Alison Hotchkiss
Event Planner
Alison Hotchkiss is an Event Planner and the Founder of Alison Events Planning, Design, and Travel based in Sausalito, California. With over 21 years of experience, she specializes in planning luxury travel for clients in both the honeymoon and leisure travel sectors. Alison Events Planning, Design and Travel is at the top of the list of wedding planners for Goop, Brides, and Martha Stewart Weddings, and has produced over 500 events in 75 cities.
Education
- BS, Natural Resource, Recreation & Tourism, Colorado State University
- Lincoln University, Christchurch, New Zealand
Professional Achievements
- Named one of Vogue’s Best Wedding Planners around the world
- Named a "Best Of" wedding planner by Harpers Bazaar, Goop, and Brides Magazine
- Published three books: “Destination Wedding Planner: The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding from Afar” (2009), “All the Essentials Wedding Planner: The Ultimate Tools for Organizing Your Big Day” (2012), “Gorgeous Gathering; Designing Unforgettable Weddings and Luxurious Celebrations” (coming fall 2024)
Certifications & Organizations
- Luxury Travel Advisor with Embark Beyond (2020-present)
- Planner on the Belmond Hotels Celebrations Advisory Board, 2023-2024
- Ordained minister
Favorite Piece of Advice
- Hire a professional so you can plan your party or event with ease, and so that you get to be a guest at your own party (especially if its a wedding).
- Take time to plan your wedding so it is enjoyable, make sure you are considerate of those who are attending (dietary restrictions, challenges with mobility, etc).
- Do not skimp on the lighting at your wedding–it's one of the most important parts of any event.
- Have fun!
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Q&A Comments (9)
How do you have a successful destination wedding?
Do plenty of research beforehand! Think about the travel logistics, as well as the climate and weather patterns for the area. How easy is it to get there? How many flights a day go there? Are there hurricanes, monsoons, or other major weather patterns to consider? These are all important points to factor into your decision.
How do you plan a beach wedding?
Factor in where the beach is and what type of weather that area gets. Wind and rain are serious challenges to consider, as well as the changing tides. You'll also want to make plans for dealing with the heat—you'll need to have plenty of water for your guests, and you may need to build a platform that takes guests out to the beach so they don't have to walk on the hot sand.
Where is the best place in Hawaii to get married?
Oahu island is great! It's easy to get to from different cities around the world—plus, it has a lot of amenities. Haiku Mill and Olowalu Plantation are both beautiful venues to consider if you're getting married in Maui.
