As the Third Edition Table Design Exhibition 2024 approaches, we’re excited to introduce one of the featured designers, Guadalupe Alvarez. Born and raised in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, Guadalupe is the creative mind behind Penzi, known for crafting beautiful, unique wedding and event experiences.
With a love for blending tradition and modern elegance, Guadalupe has become one of the top wedding planners in the world, named by DWP Insider as one of the top 100 planners globally. Her passion for design, rooted in her cultural heritage, shines through in every project she takes on.
We had the chance to speak with Guadalupe about her journey and what to expect from her at the upcoming event. Here's what she had to share.
You've had an incredible entrepreneurial journey, starting your first business at a very young age. How did those early experiences shape your passion for design and event planning?
I’ve always loved working, being creative, and using my hands. Starting work at a young age taught me responsibility, respect for time and people, creativity, resourcefulness, and of course, earning my own money to pursue my dreams. These experiences shaped my passion for design and event planning.
You’ve organized weddings for clients from over 65 nationalities, representing diverse cultures and traditions. How do you approach blending different cultural elements into a cohesive and meaningful wedding experience?
It all starts with listening to the couple, asking questions, and learning about their identity, culture, and what they wish to showcase. Sometimes they ask for a "Mexican" wedding, but we always incorporate one or two elements from their culture. Weddings are the blending of two families, two cultures, even if the couple is from the same country. We pay attention to who they are and seamlessly weave in the important aspects of each culture, creating a wedding that’s personal and unique.
With the increasing popularity of destination weddings, how do you ensure Penzi Bodas stays ahead of trends and continues to offer innovative solutions for your clients?
Our focus is on the couple, not trends, because trends come and go. We strive to reflect the couple’s true selves on their wedding day. Forty years from now, we want them to be able to say, "This was us!" Our weddings take place in a World Heritage city full of romance, color, and charm, which gives us an advantage. While we stay innovative with music, décor, and logistics, our main priority is always the couple and their love story.
In the wedding industry, there are many types of clients, and it's crucial to meet their specific needs. How do you manage to work successfully with clients who may not be so easy to please?
In this industry, you encounter all types of clients—some are wonderful, while others are more challenging. The key is to ask the right questions, understand their preferences, and build a connection. After almost 20 years, I can often tell within five minutes if a client will be 'easy' or more demanding. Weddings are hugely important, not just to the couple but to their families and friends, which brings immense pressure to create the perfect day—though 'perfect' can mean something different to everyone.
There’s also an unspoken connection, an energy we share with our clients. It’s that gut feeling, an intuitive sense of how things will go. It's hard to explain, but after years of experience, I’ve learned to trust that inner voice, whether it tells me things will flow smoothly or require more effort.
You’ve worked with a wide variety of materials, from floral arrangements to intricate table settings and decor. Do you have a favorite material or element to work with?
Anything handmade. I don’t have a single favorite material, but I do love working with colors and textiles.
As a participant in the Table Design Exhibition, how do you create an impactful and memorable table setup that reflects both your personal style and the cultural richness of Mexico? Any hints for the audience—what can they expect from your design?
Mexico is an incredible country, rich in culture, artisanship, diverse climates, and unique experiences. My heritage is a blend of indigenous and European influences, and I have simple tastes—sunsets, walks in nature, beautiful embroidery, family, warmth, and making people happy. What you can expect from my designs is a reflection of Mexico’s warmth and the spirit of its people infused into every detail.
How does it feel to be one of the featured designers at the Table Design Exhibition this year? ?
I feel proud, not just for myself but for my team. I’m excited, nervous, and above all, grateful that the Table Design Exhibition has featured Penzi and me. I met Meltem years ago, and I’ve always felt a connection. I am constantly amazed by everything she does, and being a part of her dream is very important to me. And of course, representing Mexico is an honor.
What excites you most about showcasing your work at this event?
Istanbul has always fascinated me, so being able to showcase my work there feels like a dream. Sharing the stage with world-class designers is an honor and a privilege I will treasure forever.
Is there a message you aim to convey through your design at this year’s Table Design Exhibition?
The message I want to convey is that we can all work together, regardless of where we come from. We can be kind and respectful, no matter our culture, religion, or profession.
You’ve crafted magical experiences for so many people. If you were to design your own dream event—whether personal or professional—what would it look like, and what elements would be most important to you?
What a great question! For my ideal venue, it would need charm and a stunning view. I wouldn’t want to create an event entirely from scratch; instead, I’d incorporate the venue’s natural elements. I envision lots of handmade touches—colorful textiles, artisanal rugs, hand-crafted plates and glasses, and plenty of candles, all locally made. Warm lighting, simple delicious food, plenty of champagne and tequila, and music that keeps everyone dancing would complete the setting. And of course, my friends would be there to share the celebration!
Is there a particular artist, tradition, or moment in nature that consistently fuels your creativity?
Traveling fuels my creativity. I always learn a lot before visiting a new country and gain even more once I’m there. I also love working with artisans and showcasing their handmade items at our weddings.
After such a successful career, what’s next for you and Penzi Bodas? Are there any new projects or ventures you’re particularly excited about?
Traveling is always on the horizon. I also have a handmade textile store where I collaborate with artisans from different parts of the world. We’re starting a new project in January, and in June, I’m doing the Inca Trail in Peru. It’s exciting because it’s motivating me to stay in shape, which helps me handle the physical demands of wedding planning.
Looking back at your career, what do you hope your legacy will be in the world of event and wedding planning?
I hope my legacy will be that I helped put San Miguel, my hometown, on the global wedding destination map.
What is one piece of wisdom or a lesson you’ve learned over the years that you wish you had known at the start of your career?
Relax—everything will turn out the way it’s meant to be.
