Meet Brenda Garcia

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brenda Garcia and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brenda, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I’d love to say that owning a business has been my plan for a long time, but truthfully, it wasn’t. In 2019, I was diagnosed with Lupus, which unfortunately forced me to leave my career behind. I took some time off to fully commit to understanding and managing my new diagnosis. After spending some time away from the corporate world, I felt a bit lost. With a background in Architecture and Interior Design, and having been a Creative Director for many years, I wasn’t sure returning to the industry was ideal given my health concerns.

After discussing with my partner and family, they encouraged me to start my own company, recognizing my potential before I did. That’s how Brenarte & Co. came about. I created a business plan on my own, learning as I embarked on this journey. I booked and designed a few events in 2021 and 2022 to test the waters and fully committed in 2023. Initially, it was challenging to understand how to book clients, but I am fortunate to have incredible friends who hired me for their personal events, helping me build my portfolio.

I will forever be grateful for their support. Since then, I haven’t needed to market myself; word of mouth has been incredibly effective, allowing me to book the clients I have today. My journey into event planning has been unexpected but deeply rewarding.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Readers should know that Brenarte & Co. is dedicated to creating exceptional and personalized event experiences. My approach is rooted in a deep understanding of design and a commitment to detail, ensuring that every event is a unique reflection of our clients’ vision and style.

What sets me apart is the extensive background in Architecture, Interior Design, and Creative Direction, which informs my innovative and meticulous approach to event planning. I combine creativity with project management expertise to deliver high-quality results and memorable experiences.

I pride myself on building strong relationships with clients and providing a highly personalized service. Whether it’s a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, I truly bring passion and dedication to every project, ensuring each event is executed with precision and care.

My journey to this point has been filled with challenges. Starting a business is never easy, and I faced numerous obstacles along the way, from managing finances to building a client base. I’ve learned valuable lessons along the way. Firstly, the importance of adaptability and being open to learning from every experience. Secondly, the power of building a strong network – from reliable vendors like Marissa & Debrah, two very talented photographers, and Anahy and Ana, incredible balloon artists, to loyal clients who become advocates for my business. Lastly, the significance of staying true to my values and maintaining the highest standards of quality and service.

I want readers to know that Brenarte & Co. is not just about event planning; it’s about creating lasting memories and moments of joy.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When I’m not designing or working out, I love to unwind and explore my favorite spots. Here’s the itinerary I would create for a week-long visit:

Day 1:
– Morning: Stroll at Venice Beach.
– Lunch: Eat at Gjelina.
– Afternoon: Visit Mar Vista Farmers Market.
– Evening: Dinner at The Mar Vista.

Day 2:
– Morning: Workout at a local park or beach.
– Brunch: Smoothie at Pressed Juicery.
– Afternoon: Explore Santa Monica Pier.
– Dinner: Eat at Huckleberry Bakery & Cafe.

Day 3:
– Morning: Visit Getty Center.
– Lunch: Dine at The Getty’s restaurant.
– Afternoon: Shop and explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard.
– Dinner: Try Little Pine.

Day 4:
– Morning: Day trip to Malibu.
– Lunch: Eat at Malibu Farm.
– Afternoon: Explore Malibu’s coastline.
– Dinner: Ice cream at Salt & Straw.

Day 5:
– Morning: Yoga or walk on Venice Beach.
– Brunch: Cafe Gratitude.
– Afternoon: Relax at Palisades Park.
– Dinner: The Butcher’s Daughter.

Day 6:
– Morning: Explore Mar Vista shops.
– Lunch: Local Table.
– Afternoon: Visit LACMA.
– Dinner: Erewhon Market.

Day 7:
– Morning: Final visit to Venice Beach or bike ride.
– Brunch: Joan’s on Third.
– Afternoon: Last-minute shopping or favorite spots.
– Evening: Sunset walk at Griffith Observatory, dinner at Gjusta.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely. I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my partner, Serj Khajadourian. Our lives changed significantly in 2019 when I had to shift career paths and take an extended break from work. During this challenging time, Serj was a constant source of support and encouragement. He was always there for me, offering help in any way he could an assuring me that I could take as much time as needed.

Despite the difficulties, I was determined not to let my hard-earned education go to waste, and Serj’s unwavering support played a crucial role in helping me remain resilient. His patience and strength, especially considering the challenges of living with someone with Lupus, have been invaluable. Serj recognized my potential and has never wavered in his belief in me. His motivation has been instrumental in helping me stay strong both mentally and physically. I am forever grateful for his love and support.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brenarteandco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brenarteandco 

Image Credits
@debmophoto @shotbymarissa