Our Team

Bryan Rafanelli is the CEO and Chief Creative Officer of Rafanelli Events, a globally recognized leader in event planning and experiential design. With nearly 30 years of expertise, Bryan has redefined the industry through his visionary approach, meticulous attention to detail, and ability to craft extraordinary experiences across a range of sectors—including luxury weddings, corporate gatherings, non-profit fundraisers, and large-scale sporting events. His work has been featured in VOGUE, Harper’s Bazaar, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Departures, earning him recognition as one of the world’s top event planners.

From intimate celebrations to global spectacles, Bryan and his team specialize in creating seamless, immersive experiences that leave lasting impressions. Whether designing a once-in-a-lifetime wedding, an exclusive hospitality experience for a major sporting event, or a high-profile brand activation, Rafanelli Events is known for elevating moments into unforgettable milestones.

Beyond event production, Bryan is a respected entrepreneur and thought leader, known for building a company that blends creativity with business intelligence. His expertise extends beyond design, offering strategic insights that enhance brand visibility, strengthen partnerships, and create impactful moments on a global stage.

Deborah Farley is the President of Rafanelli Events and has been a key leader within the company since 2005. In partnership with founder Bryan Rafanelli, she helps shape the firm’s strategic vision, overseeing business operations, client relationships, marketing, and new business development.

Deborah plays a central role in driving growth and expanding the company’s reach across sectors—from high-profile social celebrations to major corporate and nonprofit events. She is known for her deep understanding of client needs and her ability to lead teams with clarity, creativity, and purpose.

Prior to Rafanelli Events, Deborah held leadership roles in marketing, public relations, and advertising, working with globally recognized brands including American Express, General Motors, and Continental Airlines.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication and an MBA from Boston College’s Carroll School of Management. Based in Boston, Deborah is passionate about delivering exceptional experiences and fostering meaningful partnerships across every facet of the business.

Michelle Mutter is the Managing Director at Rafanelli Events, where she brings more than a decade of experience producing large-scale, high-touch events for private, nonprofit, and institutional clients. Since joining the firm, she has led hundreds of events—from intimate dinners with heads of state to celebrity weddings and major fundraising galas.

Michelle is known for her sharp creative instincts, operational precision, and ability to translate a client’s vision into seamless, memorable experiences. In addition to leading event production, she contributes to the firm’s strategic planning and new business efforts.

Prior to Rafanelli, Michelle worked as a Project Director at David Stark Design in New York City, and previously produced concerts, festivals, and music industry events across North America, Europe, and Asia.

She holds a dual degree from the Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. Michelle is based in New York and remains deeply involved in both creative execution and client experience at every level.