Respected throughout the wedding industry for their business savvy and artistic talent, Private Receptions brings to life a company that not only has it all, but gives every ounce of it to you! Private Receptions™ is a full service wedding planning and wedding design company founded by Nerissa Balland in 2008, now run by Creative Director, Lauren Cooper. Nerissa formed Private Receptions™ to help alleviate the anxiety and frustration that people have when faced with the complexity of orchestrating and designing their own Wedding. The firm specializes in one-of-a-kind weddings that represent their client's unique style and vision. Based in New York City, the firm services the greater metropolitan areas of New York, New Jersey, and Washington, D.C. Who is Lauren? Lauren Cooper achieved an MFA in Arts Management in 2010 during which time she discovered her talent for creative event planning, Laure honed this passion and quickly began her professional journey as an Event Consultant and became a Certified Wedding Planner with a certificate from the QC School of Wedding Planning. Lauren was nominated to participate on the 2010-2011 Communications Commitee for the International Special Events Society for the New York Metro Chapter. Her involvement with ISES NY Metro was invaluable in helping the chapter internally price Digital communications to members and nonmembers. If Lauren is not planning a wedding, networking within professional associations and volunteering her time to the industry you may find her assisting the Urban Girl Squad event planning team, where she plans and produces social events throughout Manhattan. Lauren provides clients with a fresh perspective for bringing their vision to reality. Her ability to handle difficult situations with grace, and her impeccable attention to detail make her a great asset to every bride's wedding planning journey.