Meet Ilana Rubin | Owner & Planner, Ilana Rubin Events

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

Hi Ilana, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factors contributing to my success are dedication, time, and what I like to refer to as thorough preparation. I devoted a significant portion of my career to the hospitality industry before starting my business. My journey began at the age of 15 as a hostess, gradually progressing within the hospitality sector, particularly in event management. Starting with creating themed nights to attract patrons to a hookah bar, I later transitioned to working with an event marketing agency that organized large-scale events like trade shows, concerts, and sports events. This experience led me to venture into venue management, overseeing weddings, corporate functions, and social gatherings. I attribute my business’s success to the years spent learning the industry intricacies before starting my own venture. Without the dedication and expertise acquired during this time, I believe I would not have achieved the level of success I enjoy today. I am sincerely thankful for the journey.

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?
My business is essentially a reflection of who I am. Bringing happiness to others is something that truly fulfills me. Hosting gatherings for my friends and witnessing their joy has always been a personal delight. This passion seamlessly intertwines with my professional work for my clients. I cherish the fact that my clients share a similar spirit to mine; our collaboration is not only productive but also enjoyable. We bond during the planning stages and often develop close relationships. I often joke that I have accumulated numerous adoptive parents in Southern California, forming quite an extensive family, ha!

However, the journey is not always smooth sailing. When you first start a business you need to be prepared to endure long hours, working seven days a week. Even now, when things are stable and established, as a business owner, the grind never stops. Fortunately, I am deeply passionate about my work, and it never feels like a tedious task. I thrive on the daily challenges and wouldn’t trade this fulfilling life for anything else.

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.
Oh gosh, as the hostess with the mostess my mind is racing with places right now. In sunny Southern California, there is ALWAYS something to do. A few places that I would love to share with anyone visiting would be Huntington Library and Gardens (easily can spend 6 hours there), 100% need a beach day, and most likely some kind of musical event is happening that we would check out. Recently my parents were visiting and I brought them to the House of Blues Open House/Summer Party. I always find something!

When I’m on vacation or hosting guests, dining is a top priority. I love sharing my favorite spots or exploring new ones. Some places I enjoy are Los Cholos in Anaheim for delicious tacos (or a papa loca), the cliff in Laguna for its stunning view, and StrongWater for drinks (if you haven’t been, it’s a must-visit spot).

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a special mention to my non-profit organization, Planner Power. This initiative was created to bring together the event planning community and make a positive impact. I strongly believe that by supporting each other, you and your peers can achieve great success together. In addition to supporting one another, we select a deserving group each year to host a joyful event for. This year, we are organizing a casino-themed evening for the residents of a senior living community to spread some holiday cheer in a classic and fun way.

Website: https://ilanarubinevents.com/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilanarubin

Image Credits
Photographer: Michelle Flores
Photographer: Dmitry Shumanev
Photographer: Jumi Story