Today we’d like to introduce you to Claire Lopez.
Hi Claire, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My story really begins long before Bella Poggio Events existed—back when I was a little girl watching my grandmother host the most beautiful family gatherings. She had a gift for making people feel welcomed, cared for, and celebrated, and I didn’t realize it then, but she was planting the first seeds of what would one day become my career.
Fast-forward to adulthood, and that love for creating meaningful moments had never left me. For years I planned events for friends, family, and community groups simply because it brought me joy. But after coordinating more and more weddings—and realizing how naturally it came to me—I finally decided to turn that passion into something real. That’s when Bella Poggio Events was born, named as a nod to my Italian roots and the warmth, romance, and hospitality that inspire my work.
The journey wasn’t linear. I have dyslexia, and school was incredibly hard for me growing up, so building a business meant pushing past fear, learning in my own way, and proving to myself that I could create a career fueled by creativity, organization, and heart. Event planning became an outlet where my strengths could shine—visual thinking, problem-solving, and intuitive attention to detail.
I started small, taking on any event I could while juggling motherhood and the everyday chaos of life. Every wedding taught me something new. Every couple reminded me why this work matters. As I continued growing, building my processes, and becoming more confident in my craft, I slowly began getting repeat inquiries and referrals from people who had seen my work firsthand—something that has meant the world to me.
I get to serve wonderful couples, build meaningful relationships in the industry, and create experiences that feel intentional, warm, and deeply personal. It’s been a journey full of challenges, growth, and beautiful moments—and I wouldn’t change a thing.
Bella Poggio Events isn’t just a business to me. It’s the result of a lifetime of inspiration, resilience, and a genuine love for celebrating people’s most meaningful moments.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a perfectly smooth road, but the challenges have shaped me.
Starting a business while balancing motherhood and multiple responsibilities was tough, and as someone with dyslexia, certain parts of entrepreneurship—like paperwork, contracts, and systems—required extra effort. Confidence was another hurdle; entering an industry full of experienced planners felt intimidating at first. But each challenge pushed me to grow. I became more resourceful, more intentional, and more confident in my abilities. Every event, every kind review, and every small win helped me build Bella Poggio Events into something I’m truly proud of.
As you know, we’re big fans of Bella Poggio Events. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Bella Poggio Events is a wedding and event planning company rooted in intentional design, warm hospitality, and a deeply personalized planning experience. I serve Memphis, the Southeast, and destination locations, blending my Italian heritage and Southern roots into celebrations that feel elegant, heartfelt, and thoughtfully curated.
I specialize in wedding coordination, partial planning, and full planning—meeting couples wherever they are in their planning journey. What I’m known for is my attention to detail and my calm, organized approach on event days. My clients trust me to bring order to the chaos, think ahead for them, and create a wedding day where they can be fully present and enjoy the moments that matter.
What sets Bella Poggio apart is the level of intentionality behind every decision. I don’t do “copy and paste” weddings. I take the time to understand each couple’s personality, vision, values, culture, and priorities so their day feels like a true reflection of who they are—not something pulled from a template or Pinterest board.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the heart behind Bella Poggio. The name, meaning “beautiful hillside,” nods to my family roots and the romantic, inviting aesthetic at the core of everything I do. My brand blends Italian-inspired elegance with Southern warmth, creating an experience that feels elevated yet approachable.
For readers, I want them to know this: Bella Poggio Events is for couples who value meaningful moments, thoughtful design, and a planning experience grounded in trust. Whether they need someone to take over in the final stretch or a partner to guide them from day one, my goal is always the same—to create a wedding that feels effortless, beautifully personal, and deeply memorable.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I absolutely love Memphis. I was born and raised here, and even though I left for college in Kentucky and spent time living in Nashville afterward, Memphis has always been home. I moved back after my wedding in 2020 because there’s something about this city—its warmth, its culture, and its sense of community—that you just can’t find anywhere else. I love the blend of Southern hospitality, creativity, and grit. There’s a heartbeat to Memphis that feels genuine and alive, and the people here truly care about one another.
What I like least? Probably the misconceptions people have about Memphis. Those who don’t know the city often overlook its beauty, history, and resilience. Memphis is full of talent, artistry, and incredible small businesses, and I wish more people could see firsthand the magic that locals experience every day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bellapoggioevents.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellapoggioevents
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bellapoggioevents
