ELLEN THOMAS
OWNER & LEAD DESIGNER
We work alongside extremely talented vendors, and we pride ourselves in making sure you are paired with the perfect creative team. There is no dream too big or small, and we work to prove that in every area of our planning process. At Ellen Thomas Event Design, our team is comprised of talented designers dedicated to each of our client’s. While your day to day correspondence will be with Ellen or one of our designers, it takes a team to bring your vision to life.
Ellen Thomas’ passion for event planning started at a young age. After graduating from the University of Mississippi in hospitality management, Ellen began her career in Nashville, Tennessee, where she planned weddings, corporate events and music industry events for some of the top music labels and artists in the United States. After four fun-filled years, she felt the call to come back home to Mississippi and start her own company. Thus, Ellen Thomas Event Design was born.
With nearly 10 years of experience in the event industry Ellen thrives off of creativity and delegating. She values her teammates, clients, vendors, family and friends. Planning and executing multiple events a year requires a great team and leading that team to great success. Simply put, Ellen’s mission is to make her clients’ dreams come true. With impeccable attention to detail, Ellen makes sure that every aspect is planned to perfection. She loves getting to know her clients and working with them to make their vision come to life. In Ellen’s spare time, you will catch her sipping a freshly poured prosecco and traveling to the next destination on her bucket list!
MEET THE TEAM
Maddie Rankins, a graduate of the University of Mississippi, holds a bachelor’s degree in integrated marketing and communications with an emphasis in public relations. Maddie joined the ETED team following graduation in 2021. She has always felt a connection to the inspiration and creative components of weddings. She guides each client to their vision with her unique designs and artistic style. Maddie brings the spunk to our team with her lively personality. Her favorite thing about event planning is creating intentional relationships with her clients, perfecting the small details and logistics, and delivering direction with vibrance and a positive outlook. When she isn’t working, she loves to have drinks with her friends, go on long runs, and read a good book.
Maddie Rankins
Event Designer
Emma Kieser graduated from the University of Mississippi and received a bachelor’s degree in integrated marketing and communications with a minor in business in 2024. Emma joined the ETED team following graduation in 2024. Her bubbly, infectious personality always brightens up the room. She loves being able to connect with clients, creating genuine relationships with them, and watching their dreams come to life. Whenever she isn’t working, she loves anything from grabbing a drink to traveling with her friends and family.
EMMA KIESER
EVENTS ASSISTANT
