Studio Something Blue is the fresh, creative sister company to Stephanie Benton Events. Born out of a desire to make exceptional event experiences more accessible. While Stephanie Benton Events continues to offer high-touch, full-service luxury planning and design, Studio Something Blue steps in with a curated collection of tiered services including event management, partial planning, and à la carte design support. Led by a talented team of associate and lead planners, Studio Something Blue brings the same thoughtful attention to detail and elevated style, just with a more flexible, approachable structure to meet a wider range of needs. Whether you’re looking for month-of coordination or design assistance to bring your vision to life, we’re here to make your celebration seamless, stylish, and uniquely you.
MEET GRAYSON
Grayson was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, where her love for celebrating life’s special moments first took root.
Her passion for weddings and events grew from a genuine joy in celebrating others and helping them feel seen. What began as a simple love for bringing people together soon became a calling to create thoughtful, memorable celebrations that reflect each couple’s story.
With two years of experience in the planning industry, Grayson brings a kind, personal touch to every event she plans. As part of the Studio Something Blue team, she values connection, creativity, and the beauty of meaningful details, ensuring every client feels supported and celebrated throughout the planning process.
MEET EMMA KATE
Emma Kate Bockelman was born in Kansas and raised in Northwest Arkansas, where she has built a fun and meaningful connection to the local community.
Her passion for weddings and events began while working alongside the talented Stephanie Benton, where she gained invaluable experience planning a wide range of celebrations. What started as a side project quickly blossomed into a true calling, and she’s been devoted to creating unforgettable events ever since.
As a Lead Planner at Studio Something Blue, Emma Kate brings a unique blend of creativity, organization, and heart to every event. With a background in marketing and a deep love for designing thoughtful, personalized experiences, she is dedicated to making each wedding a true reflection of the couple’s story, whether it’s an intimate gathering or a grand celebration.
MEET Ally
Ally Sanford was born in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and raised in the small town of Mount Ida, where her love for all things hospitality first began.
Growing up on her family’s resort, Ally developed a deep appreciation for creating meaningful experiences and welcoming spaces. From a young age, she knew she wanted a career centered around helping others make memories that last a lifetime. While pursuing her bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, Ally discovered her passion for event planning, and she hasn’t looked back since.
With a calm presence, creative eye, and strong attention to detail, Ally approaches every event with care and intention. Whether assisting with intimate gatherings or large-scale celebrations, she’s dedicated to ensuring every moment feels personal, seamless, and unforgettable. Her background in hospitality gives her a deep appreciation for exceptional service and thoughtful planning, and she takes pride in turning each couple’s vision into a one-of-a-kind experience.
MEET KARA
Kara Reaves was born and raised in Texarkana, Arkansas, and has called Northwest Arkansas home for the past seven years.
Her love for weddings and events began while working alongside Stephanie Benton, where she discovered a deep passion for celebrating life’s special moments. Over the past five years, Kara has gained invaluable experience planning everything from weddings to birthdays, showers, and themed parties, each one an opportunity to create something joyful and memorable.
Now planning her own wedding with Stephanie, Kara brings a thoughtful, empathetic approach to her work, understanding firsthand how meaningful each milestone can be. She believes every celebration should reflect the people it honors and is dedicated to making the planning process both seamless and fun. As a Planner at Studio Something Blue, Kara combines creativity, attention to detail, and genuine care to craft events that feel personal, purposeful, and full of heart.