We are a week post-open house, and after all the feedback we received, it felt necessary to share some experiences that took place.

Open houses are meant to be a fun and inspiring bridal experience—a chance to sample food and drinks, meet vendors, gather information, and find inspiration. Some are small and intimate; others are grand and elaborate. Over the years, we’ve encouraged our vendors to bring their best to the table—literally. No matter the turnout, they leave with new knowledge, stronger connections, and, yes, a little less money. But ultimately, they walk away feeling fulfilled.

This year, we centered our open house theme around travel. We wanted guests to feel inspired by the variety of weddings from around the world, so we incorporated elements like passports, check-in desks, and a terminal-inspired design. Our planners embraced the theme and created incredible spaces filled with thoughtful details. As a guest, you saw fun themes, intricate textures, and captivating decor. But what you didn’t see might have been the best part of the open house.

Open houses aren’t just for couples—they’re for vendors, too. They give vendors the chance to share their designs, explore creative ideas without constraints, and build community. If you’ve ever been around during setup, you know it’s three days of unloading, arranging, and troubleshooting. But just as much time is spent catching up, laughing, sharing struggles and triumphs, and even shedding a few tears. No one loves to talk more than someone in the event industry, and in a job that constantly pours into others, these moments of camaraderie mean everything.

On day one of setup, the excitement is evident. Vendors begin seeing their visions come to life, making quick adjustments, and reconnecting with both longtime frendors and newcomers. It is a beautiful thing to witness—florists gathered in one space, planners chatting with other planners, and even those who might typically see each other as competition sharing laughter and camaraderie. Day 2 brings even more excitement as designs take shape, and by Day 3, it's time to gear up for the big day. The process looks different for everyone, but you get the gist—it's a whirlwind of creativity, collaboration, and last-minute magic.

My experience this year was different, and I feel compelled to share just how impactful it was. I’ve been involved in this open house from the very beginning—conceptualizing the overall idea, creating designs, and figuring out how to bring people through the doors. AJ spent countless hours managing logistics, ensuring every detail was in place. And when I say she was on top of it, I mean she could put a presidential chief of staff to shame. This girl is a true gem, and if you don't know her, you should. The entire Osage team played a part, stepping up in ways big and small. I feel it's appropriate to share this now seeing the success of our open house, but let’s just say the overall idea started with the layers of an onion. I’ll leave it at that, but now you know how much this event evolved. 

In addition to my role at Osage, I had my own space to design as a planner, but personal life events made my attendance uncertain. The day before setup, I received difficult news about my dad’s health, and as vendors were setting up, they started asking, “Are you okay? What’s going on? What do you need?” Two mama vendors (shoutout to Ovation & Darling Blooms) told me I needed to go be with my family and that everything would be taken care of—so I did. I left, handing over my space to my assistant and a team of vendors.

The next morning, I started receiving texts—words of encouragement, thoughts and prayers, and compliments on my space. My assistant sent pictures, asking for guidance, knowing how particular I am about details. But what moved me most was this: they weren’t just asking about my assistant or the vendors I partnered with. They were asking about what Ashley, the owner, could do next, if I liked what Jessica from JLK had done with the tablescape or how I felt about Sam from Kindred Blooms floral suggestion. These were people with no obligation to my space, yet they stepped in.

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In the event industry, things just get done, and sometimes we don’t know exactly how. But the overwhelming gratitude I felt was unlike anything I expected. These were vendors who had their own businesses, their own spaces, and their own responsibilities, yet they made time to support me and the design of the chapel. They didn’t have to text, didn’t have to step in, didn’t have to care—but they did. In this industry, we are not just vendors- we're a community.

Most of us in the event industry, I suspect, are Enneagram 2s at heart—driven to serve others. Open house events aren’t profitable in the moment. In fact, vendors invest hundreds, sometimes thousands, of dollars to participate with maybe nothing in return. But when you see a florist carrying in flowers that aren’t theirs or a planner stuffing gift bags that have nothing to do with them, you are reminded that there are selfless people in this world who will step up when it matters most. When you consider who you hire for your wedding, you aren’t just paying for their service, you’re paying for their passion, their soul, and who they are as a person. Find the right people for your day, and you'll be surrounded by those who genuinely care- making your day infinitely more memorable.

For Osage House, this event is more than just an opportunity to open our doors—it’s a reminder of the talent, heart, and dedication that define our industry. The work that happens here extends far beyond one day; it strengthens connections, fuels creativity, and reinforces the trust that couples place in us and our vendors. Seeing our spaces come to life in such meaningful ways reaffirms why we do what we do, and we couldn’t be more grateful to be part of a community that continuously raises the bar.

To our vendors—you are the heartbeat of this event. Your time, resources, and creativity bring these spaces to life in ways that inspire not only couples but also each other. You pour your energy into every detail, often going above and beyond what is expected, simply because you care. You share ideas, troubleshoot last-minute hiccups, and step in wherever help is needed, proving time and time again that this industry is built on more than just business—it’s built on relationships. Osage House would not be what it is without you. Your willingness to collaborate, experiment, and push creative boundaries transforms this venue into something magical. This open house is a reflection of what makes our community so incredible, and we are honored to provide a space where that magic can unfold.

This event would not happen without all of you, but we want to extend a special thanks to a few vendors...

Bravis—Wow. You made a big concept feel effortless. As a vendor outside the wedding industry, this was a risk, but it was so worth it. We truly wouldn’t have made this theme what it was without y’all.

Mint2Mix—Rona and her team knocked it out of the park, and our stunning bar wouldn’t have been possible without Alchemy bringing in the best inventory. Rona's drinks are incredible and her willingness to continue to partner with us specifically is essential to our success. 

Alchemy—Your team absolutely killed it, from setup to strike. You always step in where help is needed, and we are so grateful.

Kindred Blooms—We wanted plants instead of flowers, and you said how high. Absolute perfection.

Dancenhance—Anna, you are seriously one of the hardest workers I know. What you do and what you bring can sometimes go unnoticed because it naturally fits into a space, but we are so grateful to you for bringing us drapery, tables, dance floors, whatever it is we need- you’ll find it.

Accents by Ovation—Brooke and Bryan, your generosity knows no bounds. You give your time, energy, and even your money to bring ideas to life. And when the wall blew over, you built it again. Brooke helped execute designs, offered suggestions, found solutions (thank god), and supported us every step of the way.

To all the planners—Your creativity, dedication, and sheer talent brought this open house to life in ways we couldn’t have imagined. From intricate designs to last-minute problem-solving, you showed up and gave your all. Seeing you collaborate, support one another, and pour your hearts into every detail was inspiring. We are beyond grateful for each of you.

Ashley—This event wouldn’t happen without you. Literally. Our open house isn’t just about showcasing Osage- it brings our community together and inspires so many couples.

AJ—There are no words. Your work ethic and professionalism leave us in awe. You do your job so well, and though I wish you spoke up more in meetings, your drive, support, and attention to detail are unmatched. We would be lost without you. 

To myself- you killed it!

To the Osage team—Stephanie and Morgan, y’all are so supportive and willing to step up when we needed it. You do the big, impactful work all year so this is your time to sit back and relax but you never do!

To everyone who attended, followed along, or supported our vendors—thank you. We hope you enjoyed your time at OHX Airlines, and we wish you a lifetime of love and happiness.