Meet Jacqueline Kirby | Wedding & Event Planner // Floral Preservation Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jacqueline Kirby and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jacqueline, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
The most important lesson my business has taught me is the power of surrounding myself with a strong, supportive network. It’s so crucial to work with vendors who not only share your vision but also genuinely encourage and inspire you. When you have people who believe in what you’re doing, it creates a positive, motivating environment that helps you grow. Not only do I surround myself with other vendors but other planner friends that we can bounce ideas off of and call for help when we need it – this has been an absolute game changer! We are not alone!

I’ve also learned that the right clients will always find their way to you. When you stay authentic and true to your values, the right fit just clicks—whether it’s in the way you communicate, the quality of your work, or the energy you bring. It’s not about trying to appeal to everyone, but about cultivating relationships with people who truly align with what you offer. For us, we EMBRACE non-traditional celebrations, highly personalized details, and ideas that are a bit “outside the box” because that is who we are and our favorite clients love us because this is exactly the type of celebration they want too.

All of this reminds me that business isn’t just about the work; it’s about the people we’re surrounded by, the partnerships we build, and the meaningful connections we create along the way — all while having fun and celebrating our madly in love couples.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Building two businesses—one wedding planning company and the other a premier floral preservation company—has been an intense, rewarding ride. What sets me apart is a relentless focus on creativity, quality, and constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether it’s designing an unforgettable event or preserving the florals from a wedding in a way that no one else does, I always strive to deliver something that people can connect with.

Moving both businesses to Las Vegas from Southern Utah was no small feat. I essentially had to start from scratch in a brand-new market. And let me tell you, it wasn’t a smooth ride. There was a lot of trial and error, a fair amount of failure, and countless late nights trying to figure out what was going to work. But with every setback, I learned something new, pivoted, and kept pushing forward. That’s how you get to where I am today—through grit, resilience, and a refusal to quit.

What I’m most proud of is how I’ve been able to grow two businesses in a highly competitive market. The level of creativity and attention to detail I bring to each project is what keeps my clients coming back, and that’s what fuels me to keep getting better. The process is never “done” for me. I’m constantly evaluating how I can improve the product, how to elevate the experience for my clients, and how to innovate in ways that others aren’t thinking about. I thrive on doing things differently and making an impact that’s unforgettable …. this is exactly why out clients love us. In a wedding market that is quick & flashy (elopements) or soft and timeless (weddings), we are BOLD and a sometimes a ‘little bit extra’ and we embrace that.

Let’s be real—being a business owner is tough. There’s no manual for how to navigate the constant juggling act of managing finances, marketing, operations, and all the logistics. There’s no magic formula, but you keep at it, you get smarter, and you adapt quickly. I’ve had to step outside of my comfort zone more times than I can count. Trying new things, experimenting with ideas that seemed risky, and finding ways to stand out in a crowded market—none of that’s easy, but it’s the stuff that makes the difference. What I’ve learned along the way is simple: Failure is part of the game. You can’t be afraid of it. If you’re not failing at something, you’re not pushing hard enough.

What I want the world to know is that I’m here to break the mold. Both of my businesses are about more than just offering a service; they’re about creating a unique experience and raising the bar. No shortcuts, no compromises—just pure, unrelenting dedication to my craft. And I’m just getting started.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Welcome to Vegas

Morning: Start with brunch Cafe Du Sud in Southern Highlands – this is my FAVORITE French bakery and their chocolate twist is my absolute favorite. It seriously feels like I’ve gone back to Paris.

Afternoon: We’d hit up the Bellagio Conservatory to see the seasonal floral exhibit—it’s always beautiful and the perfect spot for some photos (plus its free).

Happy Hour: While on the strip, we have to hit the chandelier bar at Cosmo and maybe a speakeasy or two! Classic Iconic Vegas.

Evening: Dinner at Herbs & Rye — you have to sit at the bar because the bartenders are phenomenal. Best steak dinner I’ve ever had.

Night: We’d wrap up the night with a trip to Stoney’s Rockin’ Country for a night of country music & dancing because I will always be a Texas girl at heart.

Day 2: Nature & Bar Hopping

Morning: A bit of an adventure to start with a hike to Arizona Hot Springs. It’s a beautiful spot to get out of the city and relax in natural hot springs during the hike. It’s a nice 6 miles round trip so we’ll get a workout in before we play the rest of the day!

Afternoon: After the hike, we’d grab lunch and head over to Henderson to check out Water Street for some bar hopping at local spots like Johnny Mac’s—it’s a laid-back, fun area with a ton of character and they have the best wings in town.

Happy Hour: Hanks has the BEST Martinis and they are strong. This is my favorite happy hour spot and you have to get there early to get a seat at the bar!

Dinner: Spaghetty Western: Time for Italian! The Bobbi and Something About Susan are my go-to’s and you’ll just have to come with me to find out what they are. 😉 Another local fav.

Day 3: Vegas Vibes & Relaxation

Morning: My favorite coffee shop in town — Coffee Class. They have fantastic food options (including a really amazing pot pie (yes, even for breakfast)).

Afternoon: We’d take a stroll through the Arts District to check out galleries, murals, and quirky shops. It’s a completely different side of Vegas that’s creative and offbeat. Hitting the Neon Museum and Mob Museum are also classic Vegas and definitely on the list.

Happy Hour: My favorite spot in the Arts District is Velveteen Rabbit (and we have to use their old-school photobooth in the back before we leave!) While we’re here, we’ll also pop over to Horse Trailer Hideout – a little more of a ‘dive’ bar, but the cocktails are strong and I absolutely go for the free popcorn and games!

Evening: GOLDEN KNIGHTS GAME!! You don’t have to be a hockey fan to enjoy a Golden Knights Game – they bring “Vegas” to the ice and it’s a whole experience. We’ll hit a game (and hopefully a Win!) before a quiet dinner at Block 9 in Henderson (my favorite local Thai place)

What an EPIC weekend. These 3 days are packed with almost ALL of my favorite places – we will eat and drink and experience our way through all the best that Las Vegas & Henderson have to offer.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I just want to take a moment to send a HUGE shoutout to the amazing planners & vendors in Las Vegas who welcomed me with open arms when I moved my business here — Especially my sweet friends Ashley & Andrea. You all truly made the transition so much smoother, and I can’t thank you enough for your encouragement, collaboration, and the sense of community you’ve given me. You’ve shown me the true power of building a supportive network, and I feel so lucky to be working alongside such talented and passionate professionals.

And to all the incredible vendors in Southern Utah—your continued support means the world to me. From every like, share, and shoutout on social media to the collaborations we’ve had, your belief in my work and your kindness have been such a driving force behind my growth. It’s been amazing to witness how much we can lift each other up in this industry, and I’m beyond grateful for each and every one of you who’s been part of this journey.

Lastly, to my amazing husband—thank you for always helping me figure out what works, supporting my crazy ideas, and even turning our garage into my floral preservation home studio so I can keep doing what I love. You’re the one who helps bring it all to life, and your belief in me is my biggest motivation. From the long nights of brainstorming to the hands-on help with the behind-the-scenes stuff, you’re always there and I’m so thankful for your unwavering support and love—there’s no way I could do this without you.

Website: www.sunraeplanning.com // www.impressivepetals.com

Instagram: @sunrae.planning // @impressive.petals

Linkedin: Jacqueline Kirby

Image Credits
@elizabethle_photography
@Mattalynnmason_photography
@Peytonmichellephoto
@Mareemiragliaphotography
@emilydawnphoto