Meet Lydia Leek | Owner & Lead Planner, A Touch of Gray Events

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lydia Leek and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lydia, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
My understanding of work–life balance has changed dramatically over time.

Early in my career, balance meant proving myself. I believed that working more, saying yes to everything, and staying constantly busy was the price of success. I tied productivity to worth and felt pressure to always be “on,” especially in an industry where long days and weekends are the norm.

Motherhood shifted that perspective in a big way. I began to see balance not as a perfect split of time, but as alignment—does my work support the life I’m trying to build, or compete with it? That question changed how I made decisions, from the clients I take on to how I structure my services and my calendar.

Today, I think of balance as seasonal and intentional. There are times when work requires more of me, and times when family or rest needs to take priority—and both are valid. I’ve learned that boundaries, systems, and saying no are not limitations; they’re what allow me to do my best work and stay present in my life.

Balance for me now isn’t about doing it all. It’s about doing what matters most, with clarity and care, and allowing my business to serve my life—not the other way around.

What should our readers know about your business?
A Touch of Gray Events is a boutique wedding planning and coordination company rooted in intention, trust, and calm leadership. At its core, my business exists to support couples not just through the logistics of a wedding, but through the emotional weight that comes with planning such a meaningful milestone.

What sets me apart is how personal my approach is. I intentionally take on a limited number of weddings each year so I can be fully present for every client and every detail. I’m known for being steady, organized, and deeply invested—someone couples can lean on when decisions feel overwhelming. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all planning or chasing trends; I focus on creating weddings that feel like a true reflection of the couple and the legacy they’re beginning together.

Business-wise, getting here wasn’t easy or linear. Like many entrepreneurs, I faced doubt early on—being told this career wasn’t realistic, especially in my area. I took a few wrong turns trying to find something safer or more traditional, but eventually found my footing as a venue manager at a local wedding venue. Those five years gave me hands-on experience, confidence, and a deep understanding of what couples actually need on a wedding day.

Starting my own business brought its own challenges: financial uncertainty, long hours, and learning how to balance growth with personal life—especially after becoming a mother. I had to redefine what success looked like and give myself permission to build a business that supported my life instead of consuming it. Over time, I learned that boundaries, systems, and clarity are not limitations—they’re what allow creativity and sustainability to exist.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that success doesn’t have to be loud, fast, or traditional. Some of the most meaningful growth has come from slowing down, refining my offerings, and trusting my instincts. I’ve also learned the value of saying no—to the wrong clients, the wrong expectations, and the idea that more is always better.

What I’m most proud of is the trust my clients place in me and the reputation I’ve built for honesty, loyalty, and calm guidance. My brand is named after my grandfather, who embodied those values, and I carry that legacy into everything I do.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that this work is deeply personal. I care about how weddings feel, not just how they look. I believe you can build a meaningful career while honoring family, presence, and purpose—and that success is most powerful when it’s aligned with who you truly are.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1 – Settle In + Cozy Welcome

I’d start slow and welcoming. We’d grab dinner somewhere warm and familiar—good food, no rush—and ease into the week with long conversations and an early night. The goal is comfort, not cramming.

Day 2 – Classic Atlanta Exploring

We’d spend the morning strolling through Ponce City Market—coffee, shopping, and people-watching. Lunch would be casual but delicious, then we’d head to the Atlanta BeltLine for a walk and to soak in the city’s creative energy.
That evening, we’d do appetizers with a skyline view and dinner somewhere lively but not pretentious.

Day 3 – Slow Morning + Shopping

This would be a slower day—coffee, brunch, and wandering local shops. I love days that leave room for discovery, popping into stores that catch your eye, and letting the day unfold naturally. Dinner would be somewhere cozy with great ambiance and even better conversation.

Day 4 – North Georgia Mountains Escape

We’d head north for fresh air and scenery—one of the best parts of this area. A short hike, scenic drive, or waterfall stop followed by lunch in a charming mountain town. Think antique stores, small boutiques, and a peaceful pace that makes you forget what day it is.

Day 5 – Homebody Day (The Best Kind)

This would be a stay-in day—sleeping in, cooking together, maybe baking something nostalgic, and just being. These are always the days that end up being remembered most. In the evening, we’d go out for a low-key dinner or grab takeout and watch a movie.

Day 6 – Food + Fun

We’d make this a “yes” day—trying a restaurant we’ve been meaning to visit, maybe a local event, live music, or a seasonal market. Somewhere with great energy and a sense of community. Dessert would be fun but not overdone—more laughter than late nights.

Day 7 – Meaningful Wrap-Up

On the last day, we’d do brunch somewhere special, walk somewhere pretty, and reflect on the week. I always love ending trips with space to talk about life, dreams, and what’s next—those conversations that make you feel grounded and inspired at the same time.

What I’d Want Them to Feel

More than anything, I’d want my best friend to leave feeling welcomed, inspired, and at ease. The best parts of this area aren’t just the places—it’s the slower pace, the mix of creativity and nature, and the sense that life doesn’t always have to be rushed to be full.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many people and influences that deserve credit in my story, but a few stand out most clearly.

First and foremost, my family. Their support—especially during seasons of uncertainty, long weekends, and big life transitions—has meant more than I can put into words. My grandfather, in particular, continues to be a guiding presence in my life. He embodied loyalty, honesty, and quiet strength, and those values are the foundation of both who I am and how I run my business. Naming my company after him was one of the most meaningful decisions I’ve ever made.

I also want to recognize the mentors and colleagues I’ve learned from along the way—especially during my years working at a local wedding venue. Being immersed in the industry early on taught me lessons no book ever could, and the people I worked alongside helped shape my confidence, professionalism, and leadership style.

And finally, I’d give a quiet shoutout to the books, stories, and creative influences that sparked this dream long before it felt possible. From wedding shows I watched as a child to stories that romanticized meaningful work, those early inspirations planted seeds that eventually grew into a career—even when others said it wasn’t realistic.

None of this was built alone. Every step forward was influenced by encouragement, example, and belief from others, and I carry that with me in everything I do.

Website: https://atouchofgrayevents.com

Instagram: @atouchofgrayevents

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atouchofgrayevents

Image Credits
The Taylors Photography