ABOUT MELISSA BURTON:OWNER + PRINCIPAL EVENT PLANNERPlanning a wedding should feel exciting - not overwhelming. That’s where I come in.
I’m Melissa Burton, founder of Knot Too Shabby Events, an award-winning wedding planning and design company based in coastal North Carolina. I work with couples who want a beautifully curated, seamless celebration and the freedom to actually enjoy it. With over a decade in the industry and experience producing dozens of weddings each year, I specialize in full-service planning, design, and event management. From coastal estates to private properties and refined venues, my approach is equal parts thoughtful, organized, and design-driven - ensuring every detail is handled with intention. But what truly sets my work apart is how it feels. I grew up in Southport, North Carolina - a small coastal town known for its charm, slower pace, and natural beauty. That appreciation for atmosphere and setting still influences how I design weddings today. At 18, I stepped far outside of that world and traveled solo to New Zealand, an experience that shaped my ability to adapt quickly, connect with all kinds of people, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. Those skills show up on every wedding day. |
Before launching Knot Too Shabby Events in 2014, I spent over four years as the Event Manager for a historic waterfront venue in downtown Wilmington. There, I built lasting relationships with some of the area’s most sought-after vendors while gaining a behind-the-scenes understanding of what it truly takes to execute a seamless, well-orchestrated event. That foundation continues to influence my work today - allowing me to anticipate needs, refine logistics, and manage every detail with precision and care.
At my core, I’ve always been a planner. Long before this was a career, I was the one organizing trips, celebrations, and anything that brought people together. I’m naturally detail-oriented (some might say meticulously so), highly organized, and genuinely invested in creating experiences that feel effortless for my clients. Because behind every beautiful wedding is a thousand moving pieces and someone making sure they all come together flawlessly.
My favorite moment of the day isn’t just the ceremony - it’s later, when the music is up, the timeline is flowing, and you’re fully present. No questions, no stress, no logistics - just celebrating.
That’s the goal. And that’s what I build every event around.
If you’re looking for a planner who will guide you, advocate for you, and bring your vision to life with precision and creativity - you’re in the right place.
At my core, I’ve always been a planner. Long before this was a career, I was the one organizing trips, celebrations, and anything that brought people together. I’m naturally detail-oriented (some might say meticulously so), highly organized, and genuinely invested in creating experiences that feel effortless for my clients. Because behind every beautiful wedding is a thousand moving pieces and someone making sure they all come together flawlessly.
My favorite moment of the day isn’t just the ceremony - it’s later, when the music is up, the timeline is flowing, and you’re fully present. No questions, no stress, no logistics - just celebrating.
That’s the goal. And that’s what I build every event around.
If you’re looking for a planner who will guide you, advocate for you, and bring your vision to life with precision and creativity - you’re in the right place.
To schedule a consultation or inquire about any of our event planning services, fill out our Contact Form.
Photos: Erin L Taylor Photography













