Today we’d like to introduce you to Linnea Marklund.
Hi Linnea, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born in Iowa in 1998 and grew up in Sweden. After 20 years of cold winters, I decided it was time for a change, so I packed my bags and flew across the world by myself, landing in sunny Orange County. After a short time here, I discovered a passion for event planning. My love for decorating, styling, creativity, and strong organizational skills naturally fit into this field.
Growing up, I was a curious and creative person—traits I still carry with me today. I participated in sports like cheerleading, gymnastics, and swimming. I got my first job at 14, and over the years, I tried various roles, gaining a wealth of experience. What I realized is that the aspects I loved most about those jobs all came together in event planning.
I completed a summer internship in the field and quickly learned that this was my true passion. Since then, I have had the pleasure of planning several weddings in both Sweden and the USA, working from scratch to finish. My portfolio also includes birthday parties, baby showers, bachelorette parties and grand openings, where I’ve handled every detail—from budgeting and vendor management to design and execution.
Six years later, here I am in sunny California, running my own event planning company, CENS Agency, bringing my clients’ visions to life with creativity, organization, and a passion for events.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One of the main obstacles I faced as an event planner was starting my career in a new country without an established network. Since I didn’t grow up in America, I had to build my connections from scratch, which was both challenging and rewarding. Additionally, I launched my business right around the time COVID-19 was still around, which made hosting larger events difficult due to restrictions and health concerns.
Following that, the economic impact of inflation presented another challenge, as clients became more cautious with their spending. Despite these obstacles, I’ve learned to adapt, find creative solutions, and stay resilient, which has ultimately strengthened my skills as an event planner.
We’ve been impressed with Cens Agency, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
CENS Agency is a full-service event planning company based in Orange County, California, specializing in creating unforgettable experiences for our clients. Whether it’s a corporate event, a private celebration, or a branded activation, we bring a meticulous eye for detail, creativity, and professionalism to every project.
What sets us apart is our personalized approach. We understand that no two events are alike, so we tailor our services to meet the specific needs and vision of each client. From concept development and vendor selection to on-site coordination and flawless execution, we handle every step of the process with care and expertise.
Our three signature service packages—Essentials, Signature, and Elite—offer flexibility for clients at different stages of planning, ensuring everyone can benefit from our expertise, regardless of their budget or vision.
We’re most proud of our ability to bring people together in meaningful ways. Whether it’s a “First Fairy Tale” themed birthday party, a corporate wellness event, or a chic beach celebration, we take pride in turning ideas into reality and creating moments that leave lasting impressions.
For us, it’s not just about planning an event—it’s about crafting experiences that reflect the personality and goals of our clients while fostering connection and joy.
We’d love for your readers to know that CENS Agency isn’t just an event planning service; we’re a partner in creating memories. If you’re dreaming up something special, we’re here to make it happen.
For more information, visit us at www.censagency.com or reach out to us directly at info@censagency.com. We look forward to bringing your vision to life!
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Since I’m not originally from here, I had to start completely from scratch with networking. I really just had to throw myself out there, try different approaches, and figure out what worked best. Some clients are better fits than others, and the same goes for business strategies—you learn as you go.
I don’t have a specific mentor, but I’ve found value in talking to multiple people with different experiences and perspectives. I take the advice that resonates with me the most and apply it in a way that fits my goals. Networking is all about building relationships, being open to new ideas, and staying adaptable.
The key is to stay proactive, attend events, and not be afraid to put yourself out there—you never know what connection or advice might shape your next move.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.censagency.com/
- Instagram: Instagram.com/censagency
- Facebook: facebook.com/censagency
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cens-agency/
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/cWZJxr8wOf
Image Credits
Alli Elizabeth @allielizphotos Love is Wedding @love_is_wed Julie @flashesoflove_
