Spotlight on Christine McDevitt: The Visionary Behind CM Event Design

In the world of event planning, creativity and organization are key. Christine McDevitt, the founder of CM Event Design, embodies these qualities, transforming visions into unforgettable experiences.

The Birth of CM Event Design

Christine's passion for event planning began long before she launched CM Event Design. "I've always loved bringing people together and creating memorable experiences," she shares. "Starting my own business felt like the natural next step." Her dedication to her craft is evident, as she meticulously curates each event to reflect her clients' personalities and dreams. Her experience with prestigious brands such as Starwood, Sonesta, Hilton, The Mirage, and The Bellagio taught her the importance of precision, luxury service, and the art of storytelling through events. The spark that ignited her passion for event planning came from her mother, who was known for her vibrant celebrations. "She was the life of the party and loved throwing a good celebration," Christine recalls. This familial influence, combined with her corporate experience, led her to establish CM Event Design, where she focuses on designing meaningful celebrations that reflect each couple’s unique story.

Favorite Types of Events

When asked about her favorite types of events, Christine shares, "My favorite types of events are the ones that are really personal and intentional." She finds joy in events that tell a story and feel authentic, whether it’s an intimate gathering in the countryside or a luxurious large-scale affair. "What really lights me up is when the event tells a story—when it reflects the couple or the host in a way that feels authentic," she says.

A Memorable Celebration at Walt Disney World

One of Christine's standout experiences was a five-day wedding celebration at Walt Disney World in 2023. "It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience—not just for the couple and their guests, but honestly, for me too," she reflects. The event included a week of wedding-related activities, from welcome parties and park takeovers to private dinners and character experiences. Christine describes the challenge of coordinating across multiple venues and working with Disney's team to create something unforgettable. "That week was a masterclass in logistics, creativity, and guest experience," she says. The event's success led to it being nominated for the NACE Wedding of the Year Award, marking a significant achievement in her career.

Career Highlights and Emotional Moments

One of Christine's favorite moments in the planning process is the room reveal with the couple. "There’s just something so special about it—after months, sometimes years, of planning, designing, and fine-tuning every detail, that moment when they walk into the space for the first time is pure magic," she explains. Witnessing the emotions of joy and awe as couples see their vision come to life is a rewarding experience she cherishes. However, not every event goes as planned. Christine recounts a challenging moment from her hotel days when a florist and decorator failed to show up just hours before a wedding. "In that instant, I knew I had to shift from venue manager to full-on wedding planner and designer," she recalls. With quick thinking, her team sourced available décor and transformed the ballroom into a beautiful setting, demonstrating that the essence of an event lies in the feelings it evokes rather than just the aesthetics.

A Peek into Christine's Life

Beyond her professional achievements, Christine is very involved in the community. She serves as the Vice President of the Music City NACE Chapter and is a member of the South Florida Chapter. "I love being part of a community that’s all about connection, education, and elevating the industry," she shares. On a personal note, Christine lives with her beloved Yorkie, Jackson, who she affectionately describes as "very spoiled." "He definitely runs the house! He’s my little shadow and has sat in on more planning calls than I can count," she laughs. In her free time, Christine enjoys exploring new restaurants—Italian cuisine being her favorite—listening to live music, and escaping to the beach whenever possible. She also loves hosting events at her home, whether it's intimate girls' nights or larger holiday celebrations.