Owner, Jess Smith has worked in the hospitality industry for over two decades, gaining extensive operational experience in every facet of event planning. She has a vast network of amazing vendors and venues she has formed lasting relationships with, around the globe.

Jess worked her way up through the hospitality industry in a variety of positions, from fast casual to private clubs, to fine dining establishments. From yelling out orders in food truck windows, to hosting at local restaurants, working as a server, a venue manager, banquet captain, assisting with floral design and setup to managing catering teams and other vendors, for events with thousands of attendees. Her love of food, wine, and florals is evident. Jess has won multiple grants, industry awards, and the honor of a front page spread in a local newspaper. She served on the Board of Directors, of a non-profit educational organization, the National Association for Catering and Events, the triangle chapter for two separate one year terms, as Director of Membership, and Director of Fundraising.

Jess is no stranger to travel, and was perhaps destined to travel the world. Her passion stems partially from her upbringing, as her her grandparents were always traveling or being visited by friends from other countries, or families they were sponsoring. Often surrounded by women of other cultures, sharing stories in the kitchen about food, traditions, and music. The unconditional love of the arts, culture, food and immersive experiences when traveling, are deeply rooted in these influences.

With personal connections in northern Italy, Sicily, Spain, France, England, Puerto Rico and the Carolinas, she can introduce you to people deeply immersed in their respective cultures. Utilizing the over 100,000 partnerships through FORA, she can help find the perfect destination, tour, or experience for everyone!

Jess was born and raised in North Carolina, and graduated from East Carolina University. She has lived in Mebane, North Carolina for over a decade with her husband and their dog, and loves the small town feel. When not “working”, she enjoys discovering new travel destinations, attending shows, or finding great food and a good vibe. Really rough days call for a nice glass of bourbon, listening to Fleetwood Mac or 90’s R&B by the firepit, or a relaxing soak in the hot tub.

Celebrations always call for a glass of bubbly, and dancing around the room.

If you are looking for someone who’s seen (a lot) of events, will be honest with you (maybe even if it’s not what you want to hear), will support your vision and your decisions (within reason), and negotiate on your behalf with vendors, Jess is for you. Let’s say you want an authentic experience, one that really represents what you are celebrating, and not just what’s trending on Pinterest. Maybe that means the best food displays and a champagne cart, or maybe its food trucks and a tattoo artist, events are meant to be experienced. If you are looking to have a fantastic time, we would love to hear from you!