Elevated Events

Four of Nashville’s elite event planners discuss planning the perfect party

For centuries, events have served as a way for individuals to connect. We see that all around us; through life-changing events and causes, we seem to have a limitless need to gather. From Cleopatra’s lavish events to the fêtes of the French monarchy to modern day parties, we have a natural propensity to be together. For the past 30 years, Nfocus has been witness to the countless events hosted throughout the city; today, we shine a light on the magicians behind the curtains, those who make each gathering a seamless production.

BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERIC ENGLAND

Career Path

I started event planning 32 years ago when Merchants Restaurant opened on lower Broadway; I persuaded groups to hold events downtown and designed their parties. When I began my business seven years later, I took my Rolodex and contacted previous clients for personal and corporate parties.

Humble Beginnings

It was a challenge to plan events in the beginning of my career. There was only one rental company, and they had a limited inventory. Designing parties consisted of thinking of outside-of-the-box ways to use the same few items and make them look different.

JOB PERKS

I planned Carrie Underwood’s wedding and got to meet my Jersey Girl crush: Jon Bon Jovi.

JOB CHALLENGES

Rapidly changing pricing in the event world is the biggest challenge today. Business owners in our industry must pay top dollar to retain talented, caring employees, and food prices have yet to stabilize.

Biggest Influence

Mike Whitler of Branches Design and florist Joe Smith of Ilex were my biggest influences in design, scaling and creativity. Plus, they were two of the most amazing, fun people I have been fortunate enough to know.

Best Advice

Learn from the best venue or planner you can partner with and never stop learning. The event industry is constantly evolving, so surround yourself with talented vendors and an invaluable team — thank you to my invaluable team, Debbie Lundy.

GET INSPIRED

My clients inspire me: They usually have a vision that they need help to execute, and my job is to collaborate in bringing their dream event or corporate mission to life.

In Another Life

I would be a meteorologist or weather broadcaster. As an event planner, I keep a constant eye on the weather.

In The Works

I am planning many more private parties and weddings than before COVID. People — now more than ever — really want to celebrate life and make memories.

Jayne Bubis

Owner of Jayne Bubis Events

Born and raised in New Jersey, Jayne attended Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois, then moved to Nashville. While working as a waitress at Shenanigans, she met and married Nashville native Martin Bubis. After years of working as an event planner at a downtown restaurant, Jayne struck out on her own and created Jayne Bubis Events. For 32 years, she has overseen countless luxurious weddings and special occasions for her clients.