MEET JENN, ‘I’m a thrower, not a go’er.’
MORE ABOUT OWNER, JENNIFER REYES (aka Jenn... and sometimes J-REY):
Above photo by Erica Ann Photography
I started AWE Productions in 2014 to serve as an alternative to traditional norms in event planning. I have a diverse background in project management that to some's surprise translates *really* well into the world of weddings! I have been planning some kind of party or event since I was in high school (P.S. that was in the early 90's! But I’m a young AF ‘over the hill’). I have planned weddings in the Portland area since 2007. I am your hype girl ("You look stunning"), gatherer ("Let me put that on the calendar") and intent on guests having a good time ("No worries, I'm picking up another keg").
I worked in high tech for 19 years. I learned early on that I thrive being part of a team to reach a larger goal. I enjoy connecting people, teaching, mentoring and helping others - often leading me into functional operation roles as a: recruiter, hiring coordinator, welcome wagon, trainer and promoter of fun things. In 2011, I transitioned into business-to-business marketing developing a variety of digital content and planning product introductions. The fast paced environment and collaboration needed to internationally launch new products is exciting --- whether its a new technology OR a newly wedded union. :) And bonus, if you're on the nerdy side, I am semi-fluent in IT and engineer speak!
I enjoy the wedding industry so much, I've also started working for other fellow vendors when I am not helping my own clients. I am a DJ for NW Mobile DJ Service and also have operated photo booths for venues and photographers. You may also see me at Botanica Floral + Home on holiday weekends. Occasionally, when other planners need an experienced, hit-the-ground-running helper, I work as a site coordinator or event assistant. This first hand experience in a variety of vendor roles only complements my expertise in overall planning and executing your wedding vision.
Do I only plan weddings? Heck no! I plan all kinds of parties. Life is full of events, many are life changing like going all out for a milestone birthday and even celebrating a recent divorce --- so why not raise a glass with your nearest and dearest? One of my personal favorite ways to celebrate is with casual (but classy and thoughtful) cocktail party. Cocktail parties can range from an elaborate catered event at a venue to an intimate gathering at your favorite bar. In fact... you could even have a cocktail party AS your wedding reception! Past clients know I have a thing for customized giant ice cubes and welcome cocktails or punches! I also was an event volunteer with the Q Center, Portland’s LGBTQ2SIA+ community center sponsoring #iDoAtTheQ and the chair of the annual SHINE galas in 2018 and 2019.
Recap... I'm a party person but I also get things done in a variety of roles & settings. I have 25+ years of experience as an event planner & project manager for private, non-profit, & corporate events, all with drastically different budgets. I dig in and get things done on event day to make any event fun and fantastic. I have a wonderful network of local vendors that I recommend specific to your desires and needs for your event. I will be honest and direct but we will have plenty of laughs along the way, too.
In my free time, I enjoy discovering new music, going to concerts, tending to my many houseplants, crafty projects, and regular meditation practice.
And all of that IS #AWEPDX - phew!
Contact me at (503) 899-8323 or jenn@awecelebrations.com today to learn more about how AWE Productions can help you plan your Portland, Oregon area wedding, cocktail party or event.