Carolina Event Masters

•Ratings include Zola and Google reviews

Service levels: Full-service planning

Team size: 2 – 4

Offer from vendor

Complimentary Honeymoon Planning and Booking!

ALL packages receive complimentary honeymoon travel planning and booking! Whether your honeymoon is right after your big day or 5 years later, we’ll help plan a seamless, stress-free getaway.

About Carolina Event Masters

Carolina Event Masters

Owner

My name is Makenzie, a North Carolina native and UNC–Chapel Hill graduate with a love for creativity, organization, and meaningful moments. When I’m not researching vendors, breaking down budgets, or perfecting timelines, you can usually find me hiking, crafting, or spending time with my mini-me’s. Wedding planning felt like a natural calling once I realized I could combine my love for celebrations with my knack for lists, spreadsheets, and problem-solving. I approach each couple like a trusted friend, creating a calm, supportive planning experience so you can truly enjoy your engagement and wedding day.

I’m a best friend in your corner, not just a vendor. I genuinely care about my couples and make sure you feel heard, supported, and stress-free throughout the process. I offer personalized, flexible planning—whether that’s texting, virtual meetings, or unlimited check-ins—meeting you exactly where you are. I’m detail-oriented and solutions-driven, reviewing contracts, navigating challenges, and advocating for your best interests. I proudly create an inclusive, welcoming space for all couples, surprise you with a meaningful keepsake, and guide you toward thoughtful, eco-friendly choices whenever possible.

In three words: Calm, Creative, Organized

Services by planning level

Service included in starting price
Service available for an extra cost
Full-service planningPartial planningDay-of coordination / wedding managementElopement / microwedding
Description

With this package you are a top tier couple. In addition to the Signature Package I will also provide schedule and management of out-of-town guests, book hotel room blocks, plan and coordinate wedding party brunches/luncheons, track RSVPs, and manage anything in between!

You've got the ball rolling but now you're looking for a little extra help in figuring out all the fine details in between, then this package is for you! In addition to the Day-Of Management Package I will also help you in creating a budget, finalizing design aspects, and complete vendor research to make sure you have everything you need for your big day! This package begins once you sign the contract!

This package is ideal for those that have already planned everything but just want to relax on their big day! Beginning one month prior to your wedding day you will have unlimited calls, texts, emails with me and I will be a part of all final vendor and venue meetings/walk-throughs. I will be available for both the rehearsal and the wedding day.

Customizable per wedding

Planning begins12 Months out12 Months out1 Month out1 Month out
Vendor Management
Accommodation Coordination
Timeline Creation & Management
Onsite Event Management
Contract Review
Final Venue Walkthrough
Event Styling & Design
Budget Planning
Vendor Selection
Transportation Coordination
Venue Recommendations
RSVP Tracking
Wedding Website
Wedding Favors & Accessories
Venue Visits
PricingStarts at $4,500Starts at $2,250Starts at $1,950Starts at $500

Reviews

Write a review
Rating: 5.0

5.0 out of 5

27 reviews

  • DC

    Drew C.

    Rating: 5
    •Zola
    •Oct 9

    If either of us were to get married again

    If either of us were to get married again, we'd choose Sarah/Carolina Event Masters to plan the wedding. We found Carolina Event Masters and Sarah through the Zola vendor website. After some cursory research regarding location and pricing, we decided to schedule a consult call. We'd already had some of the sourcing done ourselves, so really, we were looking for someone to act as a guide to help find unknown unknowns and to take the planning pressure off of us. During the initial call, Sarah asked a bunch of questions and brought up some points that we hadn't considered -- such as the fact that weddings officiated by "internet-ordained" officiants are open to legal challenges. - which made us feel comfortable enough that we'd be in good hands. We recommend Sarah and team to anyone looking to bring in an expert to offload vendor sourcing. At one point we started getting anxious because we didn't feel like we were stressed enough! (Sarah quickly hopped on a call to remedy this.) We'd describe her style as calm, efficient, and laid-back professional. Sarah and her team really shone in their day-of managing roles. Everything was incredibly organized; the event hit all its marks and checkpoints, and the vendors were confident in their schedules because of Sarah's expert communication. We were able to do things our way, without needing to adhere 100% to the prescribed plan. And still, Sarah was able to make some game-time calls on specific set-piece moments. The result was absolutely perfect.

  • CG

    Caroline G.

    Rating: 5
    •Zola
    •Mar 31, 2026

    Hiring CEM was our best wedding decision!

    We found Makenzie of Carolina Event Masters from a Facebook wedding group. My only hesitation was the language barrier between our families. I was trying to find vendors that spoke English and Spanish but the wedding planners that met that criteria lacked in every other area. That hesitation quickly faded when she answered all our questions in a timely manner and seemed the most professional and knowledgeable out of all the planners we spoke to. She even sent us a welcome box! I liked how organized Makenzie was, she was kind but assertive, she offered expertise and guidance for anything that came up to us. I also liked how she stuck to what Luis and I wanted and wasn’t afraid to tell our families "no" in a professional yet friendly way. The morning started stressful but Makenzie really saved the day! Makenzie is not afraid to get things done the way the bride and the groom want them done! She makes the day run much more smoothly, and she sticks to the schedule. If a couple hires Carolina Event Masters as their wedding planner, their day will exceed their expectations and be the best day ever!

  • MJ

    Matthew J.

    Rating: 5
    •Zola
    •Jan 31, 2026

    Hands down the wedding planner!

    Hiring Makenzie was the single best investment we made for our wedding. From our very first conversation, it was clear how knowledgeable, detail-oriented, and genuinely caring she is. She took the time to understand our vision, priorities, and personalities, and made sure every decision aligned with what mattered most to us. As the wedding day approached, Makenzie handled logistics, vendor communication, and timelines seamlessly, which allowed us to relax and enjoy the process instead of stressing over details. On the day of the wedding, she was calm, professional, and completely on top of everything behind the scenes. If something went wrong, we never knew about it, and that alone speaks volumes. Makenzie has a rare ability to balance professionalism with warmth. She advocated for us, kept everything running smoothly, and made us feel truly supported throughout the entire experience. We felt confident knowing she had everything handled, and our day turned out better than we ever imagined. I cannot recommend her highly enough to any couple looking for a planner who truly goes above and beyond.

  • KY

    Karl Y.

    Rating: 4
    •Zola
    •Jan 29, 2026

    Yachulke Wedding

    We found Carolina Event Masters from Facebook and had zero hesitations to work with Makenzie! She was easy to talk with and showed thoroughness in her work. We absolutely recommend Carolina Event Masters for any wedding or large event. Makenzie is genuine and shows passion in what she does. She maintained communication throughout the process and was always there to help make sure all tasks were met. Our overall experience was great. It was truly an unforgettable day, with incredible people. We greatly appreciate all the time and efforts that went into making this day happen.

    Makenzie Johnson•Jan 29, 2026

    These are such sweet words, thank you so much! Me and my team had an absolute blast helping to bring your wedding day to life! We love feedback, as it helps our team grow and improve! Is there anything we could have done differently to earn a five star rating?

  • KB

    Kayla B.

    Rating: 5
    •Zola
    •Jan 29, 2026

    Best planner, hands down!

    From the moment we hired Makenzie, I felt an instant sense of calm. Wedding planning can be overwhelming, but she truly felt like a best friend in our corner every step of the way. She is incredibly organized, thoughtful, and proactive, always one step ahead and ready with solutions before stress could even set in. On our wedding day, everything ran so smoothly that my partner and I were able to be fully present and actually enjoy every moment. Makenzie handled vendors, timelines, and last-minute changes with total grace and professionalism, all while making us feel supported and cared for. Her communication was amazing, and she genuinely put our needs first. What stood out most was how personal and intentional her approach was. We never felt like “just another couple.” Every detail mattered to her, and that meant the world to us. If you want a planner/coordinator who is organized, calm under pressure, inclusive, and truly invested in your happiness, Makenzie is it. Hiring her was one of the best decisions we made for our wedding day.

    Makenzie Johnson•Jan 31, 2026

    Thank you soooo much! The Colonial Inn was such a perfect space for you and Matthew given the history of the venue AND the history the two of you share there. Wishing both of you many years of happiness!

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I treat every couple like a best friend, not just a client. I focus on clear communication, thoughtful details, and problem-solving so you can actually enjoy your engagement and wedding day. I’m known for staying calm under pressure and handling last-minute changes with ease.
I meet couples where they are—text, email, phone, or virtual meetings. All packages include generous communication, and I’m always just a message away when questions pop up.
Always. Inclusivity is a non-negotiable for me. I use inclusive language, avoid assumptions, and proudly support couples of all identities, backgrounds, and love stories.
I focus on solutions, not panic. Whether it’s timeline shifts, weather changes, or vendor hiccups, my job is to absorb the stress so you don’t have to, and keep your day running smoothly behind the scenes.
Organized, thoughtful, and calm with a strong emphasis on communication. I want couples to feel informed, confident in their decisions, and fully present on their wedding day.
As soon as possible! Many couples book 9–15 months in advance, especially for full-service planning. That said, I’m happy to step in at any stage and help wherever you need support.
I offer full-service wedding planning, partial planning, month-of coordination, and optional design support. My approach is thorough, organized, and personalized so you feel supported from start to finish without being overwhelmed.

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