AEC is a full-service destination event planning and design firm specializing in elevated celebrations throughout Western North Carolina and beyond. Led by Becca Knuth and Missie Porter, our team crafts highly personalized events that are a reflection of the client while keeping the guest experience in mind.
Planning. Design. Execution.
about AEC
weddings. corporate events. festivals. fundraisers. consulting.
Flawless planning and inspired design come together to create seamless, unforgettable events.
I began my career in the entertainment industry as an Assistant Director on feature films and commercials, where I built a strong foundation in organization and logistics.
After moving to Asheville, I transitioned into corporate event planning and eventually co-founded an event company with Missie. Together, we specialize in large-scale events such as luxury destination weddings, corporate functions, and fundraisers, bringing creativity, professionalism, and heart to everything we do.
I love the planning process, crafting unique design concepts, and building lasting relationships with clients and vendors. With nearly 20 years in Asheville, I still crave the beach but find joy in mountain life, time with loved ones, and chasing sunsets whenever I can.
principal planner and designer
Becca Knuth
"If you believe it will work, you'll see opportunities. If you believe it won't, you will see obstacles."
- Wayne Dyer
I've been an event planner my entire career and truly love what I do. From nonprofit galas and corporate conferences to fashion shows and weddings, I’ve planned nearly 800 events across a range of industries and cities.
For over a decade, I served as Festival Director for the City of Asheville, managing major events like Bele Chere and founding the Asheville Film Festival. I led a team, oversaw hundreds of events annually, and secured over $1 million in funding for city-wide festivals.
In 2008, Becca and I launched Asheville Event Co., a full-service planning and consulting firm. We now manage over 40 events a year, from luxury weddings to large-scale corporate events and festivals, offering deep expertise in logistics, budgeting, marketing, and vendor relations.
Outside of work, I’m a mom, runner, animal lover, beach enthusiast, and proud Asheville local.
principal planner and designer
Melissa "Missie" Porter
"Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher."
- Oprah Winfrey
I grew up in the mountains of North Carolina and, after six years working in Los Angeles as a coordinator on feature films and TV shows, I was ready to return home to Asheville.
Event planning was a natural fit for my skills in organization, planning, and multitasking. I started with Asheville Event Co. as an event assistant and, ten years later, I now lead many of our weddings and corporate events.
I love everything about planning events in Western North Carolina: the people, the places, and the joy of bringing each client’s vision to life. There’s nothing better than watching a couple’s dream unfold in such a beautiful setting.
When I’m not working, you’ll find me spending time with my daughter or exploring local breweries on the weekend.
lead event planner
Caroline Livengood
"Do one thing every day that scares you."
- Eleanor Roosevelt
I’m a Texas girl, born and raised. After college in Mississippi, my husband and I moved to the mountains of Western North Carolina to put down roots and start our family.
While my background includes marketing strategy and corporate events, my true passion lies in planning and executing personal celebrations, especially weddings. I love being part of the Asheville Event Co. team and helping our clients bring their vision to life.
When I’m not working, you’ll find me chasing after my daughter or rescue pup, exploring new local restaurants, or cheering on my Ole Miss Rebels. Hotty Toddy!
lead event planner and assistant
Brittany Ellis
"Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other."
- John F. Kennedy
I’ve always been drawn to weddings. I began my career in college selling bridal gowns in Boston, but soon realized I wanted to be part of the full celebration. That led me to the hotel side of the industry, where I gained experience in both sales and wedding coordination.
Originally from New England, I now consider North Carolina my second home. The mountains here are truly magical, especially in the spring.
I thrive on the logistics: timelines and building the perfect vendor team. I also have a soft spot for romantic gowns, great live music, and farm-to-table menus. When I’m not planning weddings, you’ll find me traveling for food, spending time with my cat, Remy, or cheering on Duke basketball.
associate event planner
Jyl Deering
"It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit."
- Harry Truman
Sarah began her career in online marketing, specializing in SEO, paid ads, and social media strategy, before discovering her passion for connecting with people and creating experiences that bring communities together. She started working in events in 2012 in Charlottesville, VA and joined AEC in 2013 after moving to Asheville with her soon-to-be husband.
After several years in Atlanta, where she expanded her experience in real estate and corporate events for a Fortune 1000 firm, Sarah is back with the AEC team, blending her love of events with her digital marketing expertise.
When she’s not working, you can find Sarah chasing after her energetic five-year-old, exploring Peachtree City, GA with her husband, or cruising around the neighborhood on their golf cart.
EVENT ASSISTANT
Sarah Kiomall
"Stretching sound is music. Stretching movement is dance. Stretching the smile is laughter. Stretching the mind is meditation. Stretching life is celebration."
- RAVI SHANKAR
@ashevilleeventco
