Elevate the Experience.
Planning the Plan
Karie MacLeod
TEACHER | SPEAKER | PLANNER
With over a decade of experience in the wedding and event planning industry, Karie has built her career on helping planners simplify processes and elevate their client experiences. As the founder of Planning the Plan and SSY Events, she understands the challenges of building and growing a business in a competitive market—and how to thrive with the right tools and strategies.
Karie’s passion lies in guiding fellow wedding professionals to success. Through her engaging talks and practical resources like her eBook, The Balanced Planner and digital guides, she empowers planners to confidently tackle the complexities of their work while cultivating meaningful vendor relationships.
From navigating the intricacies of onboarding clients to mastering the art of networking, Karie delivers actionable insights with humor and authenticity. As a new voice on the speaking circuit, she brings fresh energy and a relatable perspective, inspiring audiences to embrace growth and creativity in their businesses.
When she’s not mentoring or planning events, Karie enjoys connecting with her community, spending time with her husband, two sons and their dog, Molly Caroline.
My Story
I grew up in a small farming town in Southwest Oklahoma, where life revolved around fields and livestock. Ironically, the farm life was never for me—something that makes my story all the more amusing when you consider how much it shaped my early years. I’ve since traded small-town life for big dreams, living in Southern California, then the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tahoe, before ultimately finding my way back to Oklahoma.
But my journey wasn’t always picture-perfect. As a survivor of domestic violence, I’ve faced challenges that reshaped my perspective and strengthened my faith. Those experiences have fueled my passion for helping others, building connections, and creating platforms that empower people to thrive—whether in life or business.
Today, I’m a proud wife and mom, balancing the beautiful chaos of family life with my role as a mentor to wedding planners and a speaker for industry professionals. Through my businesses, Planning the Plan and SSY Events, I’ve found a way to turn my love for organization and connection into meaningful work while showing that our start doesn't define our finish!
My story is about resilience, reinvention, and finding joy in the unexpected. It’s a story I hope inspires others to embrace their challenges, chase their dreams, and build a life—and a business—they’re proud of.
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting speaking and engagement opportunities. Let's connect!
775-276-8798