Katie Parker, Lead Wedding Planner

Service Location: Chicago, Pensacola & San Antonio

Katie started Simply Eventful after gaining years of experience in public and private event planning, catering and venue management. Her passion for organizing and ability to relate to a bride's priorities led her to become one of Chicago's most in-demand wedding consultants. Katie graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Illinois and holds a Bachelor of Science degree. In her free time, Katie volunteers coaching a youth soccer team. Katie currently lives in Texas with her husband, who is training to be a pilot for the United States Navy, and enjoys traveling for weddings and to visit friends and family.

Rachel Smith, Lead Creative Designer

 Service Location: Chicago, Pensacola & San Antonio

Rachel has a well-rounded understanding of “all things wedding,” with experience in floral design, venue management, catering, and an eye for all things fresh, fun, and beautiful. Her experience proves vital in helping clients navigate through the overwhelming options available when planning a wedding. She makes clients comfortable by adapting to their style and bringing out simple, heartfelt, and personal details in each wedding design. With access to unlimited resources, knowledge of every facet of event planning and design, and loads of creative energy, there is simply nothing she can’t create. Rachel holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of North Carolina.

Tara Flinchbaugh, Associate Coordinator

Service Location: Chicago & Indiana

Tara grew up in northern Indiana and currently lives in Indianapolis. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Purdue University. Tara has a lifetime of experience planning events for organizations from high school proms, to sorority formals, to her true passion: weddings. Whether it's a small get together with friends or a more lavish event, designing and customizing those small, but important details is what she lives for. Tara's creativity and attention to detail make her a great asset to Simply Eventful. When she isn't working or volunteering, Tara loves spending time with her friends, traveling, and dancing.