Before A Lively Event was ever a business, it was a feeling.

​

Katie’s younger sister, Breann, was born in September of 1990. She had Down syndrome — an extra chromosome that made her life brighter, fuller, and undeniably joyful. Breann approached the world with unfiltered happiness, fierce loyalty, and a personality that could fill any room.

​

She loved music. She loved dancing. She especially loved chicken nuggets. And she was never shy about sharing her opinions — often reminding Katie to “get a life” or fiercely protecting her with “Don’t kissa my sissta!” There was never a dull moment growing up with Breann. She kept everyone laughing and constantly on their toes.

​

But in 2005, everything changed.

​

After a sudden seizure and months of declining health, Breann passed away on August 6th. The loss left an immeasurable void in Katie’s life and in her family. Moving forward without her “chicken nugget” felt impossible.

​

At Breann’s wake, a butterfly lingered near the family — a small but meaningful sign that felt like her presence. Since then, the butterfly has become a lasting symbol. It lives in the A Lively Event logo, in Katie’s tattoos, and in the quiet moments that remind her of the bond they still share.

 

In 2007, Katie welcomed her son Kaleb. As she began planning elaborate celebrations for him, friends naturally turned to her for help with their own weddings and events. What began as helping loved ones slowly revealed itself as something more — a calling.

​

When it came time to name the business, nothing felt right. Katie considered names that included Breann directly, but they didn’t quite capture her spirit. Then, while describing her sister one day, she found herself repeating the same word: lively.

 

No one was more lively than Breann.

 

And in that moment, it clicked.

 

A Lively Event.

 

A name that honors Breann’s joy, her energy, her love of celebrations — and the belief that life’s milestones should never feel ordinary.

​

The business officially launched in 2012, built with intention, education, and heart. Every celebration planned since carries a piece of that original inspiration.

​

Today, Breann’s legacy lives on not only in the butterfly within the brand, but also in Katie’s daughter, Briella — lovingly called “Bre” — named in honor of her aunt.

​

Breann loved weddings. She loved parties. She loved joy.

​

And through every wedding A Lively Event designs, her spirit remains — lively as ever.

​

Let’s Create Something Meaningful.

​

If our story resonates with you, we would be honored to guide your celebration with the same intention and care.