Who We Are
We are a professional and passionate team, specializing in creating memorable moments for clients. Whether it is a wedding, birthday, corporate meeting, or brunch, we craft custom experiences for all milestones, big or small. Learn more about this sister squad below!
Maritza Koponen, Lead Coordinator
With over 10 years of experience planning and executing social and corporate events across the country, she is Koponen Events’ secret weapon when it comes to organizing memorable moments. After pursuing a degree from the L. Robert Payne School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at SDSU with an emphasis in meetings and events, she was selected for the ultra-competitive Food and Beverage Manager-in-Training program for world-reknown Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. While a manager at the Four Seasons, she worked in Baltimore, Houston, Las Vegas, Santa Barbara, and Whistler, creating special moments for guests from all over the world. She possesses the attention to detail to execute events as grand as Cirque du Soleil-themed dinners on the Las Vegas Strip, the warmth to create small family-only weddings in the Sierra Nevadas, and the professional experience to seamlessly oversee classic weddings of all sizes. Whether your event is for 15 or 150 people, Maritza’s obsessive level of organization paired with her calm demeanor and sense of reliability will bring your vision to life.
Fun fact: Maritza once spent a whole semester learning about wine and food in Chambéry, an alpine town in the south of France.
Judy Koponen, Lead Creative Designer
A Sacramento-girl to the core, Judy received a degree in Business and Communications from Sacramento State University (Stingers Up). Throughout her time at Sac State, she quickly became involved in her school’s business chapter, Delta Sigma Pi, allowing her to combine her naturally creative eye with her passion for event design on countless occasions. Judy’s love for adventure led her to Barcelona, Spain, where she completed a highly selective internship focused on orchestrating numerous events ranging from wine tastings, small concerts, and interactive community events. Although passionate about travel and exploration, Sacramento has always held a special place in her heart. Judy is constantly inspired by the many local treasures of Sacramento, whether it be by visiting her neighborhood coffee shop, Old Soul at The Weatherstone, getting a bite at one of midtown’s classic restaurants, such as Tapa The World, or strolling around the local farmers markets/pop up shops around town. With Judy on your design team, you can expect a custom tailored event that speaks to what would give you joy every time.
Fun fact: While Judy has always been a dog lover, her dream has always been to call a little French Bulldog her own. Almost one year ago, Yoshi zoomied into her life, making her dream a reality!
Lili Koponen, Lead Content Manager
After pursuing a degree in Political Science at UCLA, Lili fell in love with the City of Angels. Over time, her passion for all things tech grew, landing her an amazing role at the Getty Museum helping people in the cultural heritage space feel more comfortable with technology. Lili loves to explore new social media platforms and trends, has an eye for all things grammar, and fills the gaps in her schedule creating fun concept dance videos. Lili brings a strong technical background, a love for spreading knowledge, and a congenial personality to Koponen Events. In an ever-changing tech world, you can rest assured that she will keep you up-to-date on the latest and greatest. Whether it be building your website or helping virtualize your celebration, Lili can help include even your most distant guests on your special day.
Fun fact: Lili loves exploring and has visited 13 countries so far. One of her favorite experiences abroad has been walking around Park Güell in Barcelona, admiring Gaudi’s handiwork.