Our Story

About Us

Est. 2014

Boutique Principles.
Personal Service.

Southern Oak Events is a wedding planning and event management company based in Raleigh, NC. We operate on boutique principles of attention to detail and customized customer service.

We limit the number of weddings we take on each year intentionally — because we believe every couple deserves our full attention, creativity, and care. When you work with us, you truly work with us.

We are proud to be based in Raleigh, rooted in the Triangle community, and trusted by couples across North Carolina and beyond.

300+

Weddings Celebrated

2014

Founded

The People Behind Your Day

Meet The Team

Jessica Tilton

Owner & Wedding + Event Planner

I'm originally from Pinehurst, NC and have been a Raleigh resident for the past 16 years. I graduated from NC State and began planning weddings in 2014, leaving my full-time corporate job in 2015 to pursue Southern Oak Events full-time. I'm married to Josh and we have a son named Sadler Nash. When I'm not planning weddings, I love cooking, organizing, connecting with clients, and going on family adventures. My favorite part of this job is getting to know each couple and creating an experience that is truly personal to them.

Erika Granholm

Wedding + Event Planner

I am originally from New Jersey where I first started planning weddings, and then moved to North Carolina in 2020. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Business Marketing and a Master's degree in Counseling — a combination that gives me a unique perspective on both the logistics and the emotional journey of wedding planning. I love to travel and enjoy spending time with my fiancé and our two dogs.

Nicole Causin

Wedding + Event Planner

I am from Raleigh and absolutely love living in North Carolina — what's better than a state that offers mountains, lakes, and beaches? I graduated from East Carolina University with a degree in Hospitality Management with a concentration in Special Event Planning. I come from a family with a farm in Wake Forest with five horses and a mini donkey. I'm passionate about incorporating personal details, meaningful moments, and even pets into wedding celebrations.

How We Work

Our Approach

Attention to Detail

We obsess over the details so you don't have to. Every vendor, every timeline, every small moment is considered with intention.

Customized Service

No two weddings are alike and no two clients are alike. We tailor every aspect of our service to your specific vision, personality, and needs.

True Partnership

We are your collaborators, advocates, and calm in the chaos — from your first planning call to your last dance.

Let's Plan Together

We'd Love to Hear About Your Wedding

Initial consultations are always complimentary. Reach out and let's start the conversation.