Our Team
The Occasio team was carefully assembled to include key stylists with over 20 years of combined experience in corporate event production, wedding planning, and special event styling. Occasio understands that careful planning and detailed execution is required to make each event a memorable occasion. With Occasio, there are no afterthoughts. We handle all aspects of an event from valet parking to live entertainment, so that our clients can enjoy their event. The Occasio team promises to make your event exquisite. Let the journey begin.
Aurora Perez Smith
Aurora founded Occasio Productions after years of training under some of the finest event planners in the industry. She began her career in New York City, working in corporate sales at the Grand Hyatt. Realizing her passion for the culinary arts and event management, she became part of the management team at the legendary P.J. Clark’s, and later opened the restaurant’s Hudson River location. After working in New York, Aurora returned to Houston, Texas and opened The Oceanaire Seafood Room, Cullen’s Upscale American Grille, Bistro Moderne, and Mo’s…A Place for Steaks, as the Director of Sales and Events.
Aurora has extensive experience planning and managing large-scale events—catering to clients hosting events exceeding one thousand attendees. She has been retained by clients, which include: ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Memorial Hermann Hospital, NASA, ExxonMobil Corporation, Transocean, Chevron, BP, Turner Industries, HCA Healthcare, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Valero, United Space Alliance, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, The Houston Astros, Apache Corporation, Porsche, Preferred Hotel Group, Continental Airlines, The Doubletree Hotel, The JW Marriot Hotel, Westin Hotels, Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau, The Health Museum, Texas Monthly, Vinson & Elkins LLP, Citigroup, Shell Oil Company, Marathon Oil, Amerex Energy Services, and Deloitte.
Aurora is well-versed in all aspects of event and wedding planning: elegant in-home dinners, galas, corporate retreats, open houses, destination weddings, and sleek ceremonies. She specializes in uniquely themed events, creating the perfect atmosphere and executing meticulously planned Occasions. Aurora’s love and passion for her craft is evident in her work.
MYRLA VANEGASMyrla Vanegas joined the Occasio team in early 2014. She brings incredible organizational skills and an impressive drive that helps her execute her events flawlessly. Myrla’s attention to detail, creative imagination, concept design and infectious passion have earned her a reputation for unparalleled excellence as an event planner. With over 7 years of experience in corporate events, social events and wedding planning, Myrla is a great asset to our team.
Photography: J. Cogliandro Photography