We recently connected with Maryjane Perez Fitzgerald and have shared our conversation below.

MaryJane, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So, let’s start with trends – what are some of the largest or more impactful trends you are seeing in the industry?

One of the most notable trends I’ve been seeing in the wedding industry is the use of drapery in wedding decor. A few years ago, couples were more focused on minimalistic, open spaces, or large farm spaces, but now, there’s a strong shift toward creating rich, intimate environments using fabric. I had the privilege of working on a wedding earlier this year where the bride had a vision of transforming the venue into an ethereal wonderland using soft, billowing drapery. She wanted the ceremony space to feel like a private sanctuary, so we hung layers of delicate white fabric around the altar area, creating an almost dreamlike effect. The results were stunning, with guests remarking that the soft, flowing fabric created an atmosphere of romance and calm, pulling them into the moment. This was a perfect example of how drapery can elevate a wedding by adding both texture and softness to a space.

However, as beautiful as this trend is, there are some concerns. Drapery is very much dependent on the environment. If your wedding is outdoors, one challenge is dealing with the wind. I’ve seen situations where drapery, meant to create a soft, romantic atmosphere instead starts flapping uncontrollably in the breeze, creating a far less serene effect. It’s crucial to consider the weather, as wind can easily cause fabric to move in ways that were not intended. We once had a wedding where the drapery, meant to hang delicately along the perimeter of a tent, started billowing in the wind, leading to an impromptu adjustment session to secure the fabric. This highlighted the importance of anticipating weather conditions and having a backup plan. Additionally, drapery can be expensive, and careful planning is necessary to ensure it enhances rather than overwhelms the space. Too much fabric or poorly hung drapery can look cluttered, and the logistics of installing it can add extra complexity to the day.

A trend that’s also gaining significant traction is the use of linen—lots of it. The rise in luxurious, textured linens is truly defining wedding decor this season. From velvet tablecloths to intricate lace overlays and satin napkins, linens are becoming more than just a functional necessity; they’re a statement piece. One wedding I worked on recently showcased this trend in full force. The bride wanted every table to feel like an art installation, so we incorporated layered linen textures in soft neutral tones, mixing matte and shiny fabrics for added depth. The combination of linens, paired with delicate drapery, created a sense of opulence that was both modern and romantic. Guests were captivated by how the linens transformed the space, making the reception feel intimate and luxurious.

While this trend offers incredible opportunities to personalize and elevate wedding design, there are some concerns. The sheer variety of linens available can sometimes be overwhelming for couples, and choosing the wrong texture or pattern can detract from the overall aesthetic. The key is knowing how to balance different fabrics and colors so they complement each other without competing for attention. Additionally, linens can be expensive, especially when factoring in high-quality materials and custom designs. Careful budgeting is necessary to avoid overspending. But when done right, linens can completely transform the ambiance of a wedding, creating a sophisticated and tailored feel.

Another trend gaining momentum is the resurgence of black and white themes, often with bold patterns like checkerboard. This classic color scheme is being infused with a contemporary twist—think black-and-white checkerboard floors and decor, alongside modern touches like sleek black velvet tablecloths or geometric accents. I worked on a wedding where the couple embraced this bold contrast with a checkerboard dance floor that stole the show. It wasn’t just a floor; it became a design statement that added energy and sophistication to the space. The dance floor made the whole space come alive. It was a clear example of how embracing strong, bold patterns can bring life and movement to a traditional theme.

While this trend offers incredible opportunity for creating bold statements and personalized designs, there are also concerns. A checkerboard pattern, for example, can be tricky to incorporate without overpowering the space. Too much pattern can overwhelm a venue, so it’s essential to carefully balance it with other elements like linens or lighting. There’s also a risk of it feeling too dated or retro if it’s not done in a modern way, so keeping the design fresh and current is key.

Finally, candlelight has been making a strong comeback. This isn’t just about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere—candlelight has a transformative power in terms of mood. I worked on a wedding in the fall where the couple chose to illuminate their venue entirely with candles, from floating candles in the centerpieces to chandeliers dripping with candles above the dance floor. As soon as the sun set, the entire room shifted. The soft glow gave the venue a magical, intimate feel that no other lighting could replicate. The couple’s goal was to create a “wow” factor without relying on harsh, artificial lighting, and they achieved it effortlessly through candlelight.

However, this trend, while beautiful, brings some practical concerns. The safety of candles needs to be prioritized, especially in large events where the risk of fire is higher. Additionally, candles require more effort to maintain throughout the evening, as they need to be monitored and replaced if they burn out. But the payoff in terms of creating a romantic, atmospheric setting is undeniable.

These trends—drapery, luxurious linens, black-and-white themes with checkerboard, and candlelight—are all reflective of a broader desire in the wedding industry: creating intimate, personalized experiences that feel both timeless and fresh. They allow couples to infuse their personalities into their weddings, while also embracing the elegance and beauty of classic design elements. As with all trends, there are concerns to manage, but the opportunities for creative expression and creating a memorable experience for guests are endless.

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

Thank you for the opportunity to share my story with your readers. My name is MaryJane, and I am the founder of MJS Weddings and Events, named after my Grandmother Marie June Sweeney. Our company specializes in creating unforgettable weddings and events that reflect each couple’s unique vision, style, and personality. We focus on delivering high-end, customized planning and design services, ensuring that every detail is meticulously handled and the end result exceeds expectations.

I got into the wedding and event planning industry out of a deep passion for design, creativity, and bringing people’s dreams to life. Growing up, I always found myself planning and organizing family events, which sparked my love for creating memorable moments. After working in various creative industries and gaining experience in event production, I decided to turn my passion into a career. What started as a small side hustle soon grew into a thriving business as I realized how much joy I found in helping couples create the most important day of their lives.

At MJS Weddings and Events, we offer a wide range of services, including full-service wedding planning, day-of coordination, and event design. Our team works with clients from the very beginning of their wedding or event planning journey, offering everything from venue selection and vendor coordination to designing and executing unique decor elements. We help couples bring their vision to life with personalized touches and thoughtful details that make their wedding day truly one-of-a-kind. From selecting linens and drapery to designing custom floral arrangements and handling logistics, we ensure that every aspect of the wedding day runs seamlessly.

What sets us apart from others in the industry is our commitment to creating a highly personalized experience. We believe every couple deserves a wedding that reflects who they are, so we take the time to truly get to know our clients, understand their vision, and tailor our services to meet their specific needs. Our expertise in design, attention to detail, and ability to stay calm under pressure means our clients can trust us to handle every aspect of their wedding day with care and precision. With a fully trained staff margin we leave no room for error.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the lasting relationships we build with our clients. Many of them come to us not just for a wedding, but for an experience—something that is uniquely theirs. The satisfaction and gratitude from couples when they see their vision come to life is incredibly rewarding. We are also proud of our team and the reputation we’ve built for delivering top-notch service, no matter how big or small the event may be.

For potential clients, fans, and followers, I want you to know that MJS Weddings and Events is not just about executing an event; it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime. Our CORE 4 is PURE! With our Precision Planning, Unification, Great Relationships and Endurance for Everlasting Love we are the key that unlocks the unfolding of your entire events door and decor. With peace of mind and MJS on your side, you can take pride in your stride. We focus on the details that matter most to you, so you can enjoy the process and be present on your special day. Our goal is always to make your wedding or event seamless, stress-free, and unforgettable, and we do it with heart and passion.

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, we would love to be a part of your journey. Please visit our Instagram @mjsweddingsandevents or visit us on our website at www.mjsweddingsandevents.com to learn more about our services, view our portfolio, and see how we can make your event truly remarkable.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative is the ability to bring a vision to life and witness the emotional impact it has on people. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about taking a couple’s or client’s idea—sometimes a rough concept or a dream they’ve been imagining for years—and transforming it into something tangible and meaningful. The look on their faces when they see the final result, whether it’s a beautifully designed wedding or a perfectly executed event, is indescribable. It’s that moment of connection where creativity and emotion meet, and the joy and memories we help create will stay with them forever.

As a creative, I’m constantly inspired by the people I work with, the stories they tell, and the uniqueness of their personal styles. No two weddings or events are ever the same, which means every project is a new challenge, an opportunity to push boundaries, and a chance to learn and grow. I also find immense satisfaction in the process—the way each detail, whether it’s a carefully chosen linen, a custom-designed table setting, or a perfectly placed flower arrangement, all comes together to create a seamless, beautiful experience.

At the core, being an artist or creative means having the privilege of making people feel something special. That feeling of connection, beauty, and joy that comes from experiencing an event or artwork that has been thoughtfully and intentionally crafted—that is the essence of what drives me every day. It’s that sense of fulfillment and the positive impact on others that makes being an artist so incredibly rewarding.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

A key lesson I had to unlearn was the expectation that my staff would instinctively understand the level of dedication and attention to detail that I bring to every wedding and event. Early on in my business, I assumed that because I was deeply passionate about the work, others would naturally share that same level of commitment. I hired people with enthusiasm, but without always considering that event planning is much more than just attending a wedding or event.

I quickly realized that many of my staff members viewed the role more like a temporary gig or an opportunity to simply “attend” an event, unaware of the immense responsibility and behind-the-scenes work that goes into pulling off a successful wedding. The coordination, logistics, managing vendors, troubleshooting last-minute issues, and ensuring everything runs smoothly—that’s the true nature of the job. It’s not about just showing up and having fun; it’s about relentless attention to detail, problem-solving, and making sure every guest and client experience is flawless.

Additionally, I had to unlearn the belief that anyone could just step into my shoes and do the work as I would. As much as I’d like to clone myself, the reality is, no one will ever be me. I have years of experience, a deep understanding of the stress and satisfaction involved, and an intrinsic passion that’s unique to me. This became even more apparent when I realized I needed to invest more in training my staff—teaching them not just the “how” of event planning, but also the “why” behind each decision, every action, and every interaction.

The backstory behind this lesson came from a particularly challenging event early on, where I assumed that my team would be ready for the scope of the job, and they weren’t. I was spread thin, and there were moments where I felt completely alone, trying to pick up the slack for the gaps in understanding and readiness. After that event, I realized that I couldn’t expect my team to operate at my level of understanding without proper training, clear expectations, and consistent communication about what the role truly entails. It was a hard lesson, but one that allowed me to grow as a leader and build a stronger, more reliable team over time.

Now, I make sure that every team member is thoroughly trained and understands the importance of the work we do. I also acknowledge that each person brings their own unique strengths, but that no one can replicate the passion and personal touch that I provide. I’ve learned to lean into this fact and focus on how I can foster a team culture of dedication, teamwork, and growth—understanding that with the right training and leadership, they can deliver exceptional results even if they’re not me.

Another important lesson I’ve learned along the way is the immense value of diversity within our team. Having a diverse group of team members has allowed us to serve a wider range of clients and take on more varied events. Our team’s diversity—whether it’s cultural, creative, or based on different personal experiences—enriches the work we do and enhances our ability to cater to different kinds of weddings and events. With a broader spectrum of perspectives and backgrounds, we’re able to better understand and connect with a wider variety of clientele, which has opened doors for us to work on different styles and types of celebrations.

A more diverse team also helps us think outside the box, bring fresh ideas to the table, and adapt more easily to unique client requests. This has made our business more dynamic, and it’s something I’m incredibly proud of. It allows us to build stronger relationships with clients and provide them with a truly tailored experience.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mjsweddingsandevents.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mjsweddingsandevents/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088868053091
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjsweddings/
• Twitter: https://x.com/mjsweddingsllc
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MJSWEDDINGSANDEVENTS
• Yelp: https://biz.yelp.com/biz_info/ZSgRLh_UQGbMzIlKzG59Zw
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/mjsweddingsandevents/
  

  @mjsweddingsandevents

Image Credits

Jorge Lopez (J&R Studios)
Yan Schwartzman (Photography)
Lex Christie Photography
Artemis Photo NJ