In the fall of 2019, I joined a coworking space called The Locality and first met Kaitlin Stammetti. I was blown away by Kaitlin’s attention to detail, care for our community, interest in others and multi-passionate personality. It wasn’t until well over a year later when Kaitlin said, “I think you know my mother-in-law” that I realized we had one of my favorite people in common (and, of course, I was kicking myself for not making the connection about such a unique last name sooner!). Kaitlin makes those around her feel welcome and seen every single time you get to interact with her. After being in many rooms where it’s so much harder to feel truly appreciated and wanted, I am keenly aware of both how rare and how necessary her skill set is in that regard, and I’m so very grateful for how Kaitlin makes all of us better around her. Her care for individuals and community alike is truly a gift. Enjoy this peek inside the mind and heart of this absolute rock star!

About Kaitlin Stammetti

Kaitlin Stammetti is a vibrant redhead whose zest for life infuses every aspect of her work. With an insatiable curiosity for all things event planning, she fearlessly dives into every facet of the industry she encounters. From corporate events to managing event venues, from orchestrating catering sales for both large-scale operations and intimate boutique caterers to dabbling in floral design, Kaitlin's journey in the field has been diverse and dynamic.

Her multifaceted experience has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of event planning from various angles, making her a versatile and invaluable asset to any project. Armed with a strong sense of direction and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Kaitlin approaches each event with a well-rounded perspective and an infectious enthusiasm that ensures every detail is meticulously attended to. Whether crafting a corporate affair or an intimate gathering, Kaitlin's passion and expertise guarantee a memorable and flawlessly executed event.

Alongside her husband Sal, Kaitlin is an incredible mom to her two sons, Briggs and Harrison. Kaitlin is a Raleigh native and graduate of Enloe High School and Meredith College with a background in theatre, dance and English literature. She is focused on inclusion and honesty in the wedding industry, striving for authentic and compassionate interactions while supporting all love and providing a top-notch experience as she creates each event to be as unique as each client.

First Friday Female Founder Feature:

Kaitlin Stammetti

How would you describe your company and the products / services you offer?

At Rowan Lane Events, we pride ourselves on being more than just a wedding planning company; we're advocates for transparency and inclusion within the wedding industry. Our mission is to create unforgettable experiences for couples while championing diversity and equality in every aspect of their special day.

Meanwhile, Rowan Lane Coaching emerged during the challenging times of the pandemic. It's a dedicated platform where I collaborate with small business owners who are striving to overcome specific obstacles hindering their growth or processes. Through tailored guidance and strategic support, we empower entrepreneurs to navigate their business hurdles with confidence and clarity.

Why did you start your company?

I embarked on my journey in the events industry by immersing myself in various roles, ranging from venue management to catering and floral design. Through these diverse experiences, I gained invaluable insights into the intricacies of orchestrating memorable events from multiple perspectives.

My motivation for starting my company stemmed from a desire to leverage this comprehensive understanding of event execution to provide unparalleled support and perspective directly to clients. I recognized the need for a holistic approach in event planning, one that seamlessly integrates various aspects of the industry to meet the unique needs of each client. This aspiration ultimately fueled the inception of my company, enabling me to offer a tailored and informed approach to event planning that prioritizes the client's vision and satisfaction above all else.

What has been the most rewarding part of your journey in founding this company?

The most rewarding aspect of founding this company has been witnessing the culmination of our clients' journey on their wedding day. Knowing that they have arrived at this moment surrounded by a team of vendors who genuinely love and support them is incredibly fulfilling. It's gratifying to see the joy and satisfaction on their faces as they celebrate their special day, knowing that we've played a part in bringing their vision to life and creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

About what are you most proud?

I am most proud of my family. I have two incredible boys, Briggs, who is 5 years old, and Harrison, who is 20 months old, as well as an amazing husband, Sal. They bring so much joy and laughter into my life, and I couldn't be more proud of each of them. They are my greatest blessings and the source of my greatest pride.

Are you naturally organized, was it a skill you learned or is it something with which you regularly struggle, and what tips or tools do you use to stay your most organized?

I would describe myself as intermittently organized. I've faced challenges with ADHD, which can lead to fluctuations in my organizational skills. There are moments of hyperactivity followed by times when I may feel less enthusiastic about tackling a large workload. However, recognizing these tendencies, I've implemented a significant amount of structure in both my business and personal life.

To maintain consistency and manage overwhelm, I've developed robust systems and processes. These frameworks serve as anchors during busy periods and help me streamline tasks, often acting as an 'easy button' when I'm feeling overwhelmed. Despite the occasional struggles, these strategies have been instrumental in staying organized and productive.

Who’s the one person who changed your life and why?

The one person who profoundly changed my life is my dad. When he married my mom when I was just three years old, he brought a sense of stability and structure into my life that was crucial for my growth and development. His presence provided me with the support and guidance that every child needs to thrive. I am immensely grateful for his influence and can't imagine where I would be without him.

What words of wisdom would you have for someone who is overwhelmed with staying organized and / or productive?

When feeling overwhelmed with staying organized and productive, my advice is to start small. Identify one task that can be completed within a 10-minute timeframe but might become a bigger issue if postponed. Whether it's organizing a cluttered desk or responding to a quick email, addressing these small tasks promptly can prevent them from snowballing into larger problems later on. By tackling these manageable tasks as they arise, you'll build momentum and gain a sense of accomplishment, ultimately easing feelings of overwhelm.

Do you use technology to help stay productive or organized? If so, what’s your favorite program, app or tech tool?

Yes! I use Honeybook and Google Drive to work with my clients. I also live and die by my phone calendar! But never underestimate the power of writing something down.

How do you feel about work / life efficiency or integration in your life, including any tips or challenges for managing the personal and professional commitments in your life?

Hot take: I share my work calendar with my spouse. It saves us a lot of time when he needs to know if I’m available or in a meeting or if I have events scheduled for certain days. It’s not for everyone but it works for us.

About what causes are you most passionate?

I am most passionate about advocating for inclusivity and authenticity in weddings and unions. I firmly believe that everyone deserves to celebrate their love in a way that truly reflects their unique identity and values. My mission is to uplift my clients and empower them to create meaningful, personalized celebrations that resonate with who they are as individuals and as a couple.

For non-traditional couples, the conventional structure of weddings can feel restrictive and rooted in patriarchal norms. I am deeply committed to dismantling these constraints and reshaping the wedding experience into a canvas where every couple can paint their own narrative. I relish in the opportunity to take the traditional framework of a wedding and infuse it with creativity and innovation, ensuring that each event becomes a bespoke work of art.

Ultimately, my passion lies in championing love in all its forms and providing a platform for couples to express their authentic selves without conforming to societal expectations. It's not about fitting into a mold; it's about co-creating a celebration that celebrates the beautiful diversity of love and relationships.

What have you found to be the most effective way to relax after a long day or super long week?

After a long day or a particularly hectic week, I find solace in indulging my inner TV enthusiast. I love immersing myself in the latest trending shows and staying current with what everyone is talking about. When I finally have some quiet time after putting the kids to bed, you'll often find me cozied up on the couch with a glass of wine and a bowl of popcorn, fully engrossed in the 'must-watch' show of the moment. It's my go-to way to unwind and recharge, allowing me to escape into captivating storylines and momentarily forget the stresses of the day.

What is your favorite author / book?

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith.

What is your favorite inspirational quote?

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better.” - Maya Angelou .

What is your go-to accessory?

Apple Watch for the win!

What are the fundamentals of your beauty routine?

Moisturize me, Moisturize me! - Lady Cassandra - but, for real, a good moisturizer, and getting my brows tinted, and I never forget the sunscreen!

What is your favorite food?

Spaghetti with bolognese.

Of the locally-owned and -operated establishments in the place you currently live, which are your favorites and why?

One of my top favorite locally owned and operated establishments is The Flourish Market, a boutique with a meaningful mission encapsulated in their tagline, 'Every product has a purpose.' Supporting such a socially conscious small business resonates deeply with me, knowing that my purchases contribute to positive impacts beyond just acquiring goods.

Additionally, I have a penchant for sourcing second-hand treasures, whether it's furniture or art. There's something incredibly rewarding about giving new life to pre-loved items and finding unique pieces that add character to my home. Not only does it fulfill my love for sustainable shopping, but it also allows me to connect with items that carry their own stories and history.

What is your favorite place that you have visited?

Ireland

What movie could you watch on endless loop?

The Mummy

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Invisibility

What advice would you give your 21-year old self?

Start investing in yourself. Emotionally and financially!

If you could have lunch with anyone (living or deceased), who would it be and why?

I recently came across a thought-provoking video where couples were asked whom they would choose to have lunch with, and their responses typically included renowned figures like Gandhi, Mother Teresa, or Abraham Lincoln – truly inspiring choices. However, what struck me most was when the same question was posed to children, and unanimously, their answer was 'my mom and dad.'

As a parent myself, this simple yet profound response reminded me of the immense love and importance children place on spending time with their parents. It reflects the depth of their world and the significance of their relationships. While they may not be familiar with historical figures like Gandhi, they instinctively choose the individuals they love and cherish the most.

Reflecting on this, I encourage everyone to take a moment to reconnect with their parents if they're still around. Whether it's inviting them to lunch, giving them a call, or including them in events, these small gestures can rekindle the bonds that were once everything to us. Amidst life's growing complexities, returning to that precious connection may just be the most fulfilling 'meal' we can experience.

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