Today we’d like to introduce you to Colleen Bailey.
Hi Colleen, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Joy n’ Company began in 2016, founded by Michelle Searles and Rachel Scherer after years of helping run the historic Villa in San Juan Capistrano. Their experience working closely with clients inspired them to create a planning company with a fun, fresh approach while maintaining a high standard of excellence.
I purchased the company in 2024. Rachel is still an important part of the team, while Michelle has moved on to run the beautiful Swanner House in San Juan Capistrano. She still takes on the occasional wedding, but today it’s primarily Rachel and me leading Joy n’ Company.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Yes, absolutely! Thanks to my mentors paving the way and teaching me the ropes, I was able to quickly gain a strong understanding of how the business works. That foundation helped me grow confidently into wedding coordinating, and it’s allowed me to focus on what matters most which is creating seamless events and bringing genuine happiness to our clients.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
What do you do, what do you specialize in?
I specialize in wedding coordination with a strong focus on design, organization, and hospitality. My background blends visual arts, merchandising, event planning, graphic design, and even web design. I studied Visual Communications at FIDM and later continued my creative education at Arizona State University in graphic design.
All of that training in design, merchandising, and creative communication has shaped the artistic lens I bring into every event. I’m able to envision a wedding not just as a timeline or layout, but as a fully realized experience. One where the aesthetic, the energy, and the personal details all work together seamlessly.
What really drives me is transforming a couple’s vision into something they never imagined could be possible. I love elevating the tiny details, creating cohesive moments, and making the process feel fun and effortless. Clients often tell me I bring a calming presence paired with a strong creative eye and positive peppy attitutde and that combination allows me to design events that feel fresh, intentional, and totally unique to each couple.”
What are you known for, etc…
I’m known for my creative vision, my eye for detail, and my ability to stay incredibly calm and collected no matter what’s happening behind the scenes. Clients often describe me as both their designer and their steady anchor. I love elevating the small moments, creating cohesive and intentional designs, and making the entire planning process feel fun, effortless, and stress-free.
What are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of the fact that I turned my creative passions into a successful career and eventually stepped into a leadership role as part owner of Joy n’ Company. Being able to blend design, organization, and hospitality into a brand that truly reflects who I am has been one of my greatest accomplishments. I’m proud that I built a path that lets me create meaningful experiences for clients while also growing a company that inspires me every day.
Watching Joy n’ Company evolve and knowing I am now part of the hand that is shaping its future is incredibly rewarding. I also love that this career constantly introduces me to incredible people, from clients to vendors to venue teams. Building those relationships and collaborating with such talented professionals adds so much joy and energy to what I do.
What sets me apart?
I think what sets me apart is the combination of creativity and hospitality—I have an artist’s eye for detail but also a genuine love for people. My goal is always to make my clients feel like absolute superstars on their big day. I’m known for being organized, calm, and upbeat, and for creating events that feel personal, polished, and joy-filled from start to finish.
How do you think about luck?
I would say luck has played a meaningful role in my journey, especially early on in my career.
Working at a bakery gave me the unexpected opportunity to step into the world of weddings and events. Creating desserts for clients allowed me to meet and connect with venues, vendors, and couples, which gave me invaluable exposure to the industry.
I feel lucky to have had that hands-on experience, as it helped me build relationships, learn the ins and outs of event coordination, and discover my passion for creating memorable experiences. Beyond that, I also consider myself lucky to have had mentors and colleagues along the way who guided me, shared their knowledge, and inspired me to grow. Those moments of serendipity and connection truly shaped the path that led me to co-owning Joy n’ Company today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.joyncompanyevents.com/
- Instagram: joy_n_company
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joyncompanyevents/?pnref=lhc
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/joy-n-company-san-clemente
Image Credits
1. Leanne+Drake-SanzStudioPhotos
Location: Casino/San Clemente
Photo by: Sanz Studio Photos
2. Dani+Alex-HannahSmithPhotography
Location: Agape 1928/San Clemente
Photo by: Hannah Smith Photography
3. Macie+Ethan-Wylder Photography
Location: Casa Romantica/San Clemente
Photo by: Wylder Photography
4. Emily+Cooper-MckenzieTaylorPhotography
Location: The Swanner House/San Juan Capistrano
Photo by: Mckenzie Taylor Photography
5. ColleenBailey-Rachel Scherer Photography
Location: The Swanner House/San Juan Capistrano
