A Little Bit About Us...
With over 20 years of experience in the events industry,
owner Lani Ballonoff’s business philosophy is simple:
Provide creative designs, great customer service, attention to detail, and utmost professionalism.
Lani infuses his extensive background in theatre and the arts to bring flair to weddings, social and corporate events, and gatherings of all types. Along with his team of dedicated event directors, technicians, and specialists, Lani and all the experts at SPARK Creative Events have one goal—creating your perfect event.
Get Inspired. Find Your SPARK.
WHO WE SERVE
Brides & Grooms
LGBTQIA Weddings
Wedding & Event Planners
Caterers & Rental Companies
Private Parties & Celebrations
Corporate Events
Nonprofit Groups
Venues
WHERE
Santa Barbara
Montecito
Goleta
Santa Ynez
San Luis Obispo
Ojai
Ventura
Team SPARK
Lani Ballonoff
President & Chief Designer
A California native, Lani’s passion for art and technology led him to the theatre to design lighting, sound, and sets. After spending ten years working in the theatre and completing his business degree at UCSB, Lani founded what has grown to be SPARK Creative Group in 2006. The company combined his fascination with creating illuminated worlds and his considerable technological know-how. Lani prides himself on excellent customer service paired with unique custom realization of each client’s vision. He leads an exceptional and ever-growing team that is raising the bar for event production throughout the central and south coast. When not managing events, you can find Lani working in the garden or in the kitchen with his wife, daughter Annabelle and son Zac, or restoring vintage cars.
Alexander Jillson
Operations & Event Director
Alex is a Redlands native with family ties to Santa Barbara. He loves exploring the central coast's natural beauty and as an avid cyclist, can be found on 100 mile rides or quick trips to the local breweries. Alex is a people person which led him to a degree in psychology. He can walk you through each step of planning your perfect event, from design to execution.
Hayley Ramagos
Event Director
Originally from New Orleans, Hayley joined the team after relocating from Los Angeles where she had been working in production design for the television and film industry. Hayley enjoys managing design projects and working with creative people. On her days off you can find Hayley hiking local trails or relaxing with a good book.
Stephanie Nguyen
Event Director
Stephanie is a San Jose native who now resides in sunny Southern California. Her master craft is the art of turning everyday objects into one of a kind masterpieces. With her background in visual merchandising and marketing, she brings a unique twist to the event industry. Outside of the office, you can find her catching fly balls at the softball fields!
Sarah Flores
Warehouse Manager
Sarah is a Santa Barbara native who loves all things Halloween. She went back to school to work in a more creative industry and received degrees in Studio and Theatre Art. She has since worked in local theatre honing her wig and makeup skills before joining SPARK. At SPARK, Sarah enjoys bringing the artistic vision of the event directors to life as well as keeping an organized warehouse.
Alek Hernandez
Rentals Manager
Bio coming soon...
Susan Perachio
Office Manager
Bio coming soon...