Darryl Scotti
Founder
Founded by Darryl Scotti in 1986 from a two-bedroom apartment, Darryl Scotti Events grew from an entrepreneurial vision into a multi-million-dollar event and hospitality company serving corporate and private clients throughout Northern California. Over nearly four decades, the company built a family of successful event brands, including The Great Event, Bay Area Picnic Planners, and 4S Casino Party, delivering everything from large-scale corporate celebrations and company picnics to themed entertainment and casino events.
Today, that legacy continues into a new generation under the leadership of Derek Mox and Tom Short, who carry forward the experience, relationships, and commitment to service that built the company while shaping its future.
From a two-bedroom apartment to a thriving family of brands, the mission remains the same: bring people together and create experiences they’ll remember.
Derek Mox
President and CEO
With more than 23 years in the event industry, Derek Mox brings deep experience, steady leadership, and a passion for creating memorable guest experiences. He is known for his hands-on, solutions-oriented approach and his ability to keep events running smoothly from planning through execution. A graduate of the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, Derek combines culinary training with event expertise to enhance food service, event flow, and the overall client and guest experience. His attention to detail, operational insight, and calm, dependable presence make him an integral part of delivering the high-quality events The Great Event is known for. Outside of work, Derek enjoys surfing and skiing with his family.
Tom Short
Director of Operations
Tom was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, he attended California State University, Chico, earning a degree in Recreation, Hospitality, and Event Management. During his time in Chico, he worked with the science museum and the Boys & Girls Club, where he played a key role in organizing fundraisers and events. These early experiences helped build a strong foundation in event coordination and logistics. Known for his charisma and natural ability to connect with people, Tom is often the voice of the company, answering client calls and serving as the MC at many events. His energy and presence help create experiences that feel seamless, engaging, and memorable. After graduating, Tom returned to San Jose and joined The Great Event in 2018 and now serves as Director of Operations, overseeing the successful execution of events and ensuring exceptional client experiences. Outside of work, he enjoys spending the holidays with family and staying active through a variety of outdoor sports.
Madeline Miller
Director of Brand & Marketing
Madeline was born and raised in the Bay Area, where an appreciation for creativity, connection, and memorable experiences helped shape her passion for brand development and strategic communication. With a natural eye for presentation and storytelling, she leads brand messaging, content development, and website strategy across the company and its family of brands, ensuring a cohesive and elevated presence at every touchpoint. As Director of Brand & Marketing for The Great Event, her work helps shape the company’s voice, strengthen its market presence, and support continued growth through thoughtful, strategic communication. Outside of work, Madeline enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring new restaurants, and finding inspiration through fashion, design, and the creative energy of the Bay Area.
Greg Campbell
Warehouse & Operations Manager
Anthony Rodriguez
Administrative Coordinator & Event Associate
