Meet Melena Guevara | Wedding Planner

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

Hi Melena, what is the most important factor behind your success?
For me, the most important factor behind my success has been consistency—showing up day after day, delivering for my clients, and staying rooted in the values that define my brand. But consistency alone isn’t enough. Mindset plays a huge role. I’ve worked hard to cultivate a mindset of possibility, growth, and problem-solving, especially in an industry where curveballs are constant and the problems seem never ending. Also, none of it would be possible without the right team. Surrounding myself with people who are just as committed, detail-oriented, and heart-forward as I am has made all the difference. Success isn’t a solo act—it’s a result of aligned energy, clear vision, and the right people by your side.

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?
I didn’t start my career in weddings — I actually came from the beauty industry, where I spent years planning educational events for hairstylists, which was my dream growing up. I love all things hair and makeup, and the challenge of finding ways to make budgets work while still providing value for our clients was memorizing. I loved the fast-paced logistics, the creativity, and the energy that came from bringing people together for a shared experience. It wasn’t until I planned my own wedding that I truly felt something click. That process showed me just how much I love creating meaningful, beautiful events.

After getting laid off in 2020, I made the leap and started my own wedding planning business. It was a wild time to launch anything in the events world, since everything was full of uncertainty. But it was also incredibly clarifying. I learned how much I love what I do, how to stay flexible under pressure, and how to keep couples feeling calm and cared for in the face of chaos.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that you absolutely can’t do this work alone. I’m so proud of the team that’s grown around me — they support not just me, but our clients and each other. Their talent, heart, and dedication are a huge part of what makes this business special.

These days, whether I’m planning a joyful, intimate elopement or a vibrant, large-scale celebration, my goal is always the same: to help couples feel seen, supported, and totally present for one of the most important days of their lives.

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.
One of the best parts of living and working in this area is how much it truly feels like home. I grew up in Studio City, but like to call Thousand Oaks my spiritual home. If you’re in Ventura County, I have so many favorite spots around town that keep me grounded, inspired, and — let’s be honest — well-fed.

Stonehaus is always my go-to for a glass of wine and a moment to unwind. The ambiance is beautiful, the wine selection never disappoints, and don’t even get me started on their charcuterie board. On the more low-key side, the Elks Lodge in Thousand Oaks serves up a tri tip sandwich on Saturdays that’s truly worth planning your weekend around. It’s a hidden gem, and I’ll argue with anyone who says otherwise.

I spent my college years (and let’s be real, some very formative ones) at Cisco’s Mexican Restaurant — a place that’s equal parts nostalgia and genuinely amazing food. It’s like the “Cheers” bar come to life. Their margaritas are next-level, and there’s just something about that place that makes you want to sit and stay awhile.

When I need to clear my head or reset after a busy wedding weekend, I love hiking out to Paradise Falls or along the Sapwi Trail. The views, the quiet, the fresh air — it’s the best kind of recharge. And because balance is everything, I’ll usually find myself doing a little retail therapy at the Camarillo Outlets after. It’s all about knowing when to hit the trail and when to hit the sale rack.

This community has shaped me in more ways than one, and I feel lucky every day to live and work in a place that offers so much joy, flavor, and inspiration.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shoutout my husband, David, our daughter, Austin, and my mother, Susan, for their endless support. Running a business is an incredibly challenging feat and I would not be where I am today without their constant love and support!

Website: https://www.sageandslateweddings.com/

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

Image Credits
Emma Hopp, Morgan Payne, Nicole DeAnda, Morgan V Photography, Zachary Mathew King