I love you not only for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you.
DESTINATION wedding planner
meet your
Xx, Marissa

If you haven’t caught on yet, I’m a travel-obsessed, coffee-loving planner who thrives on creating unforgettable experiences.

Originally born and raised in San Jose, CA, I spent over 20 years in the Bay Area before deciding it would be a great idea to move to wine country—hello, Napa Valley! It’s one of my bad traits to never turn down a trip! Honestly, nothing excites me more than discovering new places—so you can count on me to travel anywhere to help plan your wedding!

Now that I’m living in Napa, many don’t know that my taste for wine has grown—not just because I love to drink it, but because I hold a certified sommelier certification! At 29, I’m living my best life with my amazing travel partner (and husband) and our two adorable pups, Dottie and Scout. In May 2023, I planned my own destination wedding in Santorini, Greece—spoiler alert: it was a dream come true!

Hometown Gatherings was created for couples who want an elevated experience without the fancy five-course meal and insane price tag. I started this wedding planning company for myself and for couples looking for an easygoing, real person to talk through ideas and keep expectations grounded. I specialize in crafting personalized destination wedding experiences that reflect your unique love story, whether it’s a beach getaway, a vineyard celebration, or an adventure in a different country.

I want my new friends (that’s you!) to feel completely at ease and beyond excited as you approach your big day. I’m here to guide you through the beautiful chaos of wedding planning, especially when it comes to the logistics of celebrating in a far-off place. Trust me, this is going to be your best adventure yet, and I can’t wait to be a part of your journey! With me by your side, you’ll feel calmer than ever—and that’s a promise!

hey hey!

I’m your Northern California-based wedding planner, and I’m always ready to catch a flight for love!

Let Hometown Gatherings bring your vision to life, so you can focus on what truly matters and celebrate anywhere in the world

FIG | Images from my past travels

lover of chocolate&Cookies

no. 6

MARRIED MAY 2023!!!

no. 5

mama of 2 doggos

no. 4

Iced americanos forever

no. 3

christmas is my holiday! 

no. 2

avid traveller

no. 1

the Need to Know Details

In 2023 I planned my very first destination wedding in Greece... & Guess what, it was my own!

Hometown Gatherings was created with the sole intent of helping those out of the box lovers, the risk takers and couples who thrive on authentically bringing their wildest and most daring wedding dreams to life. 

let's add your destination wedding here!

1st European wedding & adding yours here!

present

My first wedding season, as my own boss, was under my belt & I officially celebrated 1 year as a Biz owner in March of 2022! It wasn't easy but the rewards have been unlike anything I have ever experienced. This business has taken me all over California planning weddings & getting to known some amazing couples! 

1 YEAR IN BUSINESS
& BEComming A MRS

2022

I still remember the day I decided to make this life a reality. I was 30,000 ft above sea level (obviously traveling!) & headed out on my next adventure. It was on that airplane that I felt the overwhelming amount of confidence I needed to make my own dreams come true.
While doing what I love most the concept behind HOMETOWN GATHERINGS was created & a few short months later, the business was a done deal! 


Hometown gatherings comes to life

2021

During my 'covid vacation' I experienced A LOT of personal loss, and knew I had to reevaluate my life,  and more specifically, my career. I can remember sitting down making a list of MUST haves & items I wouldn't compromise on when moving forward in life. It sounded simple but I knew finding this 'magical' position would take time.

The Beginning of it all 

2020

a glimpse into

HOMETOWN GATHERINGS

journey

CALIFORNIA + DESTINATION WEDDING PLANNING SERVICES

HOMETOWN GATHERINGS

Hometown Gatherings plans weddings in Northern California, Napa, Sonoma, and worldwide—no location is ever too far

Ready to say yes to personalized, authentic wedding adventures?

CLICK HERE