Our Story
We are no strangers to hard work...
Jessica and Eric met while working at a restaurant in Washington DC. They have both been working in the hospitality industry since their teenage years. After years of working for others they decided to go into business together.
Jessica & Eric live in Alexandria, Virginia with their son Lucas and their two dogs Chubo and Stella. When they are not working they enjoy hosting friends and family in their home, having intense corn hole competitions, making home improvements, going on family walks, and adventures with Lucas.
Jessica Rivera
Founder & Lead Planner
Jessica was born and raised in Pittsfield, Massachusetts and moved to the DMV area in 2010. She started working in restaurants at the age of 15 and has always been attracted to the hustle and bustle of the hospitality industry. She started her events career working for José Andres at Zaytinya in Washington, DC. After a few years focusing on corporate events she decided she wanted to get into the wedding business. Her next adventure was at the historic Cedar Knoll in Alexandria, Virginia. It was there that she fell in love with all things wedding and decided to venture out on her own and developed Branch Event Planning.
"There are so many details that can get over looked when planning an event. Planning anything that involves more than two people can be stressful, and I love being able to assist with the organization of all events - big and small."
In her spare time Jessica enjoys working out, spending time with her family, going to the beach, trying out new recipes in the kitchen and crafting.
Eric Milton
Cofounder & Executive Chef
Eric was born and raised in Los Angeles, California and moved to the DMV area in 2011. He started helping his parents in the kitchen at the young age of 6 and has fond memories making spanokopita. After graduating high school he headed to Santa Barbara for culinary school. Chef Eric has worked at many fine restaurants including Barcelona, Pearl Dive, Zaytinya, China Chilcano and Gypsy Kitchen. His professional background has provided him with the versatility that has allowed him to explore international cuisines.
"I've always thrived in high pressure environments and actually enjoy it. Some of the best memories in life revolve around food and it is pretty amazing that I get to be a part of that."
In his spare time Eric enjoys golfing, playing poker, tinkering around the house, playing basketball with Lucas and traveling.