Here at the International Academy of Wedding & Event Planning we are proud of our fantastic global team of tutors who educate, support and mentor our students throughout their course. Our tutors are not only skilled educators, they are also successful wedding and event industry entrepreneurs and business owners. Being able to draw on their own personal experience as wedding and event planners, designers and stylists, and running their own businesses, places them perfectly to advise and guide the next generation of industry professionals. Today I want to introduce you to the wonderful Lisa Macale, who tutors for our Australian campus. I asked Lisa to tell us about herself, her background, and experience in the industry.
How did you get into the industry?
Originally from New Zealand I moved to Brisbane, Australia in 2008. After getting married in 2012 I fell in love with the whole process and decided a new career in the wedding industry was for me. After finishing my Bachelor of Business degree I went on to complete a Diploma in Wedding Planning through the Academy. I also gained some practical work experience in the industry before I went on to start my wedding styling business Willow Tree Creative.
What is the most memorable event you have worked on?
I have been fortunate to style and coordinate some amazing weddings over the past few years. One of my favourites was at a beautiful private residence in the Byron Bay Hinterland. The wedding was so personal and unique to my couple and featured everything from a huge fireworks show to a wood fired pizza truck. What made the wedding was the stunning location and the fun atmosphere created by the guests.
I have also planned and styled a few wedding shoots that I absolutely loved. What I love most about styled shoots is that I can do something that truly reflects my style and that really captures the essence of my business.
What’s the best piece of career advice you have received?
A quote I heard back when I was at University was that ‘If you don’t plan, you’ve planned to fail’. This has really stuck with me over the years and I must admit I’m an extremely oragnised person. Having a clear plan and achievable goals set of my business each year has helped me to get to where I am today.
If your feeling inspired by Lisa’s story why not check out our Australian Academy courses, and find out more on how you could follow in Lisa’s footsteps.
All styling by Willow Tree Creative, photography by Juddric Photography.