Awards & Recognitions
Our Mission
To create elevated, unexpected events for desert-loving couples that are thoughtfully planned, brilliantly designed, and that embrace the natural beauty of the Southwest.
We can’t wait to work with you!
MEET THE TEAM
MEET THE TEAM
MEET THE TEAM MEET THE TEAM
Team photos courtesy of Schyler Anderson Photography
Chelsea GAYTAN
Founder
I’m a native Arizonian who is OBSESSED with love. Catch me crying at movies, Reels about dogs, and 1,000% at the Father/Daughter dance. My superpowers? Magnetic energy (hello, Manifesting Generator!), a laser focus on details, a knack for top-notch customer service, and a passion for turning authentic love stories into unforgettable events.
I started Black Tie Optional because I wanted to serve other desert-obsessed nearlyweds who were looking for a wedding experience unlike anything they’d ever seen before. Like you, I wanted my own wedding to be off-the-beaten-path. I dreamed of something that embraced Arizona’s natural beauty and really showed that off to our guests. BTO was born out of that passion.
You being able to truly enjoy the wedding planning process and soak in every moment of your big day is of the utmost importance to my team and I. We will move mountains to ensure that your dream day goes off without a hitch!
Cameron Peraza
Event Manager
I’m a University of Arizona alum, and received my Bachelor of Science in Physiology. My studies taught me to be extremely detail-oriented and organized, and I also developed a passion for event planning at a young age - from family events to graduation parties to now weddings, I’m always the one taking vigorous notes on my iPad (and yes, color-coding them of course) so I never miss a beat. As the second oldest of 5 siblings and 13 grandchildren, I am an expert at rounding everyone up and getting things done. I adore traveling the world, but nothing beats this beautiful state where you can find any climate you can dream of! I’ll be sure to work endlessly to make sure your day is perfect while adding a sense of comfort and sentiment to your dream wedding!
Jenny weber
Event Manager
With a background in coordinating large events and retreats, I have a knack for handling the nitty-gritty details and being deeply focused on creating an unforgettable experience. I'm all about bringing your vision to life in an approachable, exciting, and FUN way! I love being a part of your love story and getting to be the creative visionary and executor behind your big day. My ultimate goal is to make wedding planning stress free so you can truly enjoy the entire journey! I can't wait to make magic happen for you!
Sarah Cadet
Event Assistant
One of the most memorable moments from my wedding was looking out at our friends and family eating dinner during the reception and seeing everyone I love together, in one place. This is the kind of moment I live for and the kind that has kept my passion for event planning high. Creating and fostering an environment that helps gather and connect people together is one of my favorite things! Having experience planning events for 25-250 people, I can take your day-of vision, no matter how big or small, and help execute it. I, along with the Black Tie Optional team, will do everything we can to make sure your special day is warm, welcoming yet intimate, and as stress-free as possible. Planning a wedding is a unique time where you get to create and celebrate - we can help you!
Ali Malkoff
Event Assistant
As a nursing student I learned to be ready for anything - and I bring that energy and attention to detail into every event I work! My favorite part of a wedding day is when the couple sees their transformed space for the first time - the joy and excitement in their eyes is the most rewarding sight to witness! Whether I’m staging your decor, bringing you your specialty cocktail, or helping to bustle your dress, you can rest assured that no stone will go unturned to make sure that your wedding day is a dream come true!