Meet Cortney Buczkowski

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Cortney Buczkowski. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Cortney below.

Cortney, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

I literally have imposter syndrome right now—it’s nearly impossible not to. This industry is packed with talent, and social media only amplifies the comparison game. To navigate that, I try to limit my time scrolling and focus on my family and my work.

Instead of letting doubt hold me back, I lean into learning. I never turn down an opportunity to grow from my peers. And more often than not, when you get a peek behind the curtain, you realize no one is great at everything—and that perspective is grounding.

I’ve seen tents split in half, wedding cakes dropped, florists not show up. Things happen. But I know how to handle it, and that experience gives me confidence.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I am the owner and lead coordinator of Manifestive Events, based in Los Angeles, California. Most of our events take place in Southern California and the desert—but for lovers, we go where you go.

Originally from upstate New York, I started my career there—though not initially in events. I had a brief acting career (my five minutes of fame included being the Education Connection girl and working with Taylor Swift). During that time, I picked up event work as a side hustle while auditioning and ended up exploring different roles within the industry—catering, florals, and even performing with a wedding band for a few years.

I started Manifestive Events during COVID when I realized I was more excited talking about tablescapes than filming self-tapes. I’ve always been pretty ‘woo’, as they say, and the name came to me in a literal dream. I got that tingly feeling that I was on the right path—and I’ve felt that way every day since.

In this industry, burnout is common, but I kept coming back because planning events gives me the same rush as performing. It’s the excitement of creating something immersive, something people experience in real time. I feel incredibly lucky to have found a career that brings me that same joy. Loving what you do is everything—and being invited into someone’s life for their biggest moments is a privilege I never take for granted.

Weddings (especially) can be overwhelming, with so many expectations pulling you in different directions. I help couples focus on what feels right for them, ensuring their day is not just stunning but full of meaningful, unforgettable moments. Manifestive Events is about thoughtful planning, purposeful design, and creating space for core memories.

We have limited dates available for 2025 and are now booking 2026!

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

1. Attitude is everything. The days are long, and emotions (and egos) run high. Staying positive, adaptable, and level-headed makes all the difference—not just for you, but for everyone around you.

2. A great event is only as strong as the team behind it. Every single person plays a crucial role, from the delivery crew to the photographer. I know firsthand that people do their best work when they feel appreciated. Treating every vendor and team member with respect and kindness creates a smoother, more successful event.

3. There is always more to learn. Even when things run perfectly, there’s always an opportunity to refine, grow, and improve. Staying open to learning—whether from experiences, mentors, or even challenges—will keep you ahead in this industry.

Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?

My ideal client has a good budget and an open mind. They’re drawn to intentional design—not just for aesthetics, but for the feeling it creates. They care about moments more than material things, trusting me to shape a wedding that feels effortless, immersive, and them.

They love the collaboration but don’t need to control every detail. They trust the process, embrace the unexpected, and know that the best celebrations are the ones that make space for real, unfiltered joy.

And if they happen to be a Swiftie who loves dogs? Even better.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ManifestiveEvents.com
• Instagram: @manifestive_events

Image Credits

Ria Georgia, Rebecca Jay, Kaley Kocinski