get to know ilana

Hey, I'm Ilana.

I’m the wedding and event planner who founded Pine + Palette Events. I’m a Wisconsin local with a soft spot for love stories, tall midwestern pines, and the way the sun sets over The Great Lakes.  As a former middle school science teacher, organization and multitasking are my second nature. 

My passion for weddings and events stemmed from my years working at a prominent Wisconsin wedding and event venue while in college. After spending long days in the chemistry lab or identifying moth species in the entomology room, I would hustle over to my evening job at the venue. I was surrounded by anniversary celebrations, baby showers, and beautiful parties. I watched brides gleam as they walked down the aisle and grooms melt with love in their eyes. Every moment felt significant. I was hooked. 

I’ve always had a knack for science, so I felt it was natural for me to combine my love for people, organizational skills, and attention to detail into a career in science education. While the classroom brought lots of laughter, joy, and connection, I missed my time working with events. 

Fast forward a bit and here I am, pursuing my passion as a wedding and event planner at Pine + Palette Events. Scroll down to learn more!

a few quick facts about me...

  • my animals

    fur, spots, & scales

    I’m a huge animal lover, so I’ve always found myself with a “collection” of pets. I share my home with a silly English bulldog, spunky Bengal cat, and slithering Western Hognose snake.

  • hobbies and interests

    my secret talents

    Over the years, I've worked to perfect my craft in watercolor painting, downhill skiing, charcoal sketch, and gourmet cooking. My quirkiest talent would have to be my Tarot card reading abilities which I picked up in college! I've always loved learning new things and pushing my boundaries.

  • exploring the world

    my favorite travel spot

    The California Redwood Forest is where my mind drifts off to when I picture my "happy place". The misty mountains, towering Sequoias, and lush forest floor remind me of the enchanted forests I read about as a little girl. Wandering deep into the woods feels magical.​

  • favorite music

    musicians that I love

    I’ve been listening to great music since I was born. Live concerts, outdoor festivals, and cozy coffee shops with acoustic artists tug at my heartstrings. The Beatles, Prince, Dave Matthews Band, Guns & Roses, Mt. Joy, and Caamp are a few of my favorites.​

  • my family

    my love story

    As a sophomore in high school, I met my husband. My heart skipped a beat when I made eye contact with him in the hallway. At that moment, I  knew he was the one. Seven years later, we said “I do” at an intimate November wedding and never looked back.

my unique wedding planning process

My secret to planning a seamless wedding.

Do you have a million and one details to manage? Not a problem. Jobs to delegate and deadlines to make? Easy. Vendors to pay and a budget to stick to? We’ve got this.

The seamless sidekick to my wedding planning process is the digital platform I use to keep details organized, couples in the loop, and tasks prioritized. You will get a custom login to access your wedding planning details 24/7, create custom wedding inspiration boards, delegate tasks to your BFFs, and much more.

Learn More