Nicole Arena hails from NY and spent several years working in luxury fashion buying for companies including Prada and Louis Vuitton before she turned her attention to events. She began her events career working for the world renowned luxury event planner Mindy Weiss and then founded her own LA-based boutique event firm Green Ribbon Parties. 

As a go-to expert on all things event-related, she noticed one question that would repeatedly come up from her friends and clients: what restaurant she'd suggest for private gatherings, whether it be for a rehearsal dinner, baby shower, or corporate event. After countless hours spent researching individual restaurants it dawned on Nicole that in such an increasingly streamlined world, there should be an easier, more centralized resource for people to find and book such events. 

The name The Social Arena is not only a playful nod to Nicole's last name, but also the differentiating factor in what we do. As a planner for almost a decade, Nicole personally vets each spot with her unique point of view to ensure that users will feel like they are being guided by an expert with a nod to delicious food, amazing design, and excellent service. As the site grows, we hope that it will serve as an invaluable resource for those who share her belief that gathering for a meal -- and a good party -- is one of life's greatest pleasures.