Meet the Team

Meet Jennifer Zabinski

Founder & President of JZ Events

N amed best of the best by Harper’s Bazaar and VOGUE, Jennifer Zabinski didn’t always know she wanted to be a wedding planner.

Her journey began at Cornell’s prestigious School of Hotel Administration, where she sowed her seeds in the fine art of hospitality. After graduation, Jennifer headed west to California and swiftly rose the ranks at luxury hotels like The Ritz Carlton and Four Seasons. She became one of the youngest senior staff members to lead events—and somewhere along the way, she had found her spark.

Knowing that a career change was in order, Jennifer landed back in NYC where she co-founded the boutique planning company The Wedding Library and led their events division for a decade.

In 2011, JZ Events was born, combining Jennifer’s methodical, collaborative approach to planning with her solid business acumen and creative spirit. In the 12 years since, she has planned, designed and executed hundreds of events in some of the most exciting, fabulous and far-flung destinations around the world, from Aspen and Amalfi to Cancun and Cap Ferret.

Jennifer brings over two decades’ worth of tight-knit vendor relationships, including award-winning caterers, floral designers and photographers. Whether you’re throwing an intimate gathering for 10 or a grand celebration for 500, Jennifer knows precisely the right professionals to carry out your exact vision.

Jennifer’s work has graced the pages of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Martha Stewart Weddings, Grace Ormonde Wedding Style, Brides, Glamour and The Knot. She is best known for executing events for high-profile clientele, including Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian’s New Orleans nuptials. Jennifer lives in New York City with her husband, two children and dogs Gunner and Abbey.

Meet the JZ Events Team

Kimberley Curtin

Kimberley was born and raised in Sydney, Australia. Following her graduation, she began her career in the entertainment industry, where she had the opportunity to work in countries all over the globe. Kimberley’s background in entertainment evolved into event production and planning. Her sense of adventure brought her to New York, which she has called home for the past few years. Kimberley joined JZE as a Senior Planner in 2017, with a focus in weddings, destination events and milestone celebrations. In her downtime, she enjoys sampling New York’s food and wine scene, and immersing herself in her first love, the theater.

Best advice for the wedding party giving a toast?

Keep it short and sweet! Tell stories that are memorable for both family and friends. 

Floral designs or art installations?/strong>

I personally love flowers, however for our clients, it depends on their aesthetic and the venue they pick. 

Have you dreamed about your wedding since you were a little girl?

No, but working in this industry has shown me the top take-aways for our guests, and what I would prioritize. 

What is your favorite type of party to plan?

Any event that allows me to work with a previous client. Being a part of their celebrations and contributing to their milestones is so rewarding.  

Favorite wedding song?

Ordinary People by John Legend. 

Michelle Meltzer

Michelle grew up in New York City not far from the JZE Office. She traveled away for college to Macalester in St. Paul, Minnesota. Following graduation, Michelle started her career as a director of education and events in museums throughout NYC and San Francisco. After several years at the American Museum of Natural History, Michelle decided to transition from working in venues to working with clients as an event planner. She began working with Jennifer, and has been a go-to planner for destination weddings, especially in Mexico and Europe, as well as NYC-based nuptials, for the past 9 years. When she is not planning events, Michelle can be found training for her 9th marathon, trying out-of-the-box restaurants, and spending time with family and friends.

Favorite wedding location?

I love destination weddings, in particular Mexico, or any good beach. People are just happier, and more relaxed in a destination. They aren’t thinking about what time they have a workout class the next day. 
What is your favorite song to play to get you ready for a party?
 Anything by Beyonce or Drake. 
What is your favorite designer?

Nike or Everlane for my actual life. Brock, Off-White, Ulla Johnson for my dream life. 
Barefoot on the beach or city skyline?
Beach!

What is the biggest crisis you’ve averted?

A hurricane. It became a tropical storm and missed the venue. 

Shira Citron

After surviving the perils of High School, Shira attended The University of Miami, and as her Dad puts it – she majored in “Delta Phi Epsilon.” As her career started out in the music industry and entertainment PR, it’s no wonder she gravitated towards planning social events. Her love of logistics and details make executing complex events a natural fit. Shira and Jennifer have worked side by side since 2001 – a marriage in its own right! Shira enjoys spending her down time on the couch and keeping up with her camp, high school and childhood friends. She also has an extensive sneaker collection… go ahead, ask her about it.

What do you love most about weddings?

Watching the dance floor from afar… seeing everyone having fun and worrying about nothing but their dance moves!

If you could plan a party for 20 of your best friends, what milestone would it be for?

Just being ALIVE and healthy! 

What are the top three things that you use in your emergency kit?

Hollywood Fashion Tape, Scissors, Advil.