Today we’d like to introduce you to Dana McCollum.
Hi Dana, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story began with an Air Force upbringing, moving across the country as my dad served, teaching me resilience and adaptability from a young age. In my early 20s, I married my husband, and we envisioned a life in ministry, following his father’s footsteps as a pastor in Brentwood, Tennessee. I never would have believed you if you had told me I’d start a small event planning business. Yet here I am in my 50s, challenging myself beyond my perceived capacity and loving every minute. Raising four children while serving churches nationwide sharpened my organizational and community-building skills, getting so good at packing that I once joked about starting a moving company. After our ministry season ended, I joined a local wedding venue as an event team member, discovering my passion for weddings. The key is not to give up or lose hope, even when life takes an unexpected turn. My faith and perseverance through these changes have built a strength and contentment that I bring to every event, creating meaningful experiences for my clients.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My path hasn’t been smooth, but struggles have shaped my sense of purpose. As a pastor’s wife, balancing ministry demands while raising four children brought emotional and logistical challenges, especially during relocations. Leaving the ministry felt like losing my identity, and starting over later in life was intimidating. Life is full of defining moments when you can play it safe or dream a new dream. It’s easy to get stuck comparing yourself with others in business or life, striving to get ahead. But I’ve learned that life isn’t about what I accumulate. I hope to be remembered for my character, faith in God, love for my family, and care for others. This perspective comes from surviving disappointment and loss. I’ve faced tough decisions, lived in 11 states, and called over 30 places home. My life has been shaped by transitions. With God’s grace and strength, these lessons inspire my work designing weddings and curating events that celebrate love and create lasting memories. I hope to help couples start their journeys with joy, ensuring every detail reflects their unique story. It’s an honor to be entrusted with such a special day.
As you know, we’re big fans of Dana Carroll Co.. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Dana Carroll Co. is a Nashville-based wedding and event planning business rooted in my journey of faith and resilience after years as a pastor’s wife. Inspired by my parents’ legacy of hospitality, I create timeless celebrations that reflect each couple’s love story. We specialize in classic-styled weddings, guiding clients with care through every detail to ensure a joyful, stress-free day. We offer full wedding planning and design in Nashville’s vibrant market.
My 32-year marriage fuels my belief in enduring love, inspiring me to treat couples like family and instill hope in their future. My hands-on industry experience and faith-driven approach ensure flawless execution with a personal touch. I’m known for crafting elegant, meaningful events that weave a couple’s vision into every moment, from venue selection to the final grand exit. My life of transition taught me to find joy in new beginnings, which I bring to every wedding and event I plan.
I’m most proud of the trust couples place in Dana Carroll Co., sharing their dreams with me as we customize celebrations that honor their love story. Our brand stands for elegance and empathy, reflecting my parents’ legacy of service and my journey of rebuilding a life of purpose. Every wedding we plan is a testament to God’s provision and the beauty of new chapters. Dana Carroll Co. crafts tailored weddings that leave hearts full of gratitude, offering full planning and design to bring each unique story to life.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Empathy is at the heart of everything I do as a wedding and event planner. During my years as a pastor’s wife, I sat with women through their highs and lows, learning to listen and connect authentically. Planning my daughter’s wedding showed me the rollercoaster of emotions mothers of the bride feel—I’ve been there myself. Leading with empathy helps me understand each couple’s vision, weaving their love story into every detail. At Dana Carroll Co., I pour my heart into crafting elegant weddings that feel like family celebrations, deeply personal and unforgettable. Rooted in faith, my approach builds trust. I’m excited to bring this heartfelt connection to other people in the future, with meaningful experiences that resonate long after the day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.danacarrollco.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danamccollum?igsh=dzc1ZWppZXFkem00&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danacarrollco?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-mccollum-6389a213a/
- Other: https://substack.com/@danamccollum?r=2fqsrk&utm_medium=ios
