Meet Courtney Lutkus | Event Planner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Courtney Lutkus and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Courtney, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
At Simply Radiant Events, we believe that creating beautiful experiences can go hand-in-hand with creating a positive impact. Our mission isn’t just about planning events, it’s about doing so in a way that supports the community, protects the planet, and leaves a lasting impression for the right reasons. We also try to incorporate as many sustainable choices as possible.

Sustainability is a major pillar of our work. We offer eco-friendly event planning options, from using reusable and compostable materials to sourcing local and seasonal food and partnering with vendors who share our commitment to reducing waste. It’s important to us that our events are not only stylish and successful—but also responsible.

Giving back to the local community is another part of our purpose. We love supporting small, local businesses whenever possible. Whether it’s hiring local artisans, floral designers, or caterers, we intentionally invest in the community with each event we plan.

We’re also passionate about education and mentorship. We often connect with aspiring planners, sharing knowledge and encouragement, and we’re working on building out workshops to help others succeed in the industry. We also teach an online course.

At the end of the day, our goal is to make a positive impact not just at the event, but far beyond it. When our clients choose Simply Radiant Events, they’re not only getting a personalized, high-quality experience, they’re also supporting a business that truly cares about people, community, and the planet.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Simply Radiant Events began with a passion for creating memorable moments and seamless experiences. After years in the event industry, I saw a need for personalized, detail-driven planning, especially in the corporate world. I wanted to bring a boutique approach to events that felt both polished and personal. Simply Radiant Events was born out of that desire,to take the stress off clients while elevating their event to something extraordinary.

We offer full-service event planning, coordination, and design for a wide range of events—from luxury corporate gatherings to social celebrations, and private parties. Our services are customizable, whether clients need complete planning from start to finish or just day-of support. We also focus on sustainability, offering eco-friendly options for decor, catering, and more.

Corporate events are truly our specialty. We handle everything from large-scale conferences and team-building retreats to executive dinners and product launches. Our goal is to reflect the client’s brand, values, and objectives in every detail—creating events that are engaging, impactful, and flawlessly executed. We often manage logistics for multi-day itineraries, guest travel coordination, and immersive branded experiences.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1: Welcome + Coastal Vibes
Morning:
Pick up from John Wayne Airport and head straight to Lido Marina Village in Newport Beach. We’d stroll the charming shops, grab a latte from Herst Coffee, and take in the harbor views.

Afternoon:
Check in at The Resort at Pelican Hill—because if we’re doing this, we’re doing it in style. Spa appointments, of course.

Evening:
Dinner at Nobu Newport Beach—incredible sushi, gorgeous ambiance, and the perfect waterfront setting to kick off the trip. Maybe a sunset cocktail at The Deck in Laguna after.

Day 2: Beach Day + Local Eats
Morning:
Beach setup in Laguna—picnic-style, of course. I’d create one of our signature Simply Radiant Events luxury beach picnics with coastal decor, charcuterie boards, and chilled sparkling water.

Afternoon:
Explore the Laguna Art Museum or browse local art galleries. Quick stop for açai bowls at Banzai Bowls.

Evening:
Dinner at Nick’s Laguna Beach—a staple! Afterwards, a walk along the boardwalk under the stars.

Day 3: Adventure + Nature
Morning:
Early hike at Crystal Cove State Park, followed by brunch at Beachcomber Café right on the sand.

Afternoon:
Rent bikes and cruise around Balboa Island. Grab a frozen banana (a local classic) and take the ferry over to the peninsula.

Evening:
Taco Tuesday at Wild Goose Tavern or Sol Mexican Cocina—great food, great margaritas, and always a fun vibe.

Day 4: LA Day Trip
Morning to Evening:
Drive up to LA for a little Hollywood glam. Stop at The Getty Center, shop on Melrose, and grab lunch at Gracias Madre or The Butcher’s Daughter.

Evening:
Catch a show at The Hollywood Bowl or rooftop drinks at EP & LP before heading back to OC.

Day 5: OC Culture + Wine
Morning:
Coffee and pastries at Alta Coffee in Newport, then head to Mission San Juan Capistrano—a beautiful historical site with lush gardens.

Afternoon:
Wine tasting at Giracci Vineyards in Silverado Canyon—a hidden gem that feels like Napa tucked into Orange County.

Evening:
Dinner at Oak Laguna Beach—amazing food, elevated but cozy atmosphere. Followed by a quiet night on the resort balcony with dessert and wine.

Day 6: Shopping + Sunset Cruise
Morning:
Shopping at South Coast Plaza or the OC Mix at SOCO—depending on the vibe (luxury or indie).

Afternoon:
Book a private Duffy boat and cruise through Newport Harbor with a cheese board and champagne. Chill, music, and sunshine.

Evening:
Dinner at The Cannery—right on the water, with fresh seafood and beautiful views.

Day 7: Brunch + Farewell
Morning:
Sunday brunch at Las Brisas in Laguna (the views are incredible), and a relaxing walk through Heisler Park.

Afternoon:
Last-minute photo ops and a stop at Sidecar Doughnuts for the road.

Evening:
Drop off at the airport with a big hug, a beachy gift bag, and memories for life!

Website: https://www.sreventplanning.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sreventplanning

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-lutkus-a5594814/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/sreventplanning

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sreventplanning

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/simply-radiant-events-brea