Courtney Spencer does not just plan weddings. She curates experiences that feel intentional, elevated, and rooted in story. As the founder of Courtney Spencer Weddings in Richmond, Virginia, she is known for creating events with editorial polish, over-the-top fun, and meaningful details that reflect each couple’s style at every turn.

With more than a decade of experience and a background as a photo stylist, Courtney approaches design with both aesthetic precision and heartfelt hospitality. Her work is grounded in Southern tradition, guided by etiquette, and elevated with a modern twist. Whether she is producing a large-scale wedding or hosting friends at home, her philosophy remains the same: begin with the end in mind and make every guest feel considered.

Q: Where do you start when planning a gathering?

A: With any event, I always begin with the end in mind and work backwards, of course, always focusing on the most important part of the event: the guests.

It is classic event planner thinking. Vision first, logistics second. But always anchored in guest experience.

Q: How do you make guests feel comfortable right away?

A: I really think the most important thing you can do is make your guests feel comfortable. Model the mood. Make it easy to find a bar, a snack, a glass of water, and the loo. Turn on some fun background music. Light some pretty candles. Pass a few bites. At the end of the day it's not rocket science!

This is such a refreshing reminder. Hosting does not have to be complicated. It is about clarity and comfort. A well-placed bar, soft candlelight, and a thoughtful flow can do more than an elaborate theme ever could.

Q: Budget-friendly tablescape must-have?

A: I always love a long row of caterpillar vases filled with monochromatic flowers, along with varying heights of glass candlesticks. Super chic and not expensive!

Monochromatic florals are a planner’s secret weapon. The repetition creates impact, while simple glass candlesticks add height and glow without inflating the budget. It is proof that you do not need excess to achieve elegance.

Q: What makes a gathering truly memorable?

A: There's nothing quite like knowing your host thought about you and went to the trouble to make you feel welcomed, comfortable and special.

The throughline in all of Courtney’s answers is intentionality. Memorable gatherings are not about extravagance. They are about thoughtfulness.

Q: Advice for someone overwhelmed by hosting?

A: Start by inviting fewer guests to give it a trial run and work your way up to larger groups. Outsource where you can. Fried rice from your favorite Japanese restaurant, for instance, looks fabulous on pretty china!

This is permission to simplify. Hosting at home does not require doing everything yourself. Strategic shortcuts are part of the plan.

Q: Your signature drink?

A: Bourbon slush (I'm from Kentucky), and I'm sorry, but I can't share the recipe. I'll take it to my grave!

Q: Your dinner party soundtrack?

A: I love a Frenchy playlist. Lots of Serge Gainsbourg.

Q: Your favorite party trick?

A: It's a practical one: please, for the love of all that is holy, put a pretty dispenser of water on the bar. It can be plain spring water or add cucumber slices. Anything works, except making it hard for guests to find water.

Hydration is hospitality. A visible water station is such a small but powerful detail.

Q: Most memorable party you’ve hosted?

A: I've loved every one of my children's birthday parties. It's so much fun to treat them and to let my creativity drive the bus with very little veto power at play. Last October, we gave my son a tennis party for his 8th birthday. I loved making the centerpieces and decor, including a balloon arch. But the best part was seeing how happy he was celebrating with his friends!

Even seasoned event planners crave creative freedom. Sometimes the magic is in the joy on your child’s face.

Q: Favorite brands for hosting?

A: For small parties, my go-tos are Caspari, Meri Meri, and Hester & Cook.

These brands make it easy to elevate everyday entertaining with thoughtful details.

Q: What do you love about Partytrick?

A: I love that Partytrick streamlines party planning and eliminates decision fatigue. A major bonus for time-starved hostesses who want to entertain but benefit from a template.

Less decision fatigue. More creative energy. That is a win.

‍

To get inspired by Courtney’s artful approach to entertaining, follow her on Instagram @courtneyspencerweddings or visit Courtney Spencer Weddings to explore her work. Ready to host something of your own? Partytrick’s curated templates and intuitive tools make it simple to design a gathering that feels personal and polished. Start your next event with Partytrick and bring your vision to life.