Deborah Simmons ~

Over the past two decades, Deborah has orchestrated numerous weddings and rehearsal dinners, coordinated receptions and social functions for national and local elected officials, created corporate events for area businesses and much more.  Although her impressive list of clients include Fortune 100 corporations, professional athletes, and other persons of national recognition, she prides herself in the ability to work within many parameters to create amazing events.  

While planning her daughter’s wedding in 2004, Deborah re-kindled her passion for weddings and all the surrounding events.  Signature Occasions was officially formed in 2005, with the desire to offer unparalleled personal service, attention to the smallest detail and a quest for finding just the right touch to make your wedding or social event unique and memorable. 

Deborah has earned the designation of Professional Bridal Consultant™ from the Association of Bridal Consultants, after having completed all the requirements with distinguished honors.  As a result of her dedication to the Association and the wedding industry, she was most recently appointed the first ABC ~ Mississippi State Coordinator.

Along with her team, Deborah personally works with you in creating and planning your event, partially or in its entirety; from elegant weddings to chic parties or corporate events, all while maximizing your budget.   She travels from coast to coast, attending industry conferences and trade shows, to keep abreast of the latest trends and ideas in weddings and special events.

Brittney Strong ~

Brittney is a seasoned bridesmaid, maid of honor and most recently, a bride.  Her educational degree in interior design and her eye for color and style, make her a natural fit as a bridal consultant.  Brittney loves the pomp and circumstance of weddings and offers experience in various sizes and styles of ceremonies.  As one of our creative directors, she is always inventing new and exciting elements to make your event ‘one of a kind’.   

Brittney has also earned the designation of Professional Bridal Consultant™ from the Association of Bridal Consultants.

Kristen Blackard ~

Kristen is our most recent addition to the Signature Occasions' team.  She is a graduate from the University of Mississippi with a degree in Hospitality Management and has planned weddings and events for seven years.  Her experience ranges from initimate affairs to lavish 500 person receptions, destination weddings, themed parties and University fundraising events.  She prides herself on creating events specific to each bride and within their budget.  Kristen loves developing a relationship with a bride, understanding their vision and making it come true.  She describes wedding planning as a passion and a talent and is looking forward to meeting each new bride!