THE PLANNERS
Madison VanderKolk
FOUNDER • LEAD PLANNER, COORDINATOR & STYLIST
​In 2020, I launched Elysian Weddings + Events (formerly Made By Mads) with a singular goal: to turn wedding planning into a joyous and accessible adventure for all! After graduating from the University of Colorado, Boulder (can I get a Sko Buffs?), I was certain I wanted to dive into an industry that fueled my creativity and independence. The irresistible pull of planning and socializing eventually guided me to the enchanting world of weddings, and Elysian was born! Driven by my type-A personality and outgoing spirit, I take the lead in guiding couples through the planning process while adding in a healthy dose of fun. My mission is to ensure you and your partner feel stress-free and genuinely ecstatic about your wedding day! As a firm believer in words of affirmation, consider me your most enthusiastic cheerleader and advocate.
Let's kick off this celebration – together, we're going to make it an absolute blast!
Fun Facts:
• I sing for a local choir
• I love playing volleyball year round
• I'm a HUGE dessert girl - the way to my heart is through sweets
• When I'm not at your wedding, you can find me in the mountains either hiking, skiing, or camping
Dawn Hershiser
LEAD PLANNER, COORDINATOR & STYLIST
Welcome! I grew up in Southern California & graduated college with an interior design degree from FIDM. I moved to Colorado in 2001 & feel incredibly lucky to call this beautiful state my home. Raising two amazing daughters who were very active with school, music, & year-round sports, made me an expert on planning detailed schedules! I love helping couples navigate the process of planning, designing, & making their vision become a reality. With my background in design, I am able to think outside the box & find creative solutions to any situation. So when someone tells me an idea is “impossible”...I say…BRING IT ON! My goal is to cheer you on, make planning enjoyable & to provide you with an experience that leaves you feeling stress-free & relaxed. There is nothing more important than being able to give the couples I work with the time to be present with the people they love on their special day!
Fun Facts:
• I am a “cat mom” to 3 rescues
• I’ve been a fitness instructor for over 35 years
• I’ve lived in 7 different states
• I always pick salty over sweet​
Kaitlyn Ratliff
ASSOCIATE PLANNER, COORDINATOR & STYLIST
Hello! My name is Kaitlyn Ratliff, and I am an assistant planner and coordinator with Elysian Weddings + Events. After spending the past decade planning events and working alongside some of the best vendors in the industry, I finally took the leap—joining forces with Maddy & Dawn at Elysian while also launching my own company, Disco Dahlia Events. My passion lies in creating seamless, stunning events that reflect each couple’s unique vision. Outside of planning, you’ll find me crafting, camping, cheering at sporting events, or singing along at concerts. You can usually catch me in a black jumpsuit, but I’ll always jump at the chance to match your color palette! With a deep love for collaboration and an eye for detail, I’m your favorite vendor’s favorite vendor—ready to bring your dream day to life with creativity, expertise, and a touch of fun. Let’s make magic together!
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Fun facts:
• I am addicted to Dr. Pepper, and proud
• My Dad bought me a bow and taught me how to shoot when I was 9
• Camping and outdoor adventures are some of my favorite ways to spend time with friends and family
• I was a music major my first year of college, and I've been to over 100 concerts​
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