Over the past 13 years, Lisa McAdams, of Lisa McAdams Events, has planned and coordinated weddings up and down Napa Valley — and beyond.
McAdams said one of the things she loves about her work is that first phone call with a new client, “where we have the best connection” and can already tell “we would make the best team.”
Assisting clients in the planning process, “and seeing the actual wedding come to fruition and having it turn out to be above and beyond” their expectations is “EVERYTHING,” she said.
“I have made some amazing friends along the way, vendors and clients, and every event is a learning experience; always changing and evolving.”
1. What was your childhood ambition?
To be a pediatrician and comedian.
2. What job would you like to try/not try?
Try: Cruise ship director.
Not try: Landscaper/gardener.
3. How did you get into the wedding industry?
In 2010 I was asked to assist at a wedding with another local wedding planner. After that first event I was hooked and knew I wanted to eventually do this as my main job.
4. What is the biggest challenge the wedding industry has faced?
COVID…and social media.
COVID for obvious reasons: having to postpone a whole year of events, then playing catch-up for the next couple of years was certainly challenging. Navigating masks, social distancing at a social event…whew!
Social media has changed people’s expectations. The videos and images that people want are 90% of the time out of budget. Trying to explain these price differences and expectations to someone who has this image in their head is difficult, and I get it, you want what you want! My job is to come in and present realistic expectations to my clients within budget, and still create the wedding of their dreams.
5. Who do you most admire in the business world?
Walt Disney — he had a dream and didn’t let anything get in his way. He kept trying, and never gave up. He had one idea that has now impacted billions of people.
6. What’s one thing Napa could do to help local businesses or the economy?
Lower rents, more affordable hotels and lodging. Maybe more local venues (could) host weddings at more reasonable prices so more local couples can afford to get married in their hometown.
7. If you could change one thing about the wedding industry, what would it be?
In the wedding industry specifically, getting back to the main idea that it is about a union of two people in love, and not about how your photos are going to translate onto Instagram.
8. What’s your favorite charity or nonprofit?
Whiskers, Tails and Ferals here in Napa Valley and always helping out the families at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
9. What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
I have a killer whale phobia. Is there a name for that?
10. What is one thing you hope to accomplish in your lifetime that you haven’t yet?
I would love to one day live abroad or own a home abroad. When my kids are old and grown, I want to also give them a place to go to.
Lisa McAdams can be reached at 707-363- 3566 or [email protected]
