the beginning
Founder & Director, Bindy O'Kelly, has been organizing events in a multitude of fashion, beginning at the early age of 18 during her Air Force days. With the military being a constant changing environment, the mobility of it all left little time for planning and, at times, money for budgeting, which only meant the need for creativity and urgency was a must for a successful event to come through to fruition. Weddings, births, holidays, birthdays, and not very many outlets for help, Bindy stepped in and took the lead. "I was young and threw myself in there, learning as I went. These were people I cared about and I wanted to give them the greatest memory regardless of the obstacles. I had to be very organized, detail oriented, and budget conscious, while still heavily focused on the romanticism of it all. Little did I know, these experiences I had thrown myself into, would turn into a passion project I'd come to fall in love with." As time passed and her own family grew, Bindy went on to plan events for her children, their friends, and soon after, friends of friends, only growing more inspired through sharing these milestones with them.
Fast forward through obtaining a Masters degree in Accounting and Finance, her love and passion for event planning began to resurface and she chose to "get serious about it." Bindy soon after relocated to the ever creative city Long Beach, and opened her doors. With a plethora of weddings added to her memory list and portfolio, she formally launched Crystal & Lace Wedding Consultants.
meet the team
Bindy O'Kelly is a mother first, an artist of life second, and a right-left brained, multi-faceted human being always on the go! From growing gardens and making jam, raising birds, fostering animals, teaching art classes to kids, designing children's rooms, and helping her kids through life, she is never short of inspiration. Bindy is a member in good standing of the Association of bridal consultants with New York Institute of Art and Design, has been awarded Top Wedding Event Planner in Los Angeles, two years running, and has curated a very specific list of highly noted vendors & showrooms, fully recommended for your big day.
Her devotion to her couples are what keep people coming back, as a high amount of Crystal & Lace clientele has resulted from "word-of-mouth" alone. Her vision in life and for Crystal & Lace is, "it takes a tribe", ultimately welcoming you in as family.
Assistant Planner & Brand Manager
A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising with over 10 years of industry experience (couture wedding gowns included), Sheena Snyder is not only her mothers daughter, she is the second creative eye behind Crystal & Lace. Specializing in day-of-coordination, and intimate conversations with brides before her cue for your, "walk down the aisle" moment, Sheena is the person you'll be finding comfort with on your big day. A romantic by nature, and creative by heart, she brings an artistic eye to our brand through a multitude of mediums. Ultimately, she's your Day-of-Best-Friend. (PS. She loves it)
Day-Of Coordination
A coffee enthusiast, author, and full-time student, Samantha Snyder is here for you, even when you're unaware of the necessity. You'll find her popping up on your big day in a sporadic formation. Whether it's bar keeper, finishing touches and last minute surprise savior, or guest conversationalist (ie: keeping everyone in format), she's our girl, working hard with an inviting smile. Prone to perfectionism, she's the behind the scenes guru, ensuring your guests feel welcomed and enjoy your memories in the making.
Day-Of Coordination
Fitness guru, enthused entrepreneur, and on-call "make-it-happen" aficionado, Travis Larson is our behind-the-scenes strength. You'll find him running around, solidifying details and seamlessly connecting the dots through the much needed heavy lifting, and background necessities. He's your day-of damage control for those last minute challenges you'll never know existed!
