Meet Diana Mok | Southern California Wedding Planner

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

Hi Diana, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
A close friend and former co-worker, who was a wedding planner, invited me to assist her at a wedding. I walked in not knowing what to expect and walked out with sore feet and a newfound excitement that continues to fuel me with every wedding I plan. Witnessing the seamless collaboration of vendors working behind the scenes felt like watching an orchestra, each part harmonizing perfectly to create an unforgettable day for the couple.

After assisting at several weddings, my friend encouraged me to take on my first client. At first, I hesitated and said no. But she assured me that I was ready and promised to guide me every step of the way. With her support, I took the leap and that decision changed the trajectory of my career.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Balance has always been something I strive for. Growing up in the San Gabriel Valley, I often navigated the space between my Asian heritage and American upbringing. That search for balance is why I love celebrating the unique stories, cultural traditions, new rituals, or a blend of both for modern, multicultural couples through my weddings.

My career path has been anything but linear. I graduated with a science degree but always felt drawn to storytelling, whether listening about people’s experiences or on the big screen. After working at a design agency right out of college, a mentor encouraged me to apply to art school, so I took the leap. While I loved design, I knew I would be freelancing for a while after graduating, and at the time, that lifestyle wasn’t the right fit for me. However, my experience gave me a unique perspective, where I knew how to advocate for both designers and clients, and it was here that I realized I sought a role that blended creativity and strategy.

Landing roles in creative marketing at entertainment studios felt like milestone achievements. But while I was in a creative space, my role was more project management-based than creative. When my co-worker and mentor introduced me to wedding planning, everything clicked. The transition from creative marketing to wedding coordination felt natural, not only because of the transferable skills I had developed but also because of the support I received from the wedding planning community. I’ve gained so much confidence in my abilities, learning how to pivot under pressure, balance logistical details with design, and how to truly listen to each couple’s vision.

Through wedding planning, I’ve found the balance between design, storytelling, and problem-solving. Every wedding I plan is a reflection of the couple’s journey, blending cultural traditions, personal details, and seamless execution. It’s funny that in the beginning of my career, I always imagined myself in a steady job, never owning my own business. But now, in this chapter of my life as a mom, I’ve embraced the freelance lifestyle. I’m learning to navigate taking care of my kids while also balancing my business, growing in ways I never expected, and finding fulfillment in crafting celebrations that feel truly personal and unforgettable.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Having spent most of my life in the San Gabriel Valley (SGV), I didn’t realize how unique it was compared to other parts of Los Angeles until I started working outside of the area. While it may not have the glitzy, glamorous reputation of other parts of Los Angeles, the SGV, particularly places like San Gabriel, Monterey Park, and Arcadia, offers a rich and authentic experience that is often overlooked. Its vibrant food scene tells the story of deep cultural roots, creating a sense of place that feels undeniably genuine and unexpectedly special.

I love taking friends on food adventures around the San Gabriel Valley, especially those who haven’t had the chance to experience it the way I have. While a mall might not be the first place that comes to mind, The Shops at Santa Anita is actually a great introduction to the area, offering a little something for everyone. You’ll find familiar favorites like Sbarro, Hot Dog on a Stick, and Chipotle, but the real highlight is the chance to dive into the SGV’s incredible Asian food scene.

Din Tai Fung, famous for their xiao long bao is a must try since Arcadia was home to its first U.S. location.But if you’re craving something with a little more heat, go to Noodle St. for their Qing Hai Clear Cold Noodle appetizer. To end on a sweet note, grab a matcha mochi drink from Warabi-Mochi Kamakura before heading across the street to the Los Angeles County Arboretum. It’s the perfect place to walk off your meal and spot peacocks roaming around.

For a more laid-back outing, Lacy Park is one of my favorite spots to catch up with friends over a picnic. My ideal spread includes the best breakfast burritos in LA from L.A. Breakfast Burrito in Monterey Park, along with a special cold cut banh mi from Banh Mi My Tho. Since boba shops are a dime a dozen in the SGV, I like to mix it up and introduce friends to Coconut & Co., a Southeast Asian drink spot famous for its signature coconut shakes. To complete the spread, I have to add the California rolls from Yama Sushi.

Of course, no trip to the SGV is complete without dim sum! While opinions on the best spot may vary, I still love NBC Seafood in Monterey Park for its no-frills, classic experience. If you’re craving something more warm and comforting, Luyixian is my go-to for the best beef noodle soup. Their deep, herbal broth and melt-in-your-mouth beef are hard to beat. For something a little different, Dolan’s Uyghur Cuisine is a hidden gem that blends the familiar flavors of Chinese food with bold Middle Eastern and Central Asian influences. And, since I’m a self-proclaimed boba connoisseur, no food adventure would be complete without a stop at my two favorite boba spots: Chi-Cha San Chen for their exceptional teas and Xing Fu Tang for their housemade boba.

Although there are so many other places in the SGV that I absolutely love, these are the places that I think would be a great start before doing a deeper dive into the food scene.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am dedicating this post to Cynthia Montoya, who introduced me to the wonderful world of wedding planning. She continues to be my mentor, my biggest cheerleader, and the reason I had the courage to take this leap. I’m also deeply grateful to Kristen Soriano of Home Run Events, Sarah Blessinger of Kindred Weddings and Events, and Heather Hoesch of Heather Hoesch Events and Planner Life Academy for offering me countless opportunities to grow.

Lastly, I want to give a shout-out to my incredible husband, Ben. Through every high and low, he’s been my unwavering support. He encourages me to embrace every opportunity that comes my way, and selflessly takes care of our twins when I’m immersed in meetings or working weddings. I’m so grateful for his constant love and partnership.

Website: https://www.pivotalevents.co/

Instagram: pvtlevents

Image Credits
Head shot
Photography: Ashley Rae Studio (https://ashleyrae.studio)

4 Photos
Photography: Ariel Min (https://arielmin.com)
Design & Planning: Pivotal Events (https://www.pivotalevents.co)
Venue: Citizen News Events (https://www.citizennewsevents.com)
Florals: Village No.7 (https://www.villageno7.com)
Rentals: Archive (https://archiverentals.com)
Cake: Sweet Pea Cakery LA (https://www.sweetpeacakeryla.com)
Hair + Makeup: Christy Yoo Artistry (https://christyyoo.com) & Sweet Dream Makeup (https://www.sweetdreamsmakeup.com)
Stationery: Velvet Fox Designs (https://velvetfoxdesigns.com)
Dress: East Meets Dress (https://eastmeetsdress.com)
Suit: Friar Tux (https://www.friartux.com)
Models: Malika Kanatova (https://www.instagram.com/malikakanatova_) & Vihan Chelliah (https://www.instagram.com/vihanchelliah/?hl=en)