Meet Elan Cohen | Owner @ Elan Event Rentals

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

Hi Elan, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
My love of travel led me to the path of starting my own business. In 2004 I saved enough money to source and import a few unique items that I’d come across in my travels. Soon after I began selling them throughout L.A. at flea markets. Then in 2012 I transitioned into event rentals. Over the years I’ve found that success to me is all about balance—finding harmony between ambition, personal growth, and adaptability. I believe there’s no such thing as a mistake, only opportunities to learn and improve. Trial and error are essential parts of growth. Every setback is a lesson in disguise. The key is to reflect on those experiences, extract valuable insights, and apply them moving forward. Discipline, creativity, and attention to detail are key. All while making time for the things you love. For me, this includes travel, surfing, skateboarding, and spending time with my tribe. I believe that success is about continuous learning, making intentional choices, and maintaining a sense of balance in all aspects of life.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Each year, I travel extensively, sourcing and designing a curated collection of handcrafted designs from around the world. Our warehouse/ showroom is located on a historic farm along the Gaviota Coast in Santa Barbara. I think I’m most proud of maintaining a simple business model, remaining boutique, and finding balance of work/play with my incredible team of family and friends. It wasn’t easy to get here. Without a college degree and no business training, I made mistakes. I learned there are rules. I also learned that you can make up your own. If you have a vision, dive in, follow your dreams and don’t let fear drive you. Don’t give up!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Santa Barbara is where I call home.
If a friend comes to visit, this might be our day.
Start the morning with a hike up Romero Canyon Trail which leads to some of the most incredible panoramic views of the Santa Barbara coast line, and Channel Islands.
Followed by an early afternoon drive up to the Santa Ynez Valley with a stop for lunch and live music at the historic Cold Springs Tavern.
Then an afternoon visit of our Warehouse/Showroom which is located in a greenhouse on a 60 acre coastal farm along the Gaviota Coast. I’ll introduce you to a few of the neighbors. They include an eclectic community of farmers, craftsmen, artists, and skateboarders. It’s also an event venue, skateboard park, farm, and includes a pristine empty beach. It’s a truly unique and special place.
We’ll finish the day off with dinner and a stiff pour at the Nugget Bar and Grill in Summerland. It’s old school and classic.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My wife is a seasoned professional in the event industry (Mar @TeamHairandMakeup). She encouraged me to transition from sales to rentals. Initially hesitant, I soon found inspiration which led to the creation of Elan Event Rentals in 2012, based in Santa Barbara, California. I wouldn’t be here without her!

Website: https://www.elaneventrentals.com

Instagram: @elaneventrentals

Facebook: @elaneventrentals

Image Credits
Anna Delores Photography
Lacie Hansen Photography
Kindred Weddings
Mike Larson Photography
Heather Kincaid Photography
TGR Photography
Isaac Hernandez
This Modern Romance