Today we’d like to introduce you to Manon Gaige.
Hi Manon, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I discovered my passion for events when I was 16 years old during an internship where I helped organize a sports competition. That experience was a real revelation for me. I loved the energy, the organization, and seeing everything come together. From that moment, I knew this was the field I wanted to pursue.
I decided to study event management so I could learn as much as possible about the industry. During my master’s degree, I had the opportunity to complete an internship in Mexico, where I discovered the world of wedding planning. It was my first real experience in that industry, and it confirmed that weddings were what I truly wanted to focus on.
After graduating, I worked in corporate roles in New York and later in Jacksonville. Those experiences taught me a lot and helped me understand the industry from different perspectives. But over time, I realized that I wanted to build something that truly reflected my vision and my approach to events.
That is how I created MA.GE Events, a wedding planning and design company where I get to do what I love every day.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has definitely not always been a smooth road. One of the biggest challenges was building the company from the ground up and making it known. When you start a business, you have to build your reputation, find your first clients, and prove yourself in a very competitive industry.
I also had to learn the American way of planning weddings, which is quite different from the French or European approach I was used to and from what I experienced in Mexico. Understanding those differences and adapting to the local wedding industry were important parts of my journey.
Like many entrepreneurs, there were moments of doubt, but I think the key is to stay consistent, keep learning, and not give up. Over time, the relationships you build and the experience you gain really start to pay off.
As you know, we’re big fans of MA.GE Events. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
MA.GE Events is a wedding planning and design company based in Jacksonville. I work closely with couples to help them plan and design weddings that feel true to them while keeping the planning process organized and enjoyable.
What I enjoy the most is combining logistics and creativity. Planning a wedding requires a lot of coordination and attention to detail, but it is also about creating an atmosphere and a moment people will remember.
Having experienced weddings in different countries has also influenced the way I approach my work. The American way of planning weddings is different from the French or European style I grew up around, and also different from what I experienced in Mexico. Those different perspectives naturally shape the way I think about events.
What I am most proud of with MA.GE Events is the relationships built along the way. Weddings are truly a team effort, and working with great couples and talented vendors is a big part of what makes each event special.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Starting a business in a new place has been a really rewarding experience. The wedding industry is very community driven, and I’ve been lucky to meet and work with many talented vendors and wonderful couples along the way.
Every wedding is different, which is what makes this work so special. I’m always excited to see how each couple brings their own story and personality into their celebration.
Pricing:
- Essential Planning starting at $1,700
- Partial Planning starting at $3,000
- Full Planning starting at $4,500
- Wedding Brainstorm starting at $150/session
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mage-events.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ma.ge_events/
