Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanya Hendricks.
Hi Tanya, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve always been a planner at heart—an organizer by nature, with a love for details and a knack for pulling things together. Long before I ever stepped into the wedding world, I was working in the court system, planning events and coordinating trainings for various programs. That’s where my love for logistics and creative problem-solving really took root.
Then, a few friends asked me to help with their class reunions—and something just clicked. I absolutely loved it. The planning, the excitement, the joy on people’s faces when everything came together… I was hooked.
With a lot of encouragement (and a little leap of faith), I officially filed my Articles of Incorporation on November 2, 2006. I knew I had something special to offer—something uniquely me—but I couldn’t quite find the perfect name to capture it.
Then one day, my husband walked up behind me, gave me a little smile, and said,
“It’s your sweet Southern charm.”
And that was it. The moment Southern Charm Events was born. 💕
Since that day, I’ve been honored to walk alongside countless couples as they plan one of the most meaningful days of their lives. Each wedding is different, but every couple I work with becomes a part of my extended family. I pour my heart and soul into each event—and truthfully, they each take a piece of it with them.
Years ago, a very special bride lovingly called me her fairy godmother. That later evolved into what most people now know me as: The Wedding Mama—a nickname that has stuck with both my couples and my vendor friends. And I wear it with pride.
Over the years, I’ve continued to grow in this beautiful industry. I’m a long-standing member of the Association of Bridal Consultants, holding the designation of Professional Wedding Consultant, and also a Certified Wedding Planner through the Society of Certified Wedding Planners.
My superpower? Systems and forms! I love creating spreadsheets, timelines, checklists—anything that keeps things organized and on track. It’s my way of keeping the process smooth, calm, and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Southern Charm Events isn’t just a business—it’s my calling. And I’m so grateful for every person who’s trusted me with their most special moments. Whether you’re just getting started or deep in the planning process, I’m here for you—as your planner, your guide, and yes, your Wedding Mama. 💗
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My biggest hurdle has always been helping clients see the full scope of what a planner truly does behind the scenes. It’s not just timelines and table settings—it’s crisis management, family dynamics, vendor logistics, weather backup plans, and about 1,000 moving parts you never see. Helping them understand the value we bring before the day ever arrives has been a learning curve
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
You know, I think luck has played a part—but mostly in the form of being in the right place at the right time, and being willing to say yes when doors cracked open, even when I wasn’t totally sure what was on the other side. I’ve had my fair share of bad luck too—vendors canceling last-minute, hurricanes looming, and those weddings where everything that could go wrong tried to. But even in those moments, I learned how to think fast, lead with grace, and take care of my people. Bad luck has made me a better planner, and good luck has reminded me why I love what I do.
At the end of the day, I believe luck shows up for the prepared—and I’ve spent my whole life preparing to love people well, stay organized, and bring a little Southern hospitality to life’s most special days.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.southerncharmevents.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southerncharmevents/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SouthernCharmEvents
