Exciting News: Honored as One of MSN.com’s “Top 10 Event Planners to Watch in 2025”

Named one of the top Event Planners

Every so often in business, there are moments that make you stop, take a deep breath, and say, “Wow, this is really happening.” For me, this is one of those moments.

I am beyond humbled and excited to share that MSN.com has named me one of the “Top 10 Event Planners to Watch in 2025.”

This recognition is more than just a title—it’s a celebration of a journey that began with passion, perseverance, and a deep belief that unforgettable events can change the way people experience life’s biggest milestones.

What This Recognition Means

Being recognized by MSN.com, a global platform that highlights trailblazers and thought leaders across industries, is both surreal and deeply meaningful. I'm still pinching myself that it's real! To be listed among other talented event professionals who are shaping the future of our industry feels like both an honor and a responsibility.

It tells me that the late nights, the problem-solving under pressure, the countless vendor calls, the creative brainstorming sessions, and the careful attention to the tiniest of details have been worth it. But most importantly, it tells me that the trust and confidence my clients place in me has been noticed—and that means the world.

This isn’t just my recognition. It belongs to every couple who I had the honor of being beside them during their wedding planning journey, every business who partnered with me to bring their corporate vision to life, and every vendor and team member who has been part of the journey right along side me.

A Journey Rooted in Passion

When I first started Inked Events, I knew one thing for certain: I wanted to do more than just “plan weddings.” I wanted to create experiences—those moments that live on in memories, photos, and stories long after the event is over.

I’ve always believed that events should reflect the personality, style, and values of the people at the center of them. Whether that means weaving in cultural traditions, highlighting personal love stories, or curating a corporate event that reflects a brand’s identity, my mission has always been to make each occasion authentic and impactful.

The path hasn’t always been easy. Event planning is a career filled with challenges— curating the right business practices, learning new software, keeping up with the trends, never might the tight timelines, unexpected weather, last-minute changes, and let’s be honest, plenty of problem-solving that happens quietly in the background on the actual event day. But it’s also filled with immense rewards: seeing a couple’s eyes light up when they first see their reception space, hearing a client say their event exceeded expectations, or witnessing a team of vendors come together seamlessly like a symphony.

What Sets Inked Events Apart

One of the things MSN.com highlighted when selecting their “Top 10 Event Planners to Watch in 2025” was the ability to innovate while staying authentic. That’s something I take great pride in.

At Inked Events, I don’t believe in cookie-cutter celebrations. Every event is approached with fresh creativity and meticulous detail. I love taking an idea—sometimes just a spark of inspiration from my clients—and turning it into a fully realized experience that feels personal, unique, and flawless. You want to go down the aisle in a motorcycle sidecar, I'm all for that, I'll figure out how to make that happen!

But it’s not just about aesthetics or logistics. It’s also about building trust. Planning a wedding or event is an emotional process, and my role is as much about being a calm, reassuring presence as it is about being a strategist and designer. I want my clients to feel supported, confident, and genuinely excited throughout the entire process.

Lessons I’ve Learned Along the Way

Recognition like this also makes me reflect on the lessons I’ve learned in my career so far. Here are a few that stand out:

• Details matter, but people matter more. You can plan the most gorgeous event, but if the people at the center of it don’t feel cared for, it misses the mark.

• Flexibility is everything. Things won’t always go according to plan, but how you respond makes all the difference. Our timelines are an "ish" and I work with the vendor team to make sure the events run smoothly, even if they are running late.

• Teamwork creates magic. No planner can do this alone. Partnering with vendors who share the same dedication and passion elevates every event. I'm so grateful to have built a {long} list of professionals that I can call upon and trust to help bring my clients vision to life.

• Authenticity wins. Trends come and go, but staying true to your style, values, and purpose is what makes your work stand out.

• Never stop learning. The event industry is always evolving. Continuing to grow, adapt, and stay inspired keeps the work fresh and exciting. This is why I continue to attend industry related conferences and continue my education with certifications that elevate me over others.

Gratitude for Clients, Partners, and Supporters

This milestone wouldn’t be possible without the incredible people I’ve had the privilege to work with over the years. To my couples {past, present & future} —you’ve trusted me with one of the most important days of your lives, and that’s a responsibility I’ll never take lightly. To my corporate clients—you’ve allowed me to showcase creativity in ways that inspire teams and strengthen brands. To my vendor partners—you are the backbone of every successful event, and I’m lucky to collaborate with such talented professionals that I have the honor of calling 'friend'.

And of course, to my family and friends—your unwavering support has fueled me through long weekends, endless phone calls, and busy seasons. This recognition belongs to you, too.

Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond

Being named one of MSN.com’s Top 10 Event Planners to Watch in 2025 isn’t just about celebrating the past—it’s about looking forward to what’s next.

In the remaining months of 2025 & going into 2026, I’m committed to continuing to push boundaries, elevate experiences, and bring fresh ideas to the table. Whether it’s introducing innovative design concepts, embracing sustainability in events, or creating even more personalized client journeys, I’m excited to keep growing.

I’m also looking forward to expanding Inked Events’ reach, taking on more diverse projects, and continuing to be part of this amazing community of event professionals who inspire me daily.

Final Thoughts

This recognition is one of the highlights of my career, but it’s also just the beginning of an exciting new chapter. I’m deeply honored to be acknowledged by MSN.com, and I can’t wait to see what 2026 has in store for us.

To my clients, partners, and supporters: thank you for believing in me, for trusting Inked Events, and for being part of this journey. Here’s to creating even more unforgettable celebrations together!

With deep gratitude,

Tracy Dapp

Founder & Lead Planner, Inked Events