We had the good fortune of connecting with Cathy O’Connell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cathy, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
At COJ Events, our greatest strength lies in our authenticity and unwavering commitment to the highest standards of gracious hospitality. We genuinely care for our clients, and we extend that same care and respect to our creative and venue partners. Collaboration, teamwork, and support are the foundation of everything we do.

We believe in leading with kindness—ensuring that every client, vendor, and team member feels valued and respected. When an event is built upon a framework of care and concern, challenges are met with ease and possibilities expand.

This spirit of hospitality gives us the space to do what we do best: create extraordinary designs supported by flawless organization. We know that a truly successful event is where form and function meet—where artistry is matched with precision. It is this balance that elevates our celebrations to the highest level and defines the COJ Events experience.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
When I first stepped into the world of event planning over 20 years ago, the industry looked very different than it does today. There were no workshops, no training programs, no how-to manuals—it was very much a “jump in and figure it out” business. And that’s exactly what we did.

My background in interior design and corporate project management, paired with the experience my wife (and business partner) had in group retreats and interpersonal relations, gave us a head start as we planned our very first large wedding. We learned by doing, made plenty of mistakes, and kept moving forward. The joy, creativity, and adrenaline of the business had us hooked from that very first event—and now, hundreds of celebrations later, our passion for this industry continues to grow.

The most valuable lesson we’ve learned along the way? Ask for help, and accept it. In those early years, our creative partners were our greatest teachers. A floral designer showed us how to tie bows on chairs (back when those were all the rage). A lighting partner taught us the magic of atmosphere. A hotel catering manager let me stand behind the service line to understand how 200 plates make it to the table in perfect timing.

Even now, 21 years in, with an incredible team and a thriving company, I still believe in being a student of the industry. I continue to invest in education for myself and my team, to ask questions, and to embrace collaboration. And just as importantly, I believe in giving back—sharing advice, offering mentorship, and supporting the next generation of event professionals whenever I’m asked.

Because at the heart of COJ Events is this belief: we are stronger when we learn together, grow together, and celebrate together.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
There are far too many amazing places to explore in Los Angeles to fit into just one week. These are my favorite highlights, which will give the best of both worlds: a true insight into the city’s character and history, along with plenty of unique and creative things to do.

HISTORICAL LOCATIONS

Grand Central Market – Dive into historic L.A. food culture in this dynamic downtown food hall.

El Pueblo de Los Ángeles (Olvera Street) – The birthplace of L.A., featuring the 1818 Avila Adobe (the city’s oldest standing house), historic chapels, and Mexican marketplace vibes.

Bradbury Building (1893) – One of L.A.’s most iconic architectural gems, with ornate ironwork and a skylit atrium (featured in Blade Runner).

Union Station (1939) – “The last of the great railway stations,” blending Spanish Colonial, Mission Revival, and Art Deco styles.

Heritage Square Museum – A collection of rescued Victorian homes, allowing you to literally walk through L.A.’s 19th-century past.

HOLLYWOOD HISTORY

Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel (1927) – The site of the first Academy Awards, and a glamorous Old Hollywood haunt.

Hollywood Forever Cemetery – Resting place of stars like Rudolph Valentino and Judy Garland; often hosts film screenings.

Warner Bros. & Paramount Studio Tours – Both let you walk through decades of film history.

MUSEUMS AND LANDMARKS

The Getty Center is a must-see—an architecturally breathtaking museum, free to enter, with lush gardens and sweeping city views.

The Griffith Observatory & Park – Great hikes, planetarium shows, and unbeatable views of the Hollywood Sign. Plan your visit early in the day as the road up gets busy on the weekend.

Museum-hopping along Miracle Mile – Discover L.A.’s vibrant cultural scene on Wilshire Boulevard.

Los Angeles Conservancy Walking Tours – Guided tours through historic downtown, from Art Deco skyscrapers to hidden speakeasies.

The Gamble House (1908) – A masterpiece of Arts & Crafts architecture in Pasadena, with original furnishings.

Autry Museum of the American West – Explores Native history, cowboy legends, and the Old West in California.

Natural History Museum – Founded in 1913, it’s not just about dinosaurs—its historic architecture and early California exhibits are worth exploring.

JUST FOR FUN

Can’t miss DIsneyland!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
COJ Events would not be what it is today without the commitment and dedication of our partner, Angela Crawford. What began years ago as a part-time role has grown into her leadership as Vice President of Operations and full partner in the business.

Angela is the heartbeat of our operations—creative, confident, and endlessly funny. She brings warmth, laughter, and grace to every client interaction, working tirelessly to ensure each event unfolds seamlessly. With a strong background in hospitality, she has elevated our internal systems and taught us all how to be better planners, organizers, and collaborators.

Her gift is balancing structure with heart: keeping the details on track while reminding us all that events are about joy, connection, and celebration. COJ Events is stronger, more innovative, and more compassionate because of Angela’s leadership.

Website: https://www.cojevents.com

Instagram: @coj_events

Image Credits
Michael Segal
Mathew David Studio
Bambie Cantrell
Adam Griffin
Valerie Darling
Beatrice Howell

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.