We were lucky to catch up with Claire Audrey recently and have shared our conversation below.

Claire Audrey, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Going back to the beginning – how did you come up with the idea in the first place?

The Story Behind Maison de C.A.

Entrepreneurship has always been in my blood. Growing up, I watched both of my parents build and sustain successful businesses, instilling in me the belief that with passion, dedication, and strategy, anything was possible. From a young age, I knew I wanted to forge my own path—one that allowed me to create, connect, and leave an impact. However, the question was: In what industry? In what capacity?

My journey into the world of events was anything but accidental. My first role in the industry was as a Sales & Events Coordinator for Hyatt Regency Greenwich, where I developed a strong foundation in event logistics, client relations, and hospitality sales. When the world came to a standstill due to COVID-19, I, like many others in the industry, faced uncertainty. However, as soon as the industry reopened, I picked up where I left off—this time as an Event Coordinator at Cipriani Wall Street, fully immersing myself in the fast-paced world of luxury events. From there, I pushed myself to explore every facet of the industry, serving as a Banquet Manager for the iconic Rainbow Room, a Senior Event Producer at ONTHEMARC Events, and freelancing under top-tier planners. Each experience deepened my knowledge, refined my skills, and reinforced my passion. I intentionally sought roles that challenged me, immersing myself in operations, logistics, design, and client relations to ensure I became a well-rounded professional, fully equipped to build something of my own.

That “something” became Maison de C.A.—a name that holds deep meaning. Translating to “House of C.A.,” it represents The Home of Expert Planning, Innovative Design, and Mindful Production. This philosophy is the backbone of the brand—every service, interaction, and detail is crafted with intentionality. Every page, post, comment, and event is infused with a purpose-driven approach that prioritizes excellence, creativity, and connection.

The name also pays homage to my European roots. My mother, a first-generation immigrant from Belgium, placed great importance on culture and heritage, enrolling me in the French American School of New York during my early childhood. Though my fluency in the language faded over time, I’ve recently begun lessons again—both to honor my family’s legacy and to prepare for the future expansion of my brand into international markets.

But Maison de C.A. is more than just a business. It’s a home—a place where creativity thrives, where collaboration is encouraged, and where a strong community is built. I envision it as a hub that brings together clients, planners, designers, producers, vendors, and partners—a network of industry powerhouses, all working together to craft exceptional experiences. I have always loved connecting with people, and my years in hospitality made me realize how crucial genuine relationships are in this field. Not everyone is meant for this industry, and not every person I meet is the right fit for me—and that’s okay. What matters most is finding the right people, building meaningful connections, and fostering an environment where creativity and excellence flourish.

Maison de C.A. is currently established in Greenwich, CT, serving the luxury markets of Fairfield County while expanding into New York City and beyond. As a new business, I knew I needed to be strategic about how I positioned our offerings. While I have the expertise and experience to plan large-scale productions, I also understand that as an emerging brand, I must build visibility and trust before promoting events of that scale. It took time to determine the best course of action for establishing Maison de C.A. in the market, and ultimately, I refined our services to focus on what is most impactful right now:

• Full Planning & Design – For those seeking a seamless, high-touch experience where we handle every detail from concept to execution.
• Pop-Up Parties – Our primary focus at this stage, allowing us to create beautifully curated, intimate experiences that showcase our expertise while growing our presence.
• The Maison Society (Membership) – Currently in development for Greenwich, CT residents, this exclusive membership will offer luxury holiday décor services, bespoke event styling, and special concierge experiences for clients who want their homes to reflect effortless elegance year-round.

As the brand continues to grow, I plan to extend our reach into destination events, luxury travel, and lifestyle experiences, creating a seamless blend of elevated event planning and curated travel experiences. Our motto, “Life is an event, let’s make it memorable,” embodies this vision—celebrating life’s moments, big and small, through immersive, thoughtfully designed experiences.

Perhaps the most poetic part of my journey is that this brand, this “home,” was built from my actual childhood home. It’s a full-circle moment—a testament to my entrepreneurial spirit, my years of dedication, and the belief that passion, when nurtured with intention and expertise, has the power to transform dreams into reality.

Maison de C.A. is not just about planning events; it’s about crafting experiences, building relationships, and creating something that will leave a lasting impact. And that’s how I knew this was a worthwhile endeavor—because it’s not just a business. It’s a legacy in the making.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Meet the Founder Behind Maison de C.A.

For those who may not have come across me before, my name is Claire Audrey, and I am the creative force behind Maison de C.A., a luxury event management company based in Greenwich, CT. My journey into the events industry has been both intentional and deeply rooted in passion, experience, and a desire to create unforgettable moments.

How I Got Into the Industry:

I was drawn to the world of events long before I ever worked in the industry. From a young age, I had an innate love for hospitality, celebrations, and the intricacies of bringing people together. Entrepreneurship also runs in my family—both of my parents are successful business owners—so it was only natural that I would one day build something of my own.

My professional journey in events began at the Hyatt Regency Greenwich, where I worked as a Sales & Events Coordinator, gaining valuable experience in event logistics, hospitality sales, and client relations. When the world shut down during COVID-19, I, like many others in the industry, faced an unexpected pause. But as soon as the industry reopened, I picked up my career with Cipriani, working as an Event Coordinator in one of the most fast-paced and luxurious event spaces in New York City. From there, I took on roles that pushed me to explore every facet of the industry, working as a Banquet Manager at the iconic Rainbow Room, a Senior Event Producer at ONTHEMARC Events, and freelancing under esteemed planners. Each of these experiences allowed me to master different aspects of event production—design, logistics, operations, sales, and client experience—ultimately shaping me into a well-rounded expert in my field.

It was through these experiences that I realized I was ready to create something of my own—a brand that not only reflected my expertise but also my values, vision, and personal touch.

What Maison de C.A. Offers:

At Maison de C.A., we specialize in curating elevated, intentional, and immersive experiences through a range of luxury event services:
• Full Planning & Design – A seamless, high-touch service for clients who want expert guidance and execution from start to finish.
• Pop-Up Parties – Intimate, beautifully curated experiences that bring luxury and creativity to life on a smaller, more personal scale.
• The Maison Society Membership – In development for Greenwich, CT residents, this exclusive membership will offer luxury holiday décor services, bespoke event styling, and special concierge experiences designed to bring effortless elegance into clients’ homes year-round.

We believe in thoughtful execution, artistic design, and a client experience rooted in ease and trust. Every service we offer is crafted with intentionality—ensuring that our clients feel not only well taken care of but truly understood.

What Problems Do We Solve for Our Clients?

Planning a luxury event—whether an intimate gathering, a corporate launch, or a milestone celebration—can be overwhelming. Our clients often come to us feeling excited but unsure of where to start, how to bring their vision to life, or how to manage the intricate details that make an event exceptional.

Maison de C.A. provides more than just event planning; we provide a sense of relief and confidence. Our expertise ensures that every element is curated, executed, and seamlessly managed, allowing our clients to enjoy their event as a guest, rather than stress over the details.

With my background in both high-level production and hands-on execution, I understand what it takes to bring a vision to life. I know the right questions to ask, the details that often get overlooked, and how to create an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and effortless.

What Sets Maison de C.A. Apart?

There are many talented event planners and designers in the industry, but what sets Maison de C.A. apart is our deeply intentional approach to both design and experience.
1. A Home for Creativity & Community
The name Maison de C.A. translates to “House of C.A.,” which we refer to as The Home of Expert Planning, Innovative Design, and Mindful Production. This isn’t just a tagline—it’s a philosophy. Maison de C.A. is more than an event company; it’s a home for creative collaboration—a space where planners, designers, vendors, and clients come together to create something extraordinary.
2. Deeply Personalized & Thoughtful Design
We don’t just create beautiful events—we create meaningful experiences. Each event is crafted to reflect the personality, values, and aspirations of our clients. It’s not only about what’s trendy—it’s about what feels authentic to them.
3. A Global Perspective with European Influence
My Belgian heritage and early education at the French American School of New York have greatly influenced my design sensibilities and business ethos. Maison de C.A. carries an international touch—blending European sophistication with modern luxury—and we aspire to expand our footprint into destination events and luxury travel experiences in the future.
4. A Strategic Approach to Growth
As a new business, I’ve had to be strategic about how I position our brand. While I have the expertise to produce large-scale events, I also recognize the importance of building Maison de C.A.’s presence through pop-up parties, which allow us to showcase our creativity and craftsmanship in a way that is accessible, intimate, and high-impact.
5. A Passion for Continuous Growth & Innovation
I am naturally ambitious and always eager to learn new skills to expand my portfolio. Beyond event planning, I am currently immersing myself in photography, honing my ability to capture the beauty of a moment from behind the lens. Additionally, I plan to obtain my drone license, further expanding the creative ways Maison de C.A. can capture and present our work. This pursuit of knowledge and innovation is what keeps our brand evolving and ahead of the curve.

What Am I Most Proud Of?

What I’m most proud of is the fact that I built this brand from my childhood home—a full-circle moment that reflects my entrepreneurial roots, my years of dedication, and my belief that with the right vision, anything is possible.

I’m also incredibly proud of the relationships I’ve built along the way. This industry is about people—and knowing that I’ve been able to create something that brings people together, fosters connection, and celebrates life’s most important moments is truly fulfilling.

What Do I Want Potential Clients & Followers to Know?
• Maison de C.A. is not just about planning events—it’s about crafting experiences that feel deeply personal, intentional, and unforgettable.
• We are here to take the stress out of event planning so that our clients can fully enjoy their moments.
• We are growing, evolving, and excited to expand into destination events and luxury travel experiences in the future.
• If you’re looking for an event planner who values artistry, precision, and authenticity, Maison de C.A. is the place for you.

At the heart of it all, our brand philosophy is simple: “Life is an event, let’s make it memorable.”

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding part of being a creative is the freedom to explore, experiment, and continuously evolve within my craft. In the corporate world, especially in the events and hospitality industry, you’re often bound by structure—working within a predefined framework, adhering to strict timelines, and executing someone else’s vision. While that experience was invaluable in shaping my expertise, stepping into my own business has given me the creative autonomy to design, innovate, and build something that is uniquely mine.

Creative freedom means I’m not just planning events—I’m curating experiences, testing new ideas, and developing services that align with my artistic vision. It allows me to refine my brand identity, explore different facets of design, and even expand into new creative disciplines, such as photography and, soon, aerial visuals through drone technology. There’s a sense of limitless possibility that comes with running your own creative business, and that in itself is incredibly fulfilling.

Another aspect I deeply appreciate is the flexibility in schedule. After years of working in high-stress, fast-paced environments where 16-hour days and back-to-back productions were the norm, I now have the ability to pace my workflow with intention. I can design my days around my most productive hours, take time to cultivate my ideas, and prioritize deep, meaningful work rather than rushing through tasks in reactive mode.

However, while this flexibility is a gift, it also comes with its own challenges. The transition from a corporate, high-intensity setting to the slow-building process of entrepreneurship has been one of the most difficult adjustments. In the event industry, you’re used to seeing immediate results—tight deadlines force quick turnarounds, and the impact of your work is almost instant. But as a business owner, growth takes time. The momentum is different, and it requires patience, persistence, and an entirely different mindset.

Unlike the corporate world, where structure and systems are already in place, starting a business means building those systems from scratch—figuring out marketing strategies, brand positioning, networking, and client acquisition while still delivering exceptional service. The shift from constant action to strategic long-term planning has been an adjustment, and at times, it can feel frustratingly slow.

But despite the challenges, I wouldn’t trade this path for anything. The reward lies in knowing that every step forward is mine to shape—that the effort I put in now will create a sustainable, thriving brand in the long run. And most importantly, the freedom to create, connect, and bring people together through my work makes the journey worth every challenge.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

One of the biggest things non-creatives may struggle to understand about the journey of a creative entrepreneur is that creativity isn’t just a talent—it’s a discipline, a strategy, and a business. People often romanticize the idea of being a creative, assuming it’s all about inspiration and passion, but in reality, it’s about commitment, resilience, and a constant willingness to evolve.

What many don’t see is the invisible work—the long hours spent refining ideas, testing concepts, managing the business side of things, and pushing through self-doubt. Unlike a traditional career path, there’s no set roadmap for success, which means every decision is an experiment, and growth isn’t always linear.

Another thing that’s often misunderstood is the emotional and financial risk involved. Choosing to follow a creative career means stepping away from conventional stability, embracing uncertainty, and believing in your vision even when results take time. It’s a constant balance between artistry and business—between staying true to your creative integrity and ensuring sustainability.

That said, I also recognize that I have been incredibly fortunate to have a strong foundation of family and friends who support me unconditionally. Their encouragement has given me the strength to navigate this path, and I don’t take that for granted. I also had the privilege of moving back home before fully committing to this journey, which gave me the space and stability to take risks, refine my brand, and put my energy into building something meaningful. Not everyone has that opportunity, and I am deeply grateful for it.

Looking back, if there’s one thing I wish I had prioritized sooner, it would be my digital presence. Had I acknowledged just how demanding social media and digital marketing is in growing my brand, I would have been more intentional about creating content, capturing my work, and engaging with my audience much earlier. Throughout my years coordinating and producing high-end events, I was so focused on the execution—the logistics, the client experience, and the overall production—that I didn’t always take the time to document and showcase my expertise in a way that could translate into future opportunities.

Of course, it’s understandable why this was difficult to balance while actively working in the field. When you’re in the middle of executing large-scale productions, pausing to capture content often feels secondary to ensuring flawless execution. But in today’s world, a strong digital presence is just as important as the work itself. If I had allocated more time to brand development and social media before making the full leap into entrepreneurship, I know it would have provided a stronger foundation for visibility and client acquisition.

That said, I don’t dwell on past should-haves—I focus on what I can do now. I’ve taken this realization as an opportunity to fully embrace digital marketing, content creation, and brand storytelling as part of my business strategy moving forward. I hope that by sharing this insight, I can encourage others who are still working in their fields to start documenting their journey now—because the content you create today can open doors for you in the future.

At the end of the day, the world needs more people who are willing to think differently, create boldly, and bring something new to the table. If you feel that pull—whether in art, design, writing, photography, or anything else—honor it. The journey won’t be easy, but I promise you, it will be worth it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.maisondeca.co/
• Instagram: @maisondeclaireaudrey @claireaudreyyyy
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561474303229
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claireaudrey/

Image Credits

Meral Kat @meralkatphotography for the photos of myself!