Crafting Out-Of-The-Box Experiences: Haley Kelly Events in Focus

For Haley Kelly, owner and creative director of Haley Kelly Events, no two celebrations are the same. Known for her out-of-the-box yet timeless designs, Haley thrives on creating events that feel bold, personal, and unforgettable. Her signature approach combines deep client connections with a willingness to push boundaries, ensuring each event is a reflection of the couple’s story.

In this Q&A, Haley shares her design philosophy, advice for brides-to-be, and the importance of balancing creativity with practicality to craft exceptional experiences.

What is your signature style?

We are out of the box but timeless and generally lean into whatever design we do. If it's an all-white wedding then every flower in the place will be white! We aren't for everyone and that is OK!

How do you describe your creative approach?

We love to get to know our clients: where they met, where they travel, restaurants they go to, what their house looks like, and build off of these things. We also push a little bit so always put out the crazy idea because you never know what will stick!

Where do you search for new inspiration?

Restaurants, travel.

What do you recommend investing most in?

That is tough. Three-part answer: One, keep your priorities in line with what was important from day one. Two, keep your event balanced. You don't need a $30K photographer and then not have the budget for nice chairs. Three, the guest experience is key—ease of getting to the venue, feeling taken care of, and surprise elements!

Team big or small: What type of events do you prefer?

Regardless of guest count, I personally prefer large-scale production. We love a blank slate where we are bringing in power, bathrooms, and flooring—inventing the space for the event!

How far in advance should people hire a planner?

I think what matters most is hiring a planner within the first two vendor hires—no matter if you are six months out or 18 months out!

Best advice for a bride-to-be?

Hire a planner. :)

What do you wish more people understood about what you do?

That it isn't a part-time job and it isn't all fun and games! Thankfully I love my career so it does feel like fun often but the stakes are high, emotions are high and we are managing sometimes more than 100 people on-site.