Poppy Planning, a premier Dallas-based event planning studio, continues to elevate the art of celebrations through a talented team of creative, detail-driven professionals. Known for producing refined weddings and bespoke gatherings, the company attributes its success to the diverse expertise and thoughtful vision of its leadership and coordination team.
Leadership That Blends Creativity with Global Insight
At the helm of Poppy Planning is Emmy Byers, Owner and Lead Planner, whose background in advertising and product launches brings a distinctive edge to her approach. Emmy began her career across Melbourne and New York City, managing high-level campaigns that required a careful balance of creativity and logistics. Eventually, she transitioned from launching brands to designing events—experiences centered around people rather than products.
Emmy’s international perspective and eye for storytelling shape Poppy Planning’s signature style: thoughtful, design-forward events that feel personal and intentional. She has led the company in curating everything from intimate backyard weddings to large-scale destination weekends, all with her trademark blend of elegance and ease.
A Team Rooted in Talent, Collaboration, and Precision
Working alongside Emmy is Director of Events Marley Gann Shipley, whose strategic oversight and team leadership help ensure that every vision is brought to life. Marley oversees vendor relationships, timelines, and client communications with professionalism and warmth, ensuring clarity and purpose throughout the planning process.
Event Coordinator Peggy McClure brings depth to the team through her logistical skills and ability to manage complex events. Her calm demeanor and organizational expertise are essential in ensuring even the most layered events run smoothly. Peggy’s role includes detailed planning, on-site coordination, and the behind-the-scenes work that helps make an event feel seamless.
Junior Coordinator Julia Fitzpatrick adds a fresh, design-focused perspective that enhances the creative process. Julia supports the team with everything from aesthetic curation to guest logistics, helping to refine the overall vision and ensure no detail is missed. Her contributions add style and structure to each event, making her an integral part of the planning process.
Designing Events with Purpose and Personality
At its core, Poppy Planning believes events should reflect the lives, values, and stories of the people behind them. The team approaches every celebration as a unique opportunity to create something meaningful—not just visually stunning but emotionally resonant. Whether planning a garden wedding, a multi-day celebration in the desert, or a refined corporate experience, the Poppy team leads with curiosity and intention.
Clients turn to Poppy Planning not for trend-based templates, but for collaborative, custom-built experiences. The team excels at uncovering what matters to each client, then crafting an event that honors that vision through thoughtful design and expert execution. From paper goods and layouts to lighting, food, and sound, each element is considered part of a greater story.

Photo Courtesy: Poppy Planning
Excellence Through Experience and Relationships
What sets Poppy Planning apart is its blend of big-picture vision and attention to detail. The team manages the full planning process with a calm, confident hand—developing budgets, overseeing vendor contracts, and creating run-of-show plans that account for every scenario. Their well-honed systems help clients feel supported and informed from start to finish.
Just as important are the vendor relationships Poppy Planning has built over the years. The team regularly collaborates with expert caterers, photographers, florists, and creative partners in Dallas and beyond, creating a strong network that helps ensure consistency, quality, and a shared commitment to excellence.
Shaping the Future of Event Design
As the event landscape continues to evolve, the Poppy Planning team is committed to staying ahead—exploring new tools, formats, and technologies that enhance the planning experience and elevate the guest journey. With a balance of creativity, strategy, and care, the team is reimagining what celebrations can look and feel like.
Poppy Planning’s team is more than a group of planners; they are designers, partners, and advocates for creating joyful, intentional experiences. Their combined strengths have helped shape one of Dallas’s respected event planning studios—and they’re just getting started.
Published by Joseph T.