Business Details
24 Years
experience
Stress-Free Event Planning & Management in San Jose
California Special Occasions has been a trusted leader in event planning and management since 2002, serving corporate clients, non-profits, and individuals across the San Jose area and Silicon Valley. Our team combines decades of industry experience with a structured, client-centric approach to deliver stress-free, memorable events. We specialize in crafting tailored experiences for corporate functions, fundraising galas, milestone celebrations, and more, using detailed timelines, budgets, and planning checklists to ensure every detail is perfected. Our founder, Maxine Goulding, brings over 20 years of expertise as a Certified Event Planner and Certified Diversity Meeting Professional, supported by a team with deep local market knowledge and a proven track record of repeat client satisfaction.We prioritize transparency, collaboration, and innovation, maintaining strong vendor relationships to secure the best resources for every event. From initial consultation to post-event follow-up, our nine-step process guarantees seamless execution, allowing clients to focus on enjoying their event while we handle logistics. Recognized with awards such as the National Association of Women Business Owners' Woman Business of the Year, we are committed to excellence, community engagement, and creating experiences that exceed expectations.
Services
Corporate Event Planning
Non-Profit Event Management
Special Occasion Coordination
Vendor Management
Event Design
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in event planning.
- Our team consists of certified experts with extensive experience.
- We provide 24/7 personalized customer support.
- We operate with full transparency and no hidden fees.
- Our team deeply understands the local market needs in San Jose.
Associations and certifications
- International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals
- NxLeveL Solutions, Inc.
- Association of Bridal Consultants
- San Jose State University Professional Development Center
- Dale Carnegie Institute
What people say
Life-saver
Super creative
No hidden fees
On time
Memorable events
Services
Corporate Event Planning
We specialize in managing corporate events for up to 800 attendees, including seminars, award dinners, trade shows, and meetings. Our process ensures alignment with client objectives, seamless vendor coordination, and budget management. Clients benefit from our industry expertise and local market knowledge to create impactful, professional experiences.
Non-Profit Fundraising Events
Our team designs unique fundraising experiences that encourage donor engagement and repeat attendance. We focus on storytelling, beneficiary interaction, and strategic budgeting to maximize donations. Non-profits trust us to create events that highlight their mission while ensuring logistical excellence and attendee satisfaction.
Special Occasion Coordination
From milestone birthdays to bar/bat mitzvahs, we transform personal celebrations into unforgettable events. Our timelines, checklists, and vendor networks ensure stress-free execution. Clients appreciate our attention to detail, creative design, and ability to adapt to unique themes and guest needs.
Vendor Management
We connect clients with trusted vendors for venues, catering, florals, AV, and more. Our relationships ensure quality service and competitive pricing. Clients benefit from streamlined communication, reduced planning stress, and reliable execution through our vetted network of professionals.
Event Design & Logistics
Our design and logistics services include site selection, on-site support, and contingency planning. We create cohesive themes and manage day-of details to ensure flawless delivery. Clients rely on our creativity, problem-solving skills, and proactive approach to handle unexpected challenges seamlessly.
People
Maxine Goulding
Owner
Maxine founded California Special Occasions in 2003 after a career at Applied Materials. A Certified Event Planner and Certified Diversity Meeting Professional, she has led NAWBO-SV and the Greater San Jose Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Her expertise spans corporate, non-profit, and social events.
Danette Green
Event Planner
Danette brings over 20 years of experience creating memorable events for Silicon Valley clients. Her strengths include trend forecasting, budget management, and attention to detail. She specializes in transforming intimate gatherings and large-scale events into unique, client-focused experiences.
Questions
What types of events do you plan?
We specialize in corporate events, non-profit fundraisers, and special occasions like milestone birthdays, weddings, and holiday parties.
Do you work with clients outside San Jose?
Yes, we serve clients throughout Silicon Valley and beyond, leveraging our vendor network to ensure quality service anywhere.
How do you handle unexpected issues during events?
Our proactive planning and contingency strategies ensure quick resolution of any issues, minimizing disruption to your event.
Can you accommodate tight budgets?
We tailor services to fit your budget while maintaining quality, using our vendor relationships to secure cost-effective solutions.
What sets you apart from other planners?
Our structured nine-step process, certified expertise, and focus on client collaboration ensure personalized, stress-free event execution.
