Image Source: CNBC
Kerry Washington’s Support for an Innovative Wedding Startup
In a remarkable intersection of celebrity and entrepreneurship, Kerry Washington has become the lead investor in a new startup called Cheersy, founded by the dynamic Amy Shack Egan. This exciting venture aims to revolutionize the wedding planning industry by connecting couples with pre-vetted wedding coordinators, thereby simplifying the wedding planning experience.
From Wedding Planning to Tech Entrepreneurship
Amy Shack Egan’s journey into the wedding industry began ten years ago when she assisted a friend with her wedding. At the time, she was navigating life as a recent college graduate and working three jobs in New York City. She quickly discovered a passion for event planning, leading her to establish her first business, Modern Rebel, in 2015. Egan’s company, known for its unconventional approach to wedding planning, has since executed over 500 weddings.
Despite the success of Modern Rebel, Egan recognized a significant gap in the market: many couples find the process of coordinating their weddings overwhelming and often require professional help. This observation led to the creation of Cheersy in February 2025. Egan envisioned a platform that would streamline the process of finding reliable wedding coordinators without the hassle of navigating tricky online marketplaces.
The Power of Networking in Securing Investment
Egan, who had no prior experience in fundraising, embarked on the pre-seed funding journey for Cheersy by leveraging her network. A serendipitous dinner party introduced her to Kerry Washington’s team, and a conversation about Cheersy’s mission soon piqued Washington’s interest. Their meeting was described by Egan as surreal, and Washington’s enthusiastic support became a significant validation of Cheersy’s vision.
“When I met Kerry, it was an immediate ‘yes’ the first time we had a meeting,” Egan shared. Washington’s belief in the company’s mission—that all couples should feel seen and celebrated—aligned perfectly with Egan’s vision.
Cheersy: Bridging the Gap in Wedding Services
With the backing of high-profile investors like Washington, along with founders from notable companies such as SoulCycle and Milk Bar, Cheersy successfully raised $550,000 in its inaugural funding round. The platform aims to alleviate the burdens of wedding planning by providing access to trusted professionals, thereby enhancing the overall experience for couples.
Egan’s approach as a founder is rooted in her rich experience as a wedding planner and her deep empathy for couples navigating this significant life event. “I respect and value the service, and I see how important it is,” she stated, emphasizing her commitment to both the couples and coordinators in this evolving industry.
Facing Challenges as an Expecting Entrepreneur
In a twist to her entrepreneurial journey, Egan recently announced she is expecting twins, adding another layer of complexity to her startup endeavors. Originally intending to launch Cheersy’s seed round in 2025, she is now strategically planning to adjust her schedule to accommodate her growing family. “It’s a unique challenge, and I’m up for it,” she remarked, showcasing her resilience and adaptability as a founder.
As Egan prepares for an upcoming round of funding and strives to expand Cheersy’s user base, her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women in business. The intersection of her personal and professional challenges reflects the nuanced journey of a startup founder, highlighting that success is rarely a straight path.
The Future of Cheersy and the Wedding Industry
With Cheersy, Amy Shack Egan is not only innovating within the traditional wedding planning space but is also reshaping how couples can connect with essential services. Her collaboration with Kerry Washington adds an exciting layer to the startup, setting a promising stage for future growth and influence in the wedding industry.
Stay Tuned for Groundbreaking Developments
As Cheersy continues to develop, the evolving landscape of wedding planning awaits its next chapter, with Amy Shack Egan at the helm and Kerry Washington’s support lighting the way. It’s a testament to how passion, networking, and innovation can combine to create significant change.
FAQs
What is Cheersy?
Cheersy is a digital platform founded by Amy Shack Egan that connects couples with pre-vetted wedding coordinators. It aims to simplify the wedding planning process.
Who is Kerry Washington?
Kerry Washington is an acclaimed actress and producer, known for her roles in television and film, who has recently become a lead investor in Cheersy.
How much funding did Cheersy raise?
Cheersy successfully raised $550,000 in its pre-seed funding round, with notable investors including Kerry Washington.
What other businesses has Amy Shack Egan founded?
Amy Shack Egan is the founder of Modern Rebel, an unconventional wedding planning company that has executed over 500 weddings.
What are the future plans for Cheersy?
Amy Shack Egan plans to expand Cheersy’s user base and will be launching another funding round in the near future, all while preparing for her growing family.