Our Story
The Heart Behind MK Traditions
Two cousins, one shared passion, and a grandmother who taught us that the best moments in life are the ones we celebrate together.
How It All Began
Cousins First, Partners Always
We're Megan Olson and Katherine Ruffolo — cousins who are eight years apart but have been inseparable since Katherine was born. Growing up in a large, close-knit family, we spent every holiday, birthday, and “just because” gathering together.
From coordinating matching outfits at family reunions to planning elaborate surprise parties for our parents, we discovered early on that we share a gift for bringing people together and making moments special.
When we both found ourselves in the Triangle area — Megan after college, Katherine following her career — starting MK Traditions felt like the most natural thing in the world. It wasn't just about starting a business; it was about honoring the tradition of togetherness that our family instilled in us.
Meet Your Planners
The Faces Behind Every Event
Megan Olson
Co-Founder & Lead Planner
The detail-oriented dreamer. Megan has a knack for turning vague ideas into stunning realities. With a background in project management and an eye for design, she ensures every event flows seamlessly while looking absolutely beautiful. When she's not planning, you'll find her exploring local venues, testing new caterers, or perfecting her signature cocktail recipes.
Katherine Ruffolo
Co-Founder & Creative Director
The creative connector. Katherine brings warmth and personality to every client relationship. Her superpower is making people feel heard and understood, then translating their vision into unforgettable experiences. A natural hostess with an infectious laugh, she believes every celebration should feel as good as it looks.
“The table is ready when everyone you love is gathered around it.”
— Our Grandmother
Our grandmother didn't just host gatherings — she created magic. Her home was always open, her table always set for one more. She taught us that celebrations aren't about perfection; they're about presence. Every event we plan carries a piece of her spirit: the belief that bringing people together is the most important work we can do.
How We Work
Our Approach
Planning should be as enjoyable as the celebration itself. Here's how we make that happen.
Dream It
Tell us your vision. We start with a conversation to understand what makes your celebration unique — your style, your story, your must-haves.
Design It
We handle every detail. From venue selection to vendor coordination, timeline creation to décor design, we craft a comprehensive plan tailored to you.
Live It
Enjoy your event stress-free. On the big day, you're a guest at your own celebration while we ensure everything runs seamlessly.
Ready to Start Planning?
We'd love to hear about your vision. Let's create something unforgettable together.