

our team
Our planners are down-to-earth people and believe events should be creative. We are judgement-free and won’t make you feel like your quirky ideas are “bad” – in fact, we will probably love them.

CARLENE HARTLINE
OWNER AND LEAD EVENT PLANNER
PRONOUNS: SHE/HER
Carlene has always been enthusiastic about the details and obsessed with making lists! Whether she was planning themed birthday parties at ten years old, organizing midnight theater viewings of super geeky movies, or helping family and friends plan their most important life moments, she was always known as the planner among those around her.
While earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Advertising, Carlene worked for a prestigious wedding photographer as a day-of coordinator and couple de-stressor extraordinaire. It wasn’t until she moved to Chicago and took several coordination roles in the hospitality industry that she had that “ah ha” moment: “I love to plan events and I rock at it!” From there, her planning passion became her life’s work and Naturally Yours Events came into fruition.
Over her 15+ years of experience, Carlene has developed planning tools built for efficiency- leaving no detail overlooked- so she can focus on keeping things lighthearted while fostering creative ideas that are original, memorable, and truly personalized.
When she is not planning super cool events, you can find Carlene baking crazy ambitious recipes, binge watching shows with her amazing husband, riding her bike around town and getting out in nature, trying new brews and brunch spots, singing loudly in the car to all the broadway show tunes, discovering the world through the eyes of her little baby girl, and dreaming up all the places they will travel together as a family.
fun facts
- Always eats her vegetables
- Has only the best of the Capricorn traits
- Queen of accidental puns
- Never backs down from a Dance Dance Revolution challenge

KRISTEN STEWART
Associate Event Planner and Office Manager
PRONOUNS: SHE/HER
Kristen has an unwavering energy and a positive “let’s go!” attitude that makes her an integral team player. She has a passion for coordinating details to perfection and turning her client’s vision into a reality, the resourcefulness to make the best of any situation, and a freakishly organized emergency kit. Her motto has always been to prepare well, have fun, and save the earth- whether from zombie hordes or large carbon footprints.
After receiving her Bachelor’s Degree in Sales & Business Marketing at Western Michigan University (Go Broncos!) and years of various (and interesting) work experiences, Kristen found planning events allowed her to express her creativity and innovative ideas for solving challenges. In 2014, she set her mind to pursue an event planning career- finding a home at Naturally Yours Events. On event days, Kristen loves looking around the dance floor, finding the couple’s smiling faces, and knowing- “I helped make this happen.” This exciting part of a wedding also means she can eat dessert and discuss her picks for best dressed of the night, ha!
On non-event weekends, you’ll find Kristen switching roles and attending a wedding as a guest, lounging at Chicago’s lakefront with a good book or playing beach volleyball, enjoying the daily life moments with her husband (who helped plan their surprise wedding!), and adding to her beer coaster collection.
fun facts
- Had a SURPRISE wedding
- Avid Great British Bake-Off judge
- HAS JUMPED OUT OF A PLANE - TWICE!
- Manages a neighborhood book club

LIZZIE STAM
ASSOCIATE EVENT CONSULTANT and venue Manager
PRONOUNS: SHE/HER
Outgoing, Obsessive, Eccentric—these are the three words Lizzie Stam uses to describe herself. An undeniable extrovert, Lizzie loves striking up conversations and bringing her vibrant energy to any room. Her passion for television shows reveals her obsessive side, where she dives deep into her favorite series. Embracing her eccentric nature, Lizzie adorns herself daily with outfits and jewelry that spark joy.
Lizzie didn’t take the traditional college route. Instead, she embarked on an adventurous journey as a flight attendant right after high school, eager to explore the world beyond her small Iowa hometown. Eventually, the bustling city of Chicago captured her heart.
Her favorite part of weddings and events is the journey—getting to know couples and their families, and discovering their unique visions. Lizzie thrives on the variety and possibilities each couple brings.
The events industry wasn’t always on her radar, but a suggestion from a roommate sparked the realization that she would excel as a wedding planner. After her flight attendant days, Lizzie dove into wedding planning with zeal, and four years later, she’s still passionately crafting dream weddings.
Lizzie’s planning approach is rooted in organization. She tackles tasks in manageable chunks, ensuring no deadlines are missed and avoiding overwhelming projects. Currently, she’s loving the goth wedding style—imagine all-black décor with grand waxy taper candles in a spooky, haunted venue!
On her off weekends, Lizzie is a master sleeper and thrift store enthusiast. With a cup of coffee in hand, she enjoys leisurely browsing for unique finds.
fun facts
- Really Brings the fire as a Triple Sag
- Puts ketchup on everything (don’t @ her)
- Self-Proclaimed Theatre Nerd
- Invented the cure for everything (eating candy in the bathtub)

MEL FOLEY
ASSOCIATE EVENT PLANNER AND SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
PRONOUNS: SHE/HER
Mel is a triple fire sign Aries and if you know anything about zodiac signs, you know that an Aries can’t be beat and will face all challenges head on. Mel is a sucker for sweet & nostalgic details and has a soft spot for vintage anything.
Mel’s passionate personality drove her into the events industry beginning with organizing variety & comedy shows, vintage markets, wellness workshops, and film & photo shoots in her studio loft with her Columbia College community of students & artists. Mel has produced experiential marketing campaigns across the country, served as an onsite event manager for a Chicago wedding venue, and is a city production manager for Candlelight Concerts.
Joining the Naturally Yours team felt natural, to say the least. Mel loves sustainability in events and likes to think of themself as the couple’s best advocate. On non-wedding weekends you can catch Mel people-watching at farmers markets & gallery openings, exploring the world through the lens of old school film cameras, or running as fast as possible to an oyster & natural wine happy hour.
fun facts
- A true green juice junkie
- You will find pressed flowers in every book they own
- Her other “job” is a baby whisperer
- Has earned a title of “Best gift giver”

EVELYN ONATE
Associate Event Consultant
PRONOUNS: SHE/HER
Evelyn combines a strong-willed determination, impenetrable composure, and mindfulness for creating special events into her natural planner spirit. She finds joy in celebrating others and always approaches challenges in a calm manner so as to never make a storm out of a drizzle.
She soaks up knowledge like a sponge and after accomplishing two degrees in Business and Education she’s earning a Masters in Special Education from Dominican University. Her love of events came early on from planning large family parties to interning with a wedding dress maker. Now she couldn’t be happier to be a part of the Naturally Yours Events team and her clients’ celebrations.
At the beginning of the planning process, she gets a thrill out of learning all about her clients so she can incorporate as many personal elements into their event and truly understand each and every aspect of their combined vision. When it’s time to take a load off, which is seldom, Evelyn loves becoming a couch potato and relaxing with loved ones while telling real life paranormal stories.
fun facts
- Dreams of becoming a Disney princess
- Can incorporate marshmallows into every meal
- Feels she must have been a mermaid in another life
- Views her car as her personal karaoke stage

LIZ BREEN
Associate Event Consultant
PRONOUNS: SHE/HER
Liz brings her adventurous spirit, affinity for nature, and ability to think outside the box to the Naturally Yours Events team! From early high school days, to Lawrence University where she earned Psychology & Education degrees, to festivals near and far- Liz has developed a lifelong love for producing events that bring communities together like Burning Man, Full Moon Jam, and Chiditarod. Simply being a spectator is not her forte, she MAKES things happen.
Liz approaches events by looking at the big picture, digging into her client’s style to find creative ways of expressing their personalities, and then organizing it all into meticulous to-do lists. She understands planning can have its challenges and is committed to making it a fun experience for her clients. When they are walking back up the aisle, hand-in-hand, after saying “I do”, she can’t help but think how all their hard work has paid off so they can truly enjoy this very moment.
When Liz takes a pause from her whirlwind life of events, you’ll most likely find her outdoors either going for a bike ride, camping, gardening or organizing her garage. She loves to relax in the mornings while drinking a tasty cup of chai or at night watching one of her favorite shows after putting her son (her little big man) to bed.
fun facts
- Has traveled around the world
- Dances with a hula hoop of fire... professionally!
- Will always say yes to a margarita
- Never lets tasty food or pretty things go to waste

TEMPRIS DANIELS
Associate Event Consultant
PRONOUNS: SHE/HER
Tempris is never afraid to beat to her own drum- in fact she loves to which is why she’s a perfect fit for our quirky team at Naturally Yours Events. As the planner in her family, she organized celebrations from birthday parties to vacations and then moved on to sorority events and friends’ weddings. Her attention to detail and eye for design ensures everyone always has a great experience.
After receiving her Masters in Higher Education from Loyola University, Tempris engaged her passion for being socially responsible at UChicago’s Harris School of Public Policy, planning concerts, orientations, and more. She’s always had a love for weddings as well and says she feels fulfilled when everyone is having a good time while busting a move on the dance floor. When planning, she believes it’s important to trust your instincts and have a well-organized Pinterest board of all your thoughts and inspiration.
Tempris enjoys going to festivals and community events around the city as well as dining with friends at a new local restaurant. She’ll always take time to slow down and relax to work on her wellness regimen that includes yoga & earth-friendly facials while also living life as an ambassador for natural, cruelty-free, and sustainable beauty & lifestyle products.
fun facts
- Won’t go a day without a green smoothie
- Can easily win any celebrity gossip pop-culture quiz
- Has a running list of dream power female dinner invitees
- Believes everyone should have a self-care routine

KATIE LIANG
Associate Event Consultant
PRONOUNS: SHE/HER
Meet Bubbly, Empathetic and Determined Katie Liang – a creative force within Naturally Yours Events. With her infectious smile and conversational skills, Katie always finds a way to connect with people and understand their unique stories.
Although Katie graduated from the University of Illinois with a Bachelor’s degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology, she soon realized that her true passion lay in event planning. Her favorite part of weddings and events is seeing people from all walks of life come together to celebrate and create a sense of family.
Katie describes her approach to planning events as a form of art, starting with a concept and slowly adding different components and personal touches to create a unique and sentimental experience. Her personal style for events is all about finding what is natural and elevating it to the next level.
When she’s not planning events, Katie can be found on the couch with her 10-year-old husky, Skylar, or playing all types of video games with friends. With her entire sentimental heart, Katie is determined to make every event she plans a unique and personal experience for her clients.
fun facts
- A self-proclaimed gamer-girl
- You will find ginger in most every meal they cook
- always sipping on a cup of tea
- Space-obsessed with their head in the stars

SAMANTHA SCHROEDER
Associate Event Consultant
PRONOUNS: SHE/HER
Samantha has a degree in elementary education from Saint Mary’s and currently teaches 4th grade math and science, her two favorite subjects! While teaching has always been her #1 career goal, she has always enjoyed weddings and planning imaginary events as she watched all the infamous TLC wedding shows. After helping some of her friends plan their weddings, she eventually found the team at Naturally Yours Events.
Samantha’s level-headed & thoughtful approach is incredibly valuable in event production. She loves being part of transforming a space from a blank slate into a magnificent event, seeing how couples include personal touches, and passionately guarding sweets tables until the photographer has all of the detail shots.
Samantha tries to climb outdoors and camp as much as she can. A memorable trip included backpacking part of the Pacific Crest Trail! When the weather is cooler, you’ll most likely find her on the couch binge-watching TV shows, lesson planning, cooking, or rearranging the furniture in her apartment.
fun facts
- Found one of her roommates through NYE
- Her hair is the same color as her favorite vegetable
- Aspires to be Ms. Frizzle when she “grows” up
- Obsessed with 'Six' the Musical

LOLA LAUER
Associate Event Consultant
PRONOUNS: SHE/HER
Lola Lauer brings a vibrant mix of creativity, resourcefulness, and intentionality to her role at Naturally Yours Events. Currently preparing to pursue a degree in Interior Architecture and Furniture Design, Lola’s passion for design is evident in her love for intricate table settings at weddings.
With a dream of becoming an interior designer specializing in restoring vintage buildings, Lola’s attention to detail seamlessly translates to her event planning approach. She’s organized, relying on lists and schedules to bring her design-focused vision to life.
When she’s not working, Lola immerses herself in art, antique shopping for unique furniture, and hosting dinner parties for friends. She also enjoys romping around the woods with her dog and going on adventurous camping trips abroad with her fiancé.
fun facts
- Proud caretaker of a goldfish that's been alive for 9 years and counting.
- Mastered the art of making the perfect BLT.
- Her sock drawer is more organized than most people's entire homes.
- Recently self-published her own cookbook.

DHRUVI SHAH
Associate Event Consultant
PRONOUNS: SHE/HER
Dhruvi Shah brings her bubbly, organized, and energetic spirit to Naturally Yours Events. A graduate of the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign with a degree in Finance and ISIT, Dhruvi found her passion for event planning naturally in 2023, making Naturally Yours Events the perfect fit for her.
Her favorite part of weddings is the magical moment when the bride and groom are officially announced as newlyweds and make their grand entry. Dhruvi’s planning style is a blend of vintage, luxury, and classic, creating timeless and elegant events.
On her off weekends, Dhruvi enjoys practicing yoga, reading, and soaking up the sun.
fun facts
- has racked up visits to 10+ South Asian countries.
- her closet looks like a perfectly organized grayscale rainbow.
- she's never broken a bone (knock on wood!).
- Has never finished a can of beer (but she’s always up for the challenge.)

AMRITA SINGH
Administrative Assistant
PRONOUNS: SHE/HER
Amrita has a true entrepreneurial spirit! As the founder of her own travel planning business, she takes great pride in creating lasting memories for her clients. Her interest in event planning grew as she became involved in planning networking events for fellow entrepreneurs and she realized the wedding & event industry, along with her travel planning experience, could be the perfect match!
She craves excitement in the everyday and believes life is meant to be enjoyed however you can. Her bubbly personality makes the planning process fun and she’s passionate about identifying unique ways to make her client’s experience special & memorable. At Naturally Yours Events, we adore injecting personality into all of our events!
Amrita loves going out with good friends to top restaurants and bars in Chicago or for a longer escape you can find her exploring a nice winery. She’s always down for a fun night of karaoke or just having a quiet night in hanging with her adorable Cockapoo named Crouton.
fun facts
- A trained choir singer, who now rocks out at karaoke
- Harry Potter Superfan
- World traveling passport stamp collector
- Favorite partnership? A wine & cheese plate

ZOÉ FACEY
Associate Event Consultant
PRONOUNS: SHE/HER
Zoé Facey is a jubilant, passionate, and creative artist who strives to bring every vision to life with tenacity, dedication, and grace. She graduated from Columbia College Chicago with a major in Media Broadcast and Journalism, which provided her with valuable skills that she now uses to execute a variety of notable events.
Because of her love for bringing joy to people’s life, Zoé’s favorite part of any event is when everyone can let loose and boogie. Her approach to planning is all about finding a way to make every detail come to life and for creativity to shine in an authentic way.
In her free time, Zoé loves spending time with friends and enjoying food and laughter. She was born in Jamaica and immigrated to the US at the age of six but the ocean is always her happy place where she finds peace and inspiration.
fun facts
- Avid people watcher on the dance floor
- has a natural remedy for most all aliments
- has a deep love for rainy days
- Considered by most to be a theater nerd

DANNY BARKER
Associate Event Consultant
PRONOUNS: SHE/HER
Meet Danny- an adventurous and positive person with a thoughtful personality. Her enthusiasm for trying out new experiences, be it trying new foods or indulging in new activities, is what drives her. Her friends and family also appreciate her thoughtful and generous nature (Danny is the best gift giver).
Danny graduated from the University of Iowa with a major in Communications, focusing on Television Production and a Certificate in Event Management. She realized her passion for planning events during her college days, where she planned and hosted a 20th anniversary Harry Potter movie marathon, which became one of her favorite college memories.
For Danny, the most exciting part of planning an event is the problem-solving stages, when the ideas start to come together, and when she gets to see guests interact with the unique elements that were incorporated into the day . She believes that planning ahead is the key to any successful event.
In her free time, you can find Danny spending time with her friends and family or traveling to sun-filled destinations.
fun facts
- An A+ parallel parker
- named after her Grandpa Danny
- She's a tried-and-true Gryffindor!
- Will eat anything with goat cheese in it

SARA NARVAEZ
Associate Event Consultant
PRONOUNS: SHE/HER
Sara Narvaez is a dynamic force in event planning, combining her education from the New York Institute of Art and Design with over a decade of experience in high-volume events. She has been at the helm of major music festivals like Lollapalooza and sporting events with the NFL and Nascar. As a jack of all trades in the event realm, Sara brings extensive knowledge in handling crowds big and small, ensuring your event runs seamlessly and safely.
Her favorite part of events is watching the magic unfold and seeing the clients’ joy when their vision comes to life. Always the life of the party, Sara transitioned from major events to weddings at the height of 2020 and has been in love (pun intended) ever since.
Sara’s approach to planning is timely, consistent, and, most importantly, fun. Her personal style for events is all about creating memorable experiences that resonate with her clients’ visions. When she’s not planning events, Sara is an avid traveler, always exploring new places.
fun facts
- Proud pet parent to Grizzly the dog and two cats, Jax and Oreo.
- Loves dancing like no ones watching
- Has really strong hands (is a Licensed Massage Therapist.)
- Recently got engaged and is excited about planning her own wedding!