wedding from start to finish. I go above and beyond for all my clients, ensuring their wedding truly feels like the couple and making sure I am designing things that are special to them. I know my attention to detail, design and presentation is what gives me a unique perspective in planning their custom wedding, a product launch, baby shower, corporate event or intimate party.

A major challenge in the wedding planning business is managing the stress that comes with the job. Planning a wedding can be very stressful and it’s important to take care of yourself both physically and mentally. I make sure to take breaks when I need them, delegate tasks when possible, and remember to incorporate self care when ever possible.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There are so many wonderful spots in Asheville! Take a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, visit one of the many amazing breweries such as Burial beer co, stop at the S&W food market for a variety of awesome restaurants. I would definitely finish the night with a stop at Sunshine Sammies for the best ice cream sandwich ever.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I definitely want to shout out my husband, Bryan. I could not do my job with out him. We have two kids Ryder and Joanie. He is super dad on the weekends when I am working long hours. I keep striving towards my dreams with the confidence and encouragement that comes from knowing he is in my corner.

Website: silverfernevents.com

Instagram: silver fern events

Other: Ticktock : Silver Fern Events

Image Credits
Julie and Conrad photography Sophie Mclean

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSouthCarolina is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.