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

Hi Kristina, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The thought process behind starting Viva Planning & Event Design was deeply rooted in my passion for creating beautiful experiences and bringing people together. As a boutique wedding planning and design company, Viva is dedicated to celebrating life’s most cherished moments with intention and authenticity. With over six years of experience in events, marketing, sales, and branding, I realized my true purpose was in curating moments where people can celebrate fully and intentionally. The thought of never pursuing this dream weighed heavily on me, so I knew I had to take the leap and make it a reality.

The motto “Hay más tiempo que vida,” or “there’s more time than life,” was often emphasized by my mom growing up and truly embodies what Viva represents. I wanted to merge this perspective with my love for designing personal, beautiful experiences. This passion drove me to start Viva, allowing me to pour my heart into helping others celebrate their love stories and special moments.

Life is meant to be celebrated, and I am deeply honored and grateful to live my purpose and be part of so many special moments in people’s lives.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I want the world to know that Viva Planning & Event Design is more than just an event planning and design service; it’s a commitment to celebrating life fully and authentically and creating heartfelt experiences. Our motto, “Hay más tiempo que vida,” or “there’s more time than life,” guides our approach to living and celebrating with purpose. We are dedicated to creating moments that are not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful, allowing our clients to cherish their special celebrations for a lifetime.

What I’m most proud of is the ability to bring a client’s vision to life in a way that feels both elegant and deeply personal. Design has always been a passion of mine, and I’m incredibly proud that people are drawn to work with me because of my unique approach to creating beautiful and meaningful experiences. My passion for crafting heartfelt celebrations and fostering genuine connections drives everything I do. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our clients fully embrace their special moments and know that we played a part in making those memories unforgettable.

What excites me most is that we are still just at the beginning. Celebrating can happen anywhere, and I’m thrilled to see the impact my company will have on so many wonderful people. Whether it’s in sunny Southern California, off the beautiful Santa Barbara coast, in the vibrant towns of Mexico, or in a charming European villa, I’m eager to see where my designs can take me. Another aspect that excites me deeply is having the flexibility to create my own schedule. This allows me to be fully present with my family and cherish every moment with my future children, celebrating life’s special milestones together.

After more than six years in events, marketing, sales, and branding, I realized that pursuing my dream of running my own wedding planning and event design company was essential to my own fulfillment. Throughout my early career, I searched for a path that would excite me daily. It wasn’t until working at a startup in San Francisco, surrounded by passionate creative professionals and managing marketing solutions for wedding venues across the country, that I discovered wedding and event planning was my true calling. Though I needed time to prepare before diving in fully, each role I held provided valuable experiences and skills that I now use as an entrepreneur.

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?
There’s so much to do in Los Angeles! My friends and I love good eats, vibes, and outfits, so our itinerary would include something like: catching a Dodgers game, exploring the Getty Villa in Malibu, enjoying dinner and then laughs at The Laugh Factory, spending a day at Disneyland, brunch and shopping at Rodeo Drive or The Grove, and sipping drinks and savoring eats on Abbot Kinney Boulevard.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I am fully aware that I wouldn’t be at this stage in my life and business without the incredible support and influences of a few key people.

First, I have to recognize my amazing husband. His unwavering support and belief in my dreams are truly unmatched. He chases my dreams as if they were his own, and that commitment has been pivotal in bringing Viva Planning to where it is today. I can’t thank him enough.
I also want to acknowledge my parents. My mother’s motto, “Hay más tiempo que vida,” or “there’s more time than life,” has deeply influenced how I approach life and work. Her wisdom and perspective are woven into the very fabric of what Viva Planning & Event Design stands for. My father instilled in me the value of never giving up, and that grit has been integral to my journey. Together, they taught me the importance of hard work and perseverance, which have been crucial at every step of my career. Their combined influence has been foundational in shaping who I am today.

Lastly, I’m immensely grateful to my community—whether it’s from my early career roles in San Francisco, my studies at UC Santa Barbara, my friends and family from near and far, or the incredibly talented wedding professionals who have supported me from the start. Your kindness, encouragement, and support have been invaluable.

Every experience and lesson from my career has laid the groundwork for starting my own company, and I’m deeply thankful for all the support and guidance along the way. Thanks to everyone who has been a part of this journey with me!

Website: https://www.vivaplanningeventdesign.com

Instagram: @vivaplanningeventdesign

Image Credits
Venue Photos
Planning & Design | @vivaplanningeventdesign
Lead Photographer | @alyssalizarragephoto
Venue | @etienneestate
Event Photographer | @thekateson
Videographer | @stevendornfilms
Content | @lovelywedcontent
Florals | @petal__talk
Specialty Caterer | @sayang.market
Cake | @layeredcakesandbakes
Flatlay Stationery | @paperplum
Calligrapher | @catlaurencalligraphy
Signage | @luxeandlinen
Artist | @su.hey
Tabletop Rentals | @soiree8
Linens | @bbjlatavola
Rentals | @lapinataparty
Rentals | @townandcountry_eventrentals
Rentals | @stillinteriors
Mobile Bar | @lastcallmobilebar_
Beverage Catering | @liquidcouragela
Hair | @donebydomoniquebaez
Make Up | @christyyoo_artistry
Tuxedos | @friartux
Bridal Attire | @clairdelune.sf
Jewelry | @x_shaneli
Car Rental | @rhilledition
Harpist | @ginger_rose.harpist
Models | @baileyjanexoxo @thatdutchgal
Flatlay Mats | @lgartshop

Indoor Photos
Planning & Design: @vivaplanningeventdesign 
Photography: @alyssalizarragaphoto
Videography: @stevendornfilms
Florist: @felicidadenflor
Content Creation: @giftsforthegirls

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