Elegant, Intentional, and Rooted in the South: Mariée Ami’s Event Planning Philosophy
With a signature blend of refined vision and warm hospitality, Neillie Butler, founder of Mariée Ami, has become a go-to name among Alabama event planners. Based in Birmingham, Neillie and her team create elevated, intentional experiences that balance modern elegance with classic Southern charm. Whether planning an intimate celebration or a large-scale wedding, their approach is rooted in thoughtfulness, creativity, and hospitality.
Mariée Ami is known for translating meaningful stories into beautifully designed gatherings. In this edition of The Expert Instinct, Neillie shares insights into her process, her love of detail, and why good planning is always about more than just the pretty.
A Conversation with Event Planner Neillie Butler
What is your signature style?
Style that is relevant today but will remain elegant and appealing for years to come.
How do you describe your creative approach?
Deeply understanding the client's style and establishing a vision rich with detail and creativity that is uniquely custom to them.
Where do you search for new inspiration?
Restaurants, hotels, interior design and fashion.
What do you recommend investing most in?
Quality design pieces over quantity. Make an impact that stands out!
Team big or small: What type of events do you prefer?
Team "southern" small which means not tiny but small enough to focus on the detail!!
How far in advance should people hire a planner?
One year out. It gives your vendors enough time to be creative and not rushed.
Best advice for a bride-to-be?
Hire professionals and let them run with your style. They know best.
What do you wish more people understood about what you do?
Wedding planning is so much more than managing vendors and picking out pretty things. There is a true art to understanding people and bringing a vision to life in both a beautiful and seamless way. Without a perfectly executed event and unreasonable hospitality for the guest, the pretty will not be appreciated. It all matters!
If you weren’t a planner, what would you be?
A therapist.
