Business Details
10 Years
experience
Your Trusted Event Planning Partner in South Carolina
Since 2016, Smooth Sailing has specialized in transforming event visions into seamless realities. Founded by Rachel Cole, our team combines formal education in event coordination with hands-on experience across weddings, nonprofit galas, and corporate functions. We prioritize meticulous attention to detail, ensuring every aspect of your event aligns with your goals and budget. Our approach balances creative execution with logistical precision, serving as the central point of contact for vendors, venues, and guests. With expertise in both full-service planning and day-of coordination, we adapt to client needs while maintaining industry-leading standards.Our track record includes high-profile nonprofit fundraisers and destination weddings, supported by testimonials highlighting stress-free execution and exceptional organizational skills. Backed by formal training from Wofford College and The Academy of Art Institute, we blend academic rigor with practical innovation. Whether managing tight budgets or elaborate designs, our focus remains on delivering flawless events that exceed client expectations.
Services
Wedding Planning
Event Coordination
Nonprofit Galas
Day-of Management
Budget Consulting
Details
- Year established: 2016
Highlights and features
- We offer 8+ years of specialized event coordination experience since 2016
- Our team holds formal education in event management and photography
- We provide budget optimization strategies for events of all scales
- Our 100% client satisfaction guarantee is backed by 5-star reviews
- We maintain direct communication with 100+ vetted industry vendors
What people say
Stress-free event
Attention to detail
Professional communication
Budget optimization
Vendor coordination
Services
Wedding Planning
Full-service wedding planning from concept to execution. Our specialists create personalized timelines, manage vendor contracts, and ensure seamless day-of operations. Clients receive budget tracking tools and design consultation to align every detail with their vision while maintaining financial discipline.
Nonprofit Galas
Mission-driven event coordination for nonprofit organizations. We specialize in fundraising galas, awareness campaigns, and donor appreciation events. Our team secures sponsorships, manages auction logistics, and implements cost-effective decor solutions that reinforce organizational branding.
Day-of Coordination
Comprehensive on-site event execution for pre-planned functions. Our team handles vendor check-ins, timeline adherence, and contingency planning to ensure smooth operations. Includes real-time problem resolution and post-event debriefing sessions with key stakeholders.
Budget Consulting
Strategic financial guidance for event planning. We provide line-item budget breakdowns, vendor cost comparisons, and value-engineering recommendations. Our expertise reduces average client expenses by 15-20% through negotiated supplier rates and resource optimization.
Vendor Management
Curated network of trusted vendors with contract negotiation support. Our system tracks deliverables, payment schedules, and performance metrics. Clients benefit from pre-established relationships with 100+ local vendors including florists, caterers, and AV technicians.
People
Rachel Cole
Owner & Lead Coordinator
Rachel Cole founded Smooth Sailing in 2016 after formal training at Wofford College and The Academy of Art Institute. With over 100 successfully executed events, she specializes in high-pressure coordination and vendor negotiation, maintaining a 98% client retention rate.
Questions
What types of events do you specialize in?
We specialize in weddings, nonprofit galas, and corporate events with customized coordination options for each.
Can you accommodate tight event budgets?
Yes, our team provides cost optimization strategies that maintain quality while reducing expenses by 15-20% on average.
What coordination levels are available?
We offer full-service planning, partial coordination, and day-of management tailored to client needs.
Do you work outside South Carolina?
While based in South Carolina, we coordinate destination events with advance planning and site visits.
How do you handle vendor issues?
Our team proactively manages vendor contracts and maintains contingency plans to resolve issues immediately.
