PRIVATE EVENTS
What began as a love for gathering friends and family has grown into a passion for crafting intimate, meaningful moments that celebrate life’s most special occasions. From milestone birthdays to baby showers, each event I plan is personalized, polished, and full of heart. My approach balances creativity and care — curating every element to reflect the personality and purpose behind the celebration. Explore my portfolio to see how thoughtful touches and intentional design turn private events into unforgettable memories.
sixteen & sparkling - mia's sweet 16 dinner party
OCTOBER 2024
This elegant Sweet 16 dinner party was designed to reflect the charm, style, and spirit of a truly special birthday girl. Soft pastel florals, shimmering gold accents, and a rose-filled backdrop created a sophisticated yet playful setting for an unforgettable evening. Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner, heartfelt toasts, and dancing beneath glowing marquee numbers that lit up the night. From personalized touches to picture-perfect décor, every detail was crafted to celebrate this sweet milestone in style.
Flowers by Knight & Gal Designs
in my graduation era - mckenna's graduation party
APRIL 2024
Cake by SSweet Bakery
This Taylor Swift-inspired graduation celebration was a heartfelt tribute to McKenna’s college journey — equal parts sparkle, sentiment, and superstar style. The event featured custom “McKenna’s Version” décor, a disco ball-accented cake, and personalized album covers that mirrored Taylor Swift’s iconic eras, each reflecting milestones from the graduate’s time in college. Guests were surrounded by shimmering details, sweet treats, and moments of nostalgia that made the night feel like a scene from a music video. A joyful and stylish send-off into her next great era!
steeped in love - sheila's 70th birthday tea
march 2024
To celebrate a milestone as timeless as Sheila’s 70th, we brought the charm of an English garden to the iconic Whitney in Detroit. This elegant afternoon tea featured vintage teapots, delicate florals, and pastel hues accented with soft gold — creating a refined, whimsical atmosphere fit for a truly fabulous guest of honor. Guests enjoyed a custom tea made for the event, decadent treats, and meaningful moments shared in a setting as beautiful and graceful as Sheila herself. A celebration full of love, laughter, and lasting memories.
Cake by SSweet Bakery
Tea by Happy Turtle Tea
a little swan is on the way - abbie's baby shower
september 2023
Inspired by the elegance of the ballet, this Swan Lake-themed baby shower was a graceful celebration of Baby Kowalsky on the way. Soft blue tones, delicate florals, and whimsical swan accents created a serene and enchanting atmosphere. Guests were welcomed by stunning balloon installations, custom treats, and thoughtful touches that made the day feel like a fairytale. A beautiful afternoon filled with love, laughter, and the sweetest anticipation.
Cookies by Curly Girl Bake Shoppe
traverse & toasts - my 40th birthday weekend
october 2022
Grazing table by TC Picnic Co
Tour transportation by Beyond Horizons Tour & Travel
As an event planner, I spend my days creating unforgettable experiences for others — but turning 40 called for a celebration of my own. I designed a weekend getaway in beautiful Traverse City, MI to toast this milestone surrounded by the people I love most. The itinerary blended rest, joy, and indulgence — from a luxurious spa afternoon and a vineyard wine tasting to a stunning picnic lunch and sunset dinners overlooking the lake. Every moment was filled with laughter, love, and deep appreciation for the journey so far. A celebration of life, friendship, and the art of intentional living.
Beyond the Barre: A Team Retreat - FBT staff retreat
august 2021
After guiding Fenton Ballet Theatre through the challenges of the pandemic and back to the stage, this incredible team deserved a moment to breathe, bond, and be celebrated. I curated a lakeside retreat designed to honor their creativity, resilience, and heart. From welcome cocktails to shared meals, lakeside games, and spontaneous swims, every detail encouraged rest, reflection, and reconnection. More than a weekend getaway, it was a celebration of community, creativity, and the strength of a team that never stopped believing in the magic of the arts.
Sunflowers & Senior Smiles - mckenna's graduation party
july 2020
In the summer of 2020, we brought joy and celebration to the forefront with a sunflower-themed graduation party that radiated warmth and personality. Set under a tent lined with black-and-white gingham and framed by portraits from every stage of the graduate’s life, this backyard event turned memories into décor. Vibrant sunflower centerpieces, and thoughtful touches created a heartfelt, down-to-earth atmosphere that honored both past accomplishments and future dreams. A beautiful reminder that even in uncertain times, we can still celebrate the moments that matter most.
Memories Made, Milestones Honored - GRADUATIOn commencement ceremony
june 2020
Cookies by Curly Girl Bake Shoppe
When traditional graduations were canceled in 2020, we reimagined the milestone by transforming a family’s backyard into a heartfelt, intimate celebration. With just one week to plan, every detail was designed to honor the graduate’s achievement in a personal and meaningful way. From a custom-built podium and emotional speeches to a keepsake book of letters and a surprise message from their future college chaplain, the event was a powerful reminder that joy and recognition can thrive — even in uncertain times. A beautiful tribute to resilience, love, and the power of showing up for life’s big moments.
Toasting 50 with Cheers & Beers - melissa's surprise 50th
july 2019
Surprising Melissa for her 50th birthday was a celebration as bold and fun as she is! With custom “Cheers & Beers” décor, themed treats, and plenty of cold brews on tap, this milestone party was filled with laughter, great company, and unforgettable moments. From the personalized cake topper to the heartfelt toasts, every detail was crafted to honor Melissa’s amazing 50 years and the many adventures ahead. A night of good vibes, great beer, and even greater memories.
real leadership on the road - gamma phi beta leadership trip
february 2019
When the Michigan Gamma Phi Beta community set out for the REAL Leadership Conference, it became more than a conference — it became a shared journey. As travel coordinator, I ensured our members traveled together seamlessly, building connection and sisterhood before we even arrived. From coordinating logistics to designing custom state-themed shirts, every detail was crafted to foster unity, pride, and ease. The result? A memorable experience that blended professional development with personal growth—and a road trip full of laughter, leadership, and lifelong bonds.
the road ahead - skip's retirement party
february 2019
After a remarkable career, Skip’s retirement celebration was a heartfelt tribute to his legacy, laughter, and love of the open road. Every detail reflected his unique personality—from a menu curated with his favorite foods to a custom caricature honoring a cherished Leo Burnett Detroit tradition. A personalized, travel-themed gift marked the start of his next great adventure. As event planner, it was an honor to create a send-off that celebrated not just a career well done, but a journey still unfolding—one full of freedom, fun, and fresh horizons.
love in full bloom - ashley & jb's wedding shower
july 2018
Set in a lush garden and bursting with personality, Ashley & JB’s backyard wedding shower was a joyful celebration of love and all things bright and beautiful. Inspired by Ashley’s love of vibrant pinks and oranges and JB’s rustic, outdoorsy charm, every detail was thoughtfully curated to reflect their story. From whimsical florals to cozy natural textures, the day felt both enchanting and effortlessly personal. It was an honor to bring this colorful, love-filled gathering to life—surrounded by laughter, nature, and heartfelt moments.
brunch & bubbly - lauren & brandon's wedding shower
april 2017
Bold, romantic, and full of personality, Lauren & Brandon’s bridal shower was a unique blend of elegance and adventure. Set in a stunning brunch setting, the event featured luxe red florals inspired by the bride’s favorite color and rustic hunting-inspired touches to honor the groom’s passion. From bubbly toasts to beautiful décor, every detail reflected the couple’s dynamic love story. It was a joy to design a celebration that felt both vibrant and heartfelt—setting the perfect tone for their next chapter together.
she found her prince - kristy & brian's wedding shower
september 2012
Set in a blooming backyard oasis, Kristy & Brian’s bridal shower was a whimsical celebration of love, laughter, and happily ever after. With a color palette of lush greens and regal purples, the event featured charming frog prince accents and playful touches that brought a fairytale feel to life. As planner, I designed an inviting garden setting filled with cozy seating, thoughtful details, and a joyful atmosphere. It was a beautiful afternoon of connection, laughter, and sweet memories — fit for a couple destined for a storybook ending.
BROOKE & GARY WEDDING
SEPTEMBER 2007
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Mansion at Pine Knob, Brooke & Gary’s wedding was a celebration of classic elegance and heartfelt romance. From the soft blush florals to the warm glow of a candlelit reception, every element was curated to reflect their refined style and deep connection. As their planner and day-of coordinator, I managed each detail — from vendor logistics to timeline flow — so the couple could focus on soaking in every joyful moment. A day filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories.
