Courtney Drake
I founded Drake Social with a passion for creating memorable events that leave guests in awe. As a bicoastal luxury wedding planner working between Atlanta, GA, and Santa Barbara, CA, I bring a fresh blend of Southern elegance and West Coast flair to each unique event.
My extensive background — with a Bachelor of Interior Design from the University of Alabama, a Master of Construction Management from Georgia Tech, and over a decade in corporate finance — supports my detail-oriented and innovative approach to event design and production. With this expertise, I ensure every wedding and event is meticulously planned, blending trends and timeless traditions to exceed client expectations nationwide. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling and exploring new destinations with my husband.
Cait Madden
As a dedicated member of Drake Social, I bring a passion for creating unforgettable wedding experiences. Known as the 'semi-professional bridesmaid,' I first discovered my love for weddings while helping friends celebrate their big day. After earning my MBA, I joined Drake Social full-time, driven by my desire to create magical moments for couples.
My public relations and event planning background allows me to seamlessly manage wedding day logistics while adding a personal touch to every event. When not coordinating celebrations for our couples, I enjoy trying new restaurants and spending time with my dog, Blanche.
Marielle Matthews
My passion for event planning began with hosting gatherings in my home, where I saw each event as an opportunity to create a meaningful experience. At Drake Social, I approach weddings and event planning like a musician would a performance, orchestrating every detail to bring a client’s vision to life. Based in the Atlanta area, I love designing personalized events across the Southeast that reflect each couple’s unique love story.
With a Master of Music in Music Education from the University of Georgia, my background as an educator strengthens my communication skills, making me an attentive and proactive planner. Outside of planning, I enjoy teaching private piano and vocal lessons and playing with my daughter.
Ella Vance
Bringing ideas to life drives my passion for event management at Drake Social. Originally from Jackson, Mississippi, and a proud graduate of the University of Mississippi, I have refined my skills through hands-on experience, from large-scale corporate events to luxury social gatherings.
After launching my career with an internship in London and serving as Director of Marketing & Events for Modern Luxury, I joined Drake Social with a commitment to creating captivating and beautifully organized events. Based in Atlanta with my family, I bring an international flair and years of expertise to each wedding and event.
Jamiya Brinson
With a career rooted in creating unforgettable guest experiences, I bring a unique blend of sports and event coordination expertise to the wedding planning industry.
My journey began with a Bachelor of Exercise Science and advanced with a Master of Sports Administration and an MBA, equipping me with precision, logistics, and guest engagement skills.
At Drake Social, I work to ensure every wedding feels like a personalized and meaningful experience, with moments designed to wow and delight guests. When not immersed in wedding details, I enjoy baking, exploring new restaurants, and cheering on my favorite teams during football season.
Ally Dunn
With over two decades in the service and event industry, I bring a comprehensive skill set to Drake Social. My journey spans from hospitality management to lead event planner, and my experience includes expertise in managing and executing seamlessly organized luxury events.
Armed with a Psychology degree from Cal State Channel Islands, I understand the importance of attention to detail and client-centered service. Whether designing a beautiful tablescape or organizing a wedding timeline, I strive to create a stress-free and memorable day for each couple. Outside of planning, I enjoy art, gardening, and family adventures.
Abby and Drew | Sunstone Villa
Masterfully Detailed. Effortlessly Engaging. Truly Extraordinary. I cannot find enough words to express how eternally grateful & blown away my spouse & I are with Courtney Drake, Cait Madden & the Drake Social Team for tirelessly curating our dream wedding.”
Exceptionally Talented.
lizzie and Gordon | macarthur place
Drake Social Events was the single best investment we made for our wedding. From the initial consult to wedding day, we felt extremely taken care of. They were prompt with their communication, transparent on their process, patient and incredibly detail oriented."
can't recommend drake social enough...
lauren and carter | biltmore ballrooms
If you are a bride looking for a full service, bespoke, luxury planning experience, you absolutely must consider the Drake Social team. Courtney is the archetype of what you want your master of wedding planning ceremonies to look like - stylish and sophisticated; bubbly and effusive; discerning and business-oriented; and, above all, relationship driven."
stylish and sophisticated...
Saskia and Alex | Mandarin Oriental
when it came to planning weddings. She took our piecemeal vision and brought to life a celebration more breathtaking than we could have ever imagined. Her professionalism, creativity, charm, and warm personality are unparalleled."
In a league of her own...