First Class Event Services LLC 

About Us

First Class Event Services began over 14 years ago as a passionate, one-person DJ operation in Fredonia, NY. This early dedication to top-tier entertainment quickly built a sterling reputation, which remains the foundation of our success.

Today, while our roots and main hub remain strong in Upstate New York, we have proudly expanded our reach and established two additional main hubs in Raleigh/Durham, NC and Tampa, FL.

We have evolved into a premier full-service event planning and coordination company, serving clients nationwide and forging robust vendor relationships around the globe. Our suite of services is comprehensive, including custom liquor and bar packages, state-of-the-art equipment rentals, and specialized corporate and wedding planning.

Crucially, our team includes highly skilled professionals, some of whom are aviation specialists. Their expertise has enabled us to forge unique, special relationships and logistics networks, allowing us to seamlessly coordinate complex operations and deliver exceptional results anywhere.

From major corporations and high-profile celebrities across the country to unforgettable events as far away as Paris, France, and Sydney, Australia, First Class Event Services is your trusted partner. We bring our legacy of excellence and a commitment to delivering "first class" results to every event, no matter the scale or location.

Chris Rivera

CEO & Owner

Chris started his journey as a DJ at just 15 years old in Western New York. What began as a local hobby quickly turned into a high-level career where his "world-class ear" earned him spots on iHeartRadio. Over the years, he’s shared and worked behind the scenes with massive names like Ariana Grande, Tyga, and Blxst. If there’s a beat to be dropped or a crowd to be moved, Chris has likely been the one making it happen.

When he isn’t behind the decks, Chris is usually in the sky. As a full-time Flight Attendant for Delta Air Lines. This unique mix of entertainment talent and international travel experience has allowed him to grow his business into a national leader. Now based in Raleigh, NC, Chris focuses on producing large-scale corporate events and high-profile productions, bringing an elite level of professionalism to every project.

As a proud Puerto Rican minority business owner, Chris is fueled by his culture and a deep passion for traveling the world. However, no matter how many countries he visits, his biggest inspiration is his 5-year-old niece, I’liannie, who is one of the most important people in his life. Whether he’s building his empire or flying to a new destination, Chris lives life at full throttle and is constantly setting a new, higher standard for the event industry.

Leadership Team 

Meet Our Directors

Behind every great experience is a team that cares. Our leadership combines years of industry expertise with a deep commitment to community and connection.

Emily Dorman

Director of Planning & Events

Amber Nickerson

Director of Bar & Events

Christina Rosario

Director of Support Operations

Planning tEAM 

Meet Our Planners

Behind every great event is a team of people who care about your story. Meet our planners: a dedicated group of creative thinkers and problem-solvers who live for the 'wow' moments and the quiet details that make your day feel like you.

Antonia Singer

Wedding & Event Planner

Taylor Bankoski

Wedding & Event Planner

Mackenzie Bailey

Wedding & Event Planner

Katelyn Giguere

Wedding & Event Planner