2026 AWPA Board - Courtesy of Alyssa Jarae Photography

LEADERSHIP

Through a spirit of collaboration, we are a group of competitors that were willing to talk about the industry and its needs. One gathering turned into another and then another. Today, we are a group professionals that value community over competition and have a desire to elevate and improve the Austin Wedding Market one conversation at a time. These are the current leaders of our organization who volunteer to take the time and make our community better.

Shelby Kirchner

PRESIDENT

Plan On It Events and Design

Established 2019

Credentials: Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Horticulture from Texas A&M University

"Being a part of AWPA has changed the game for me. Taking the time to invest in relationships with other wedding planners and committing to learn from others by prioritizing community over competition has been one of the best decisions I've made in my planning business. I am so excited to serve as the 2026 AWPA President to grow our community of talented Austin wedding planners!"

Courtney Marino

VICE PRESIDENT

Satin Wedding Co.

Established 2021

Credentials: Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Texas at San Antonio

“I've built my career on the belief that there's no single way to do weddings or to be a wedding professional. As Vice President of AWPA, I'm excited to bring a fresh perspective that embraces creativity, individuality, and a little healthy disruption. I believe our industry grows when we make room for different voices, different ideas, and people who aren't afraid to challenge the norm. My goal is to help foster a community where members feel supported, inspired, connected, and empowered to show up as their authentic selves.”

Cassie Morales

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

Heavenly Day Events

Established 2010

Credentials: Bachelor of Arts from University of Texas at Austin, LWPI Certified Wedding Planner

“Much of what AWPA is is due to the community and relationships built and nurtured between the planners and among the vendors. Joining AWPA has been incredibly rewarding for me, both professionally and personally, as I've grown and learned so much from respected peers and like-minded business owners. I'm honored to be Immediate Past President this year and serve our AWPA community." 

Kathryn (Kat) Eyers

MARKETING

Unwrapped & Uncorked Events

Established 2017

Credentials: Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Business from Michigan State University

“AWPA has been an absolute blessing and I wish I would have joined sooner. It’s such a wonderful community of fellow planners and quality industry partners. I feel fortunate to be a part of a community that supports each other, who are willing to share experiences & advice, and who cheer each other in our business successes. Taking a leap into the AWPA community has honestly been one of the best decisions within my business. This is Kat’s third year in the AWPA marketing role, and she cannot wait to dive further into it!”

Brian Rudy-Moghaddasi

TREASURER

Satin Wedding Co.

Established 2021

“Brian has been in the events industry since 2020 working weddings, socials, and corporate galas! He joined the industry after planning his wedding in 2019, realizing he loved the community and vendor bonding when putting together an important day. In 2025, Brian was voted by the Associated Wedding Planners of Austin as the year's "Most Valuable Planner." He prides himself in prioritizing a low-stress event day, keeping everyone on time, and ensuring your vision is brought to life!
And, here’s a few things he thought you should know about him: He may have a bubbly, fun personality, but he gets it done when working. His favorite part of the job is helping you do things your own way; and you better believe he’ll be hitting the dance floor at your reception if the DJ plays Britney Spears.”

Tatianna Ramon

SECRETARY

Love Punch Planning

Established 2024

Credentials: Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from St. Edward's University and Associate Degree in Hospitality specializing in Meeting and Event Planning from Austin Community College.

"I'm really excited to step into the role of Secretary on the AWPA Board! It's a fantastic opportunity for me to connect more deeply with other planners and event pros, and I can't wait to work together to enhance and uplift the wedding scene in Austin. Building strong professional relationships and expanding our community's influence is something I'm truly looking forward to!"

Danielle Pedigo

MEMBERSHIP

Riley Lou Events

Established 2021

Credentials: Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and Bachelors of Science in Human Studies from Texas Tech University. 

“AWPA has been such a great way for me to meet and connect with other planners and vendors. It is so nice to have a community of people who support and encourage each other. AWPA has given me the chance to form new friendships and learn from my fellow planners and other wedding professionals. I am looking forward to serving as the Membership Chair this year.”

Sara Hernandez

Vendor Rep

Bonita Brides