Today we’d like to introduce you to Erika Petersen
Hi Erika, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve been in the event industry for 19 years, planning everything from luxury weddings to large-scale themed experiences—but it wasn’t until recently that I found my true calling in creating immersive fantasy events. Growing up as the granddaughter and daughter of authors, storytelling was always in my blood. I was raised to understand the power of imagination, emotion, and connection—and those threads have followed me into every project I’ve taken on.
Alluxia Events was born from a desire to create something truly magical: a space where fantasy lovers could not just attend an event, but step into the stories they adore. But at the heart of Alluxia isn’t just the décor or the dragons—it’s the community. Community building has been a lifelong passion of mine, and it’s the core of everything we do. So many of our guests come to their first event alone, maybe nervous or unsure of what to expect, and leave with new best friends, chosen family, and a shared sense of belonging that extends far beyond the event weekend.
We’ve created a space where people feel safe to show up as their most authentic, whimsical, passionate selves—and that’s the real magic. Every time someone tells me Alluxia helped them make lasting friendships or feel like they truly belonged, I know we’re doing something special.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like any worthwhile adventure, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road—but every bump has helped shape Alluxia into what it is today.
Starting a company rooted in fantasy and immersive experiences means we’re doing something a little outside the norm, and that can come with its own unique challenges. From navigating venue limitations that don’t always align with our vision, to managing the logistics of large-scale events with theatrical elements, we’ve had to get creative and think on our feet constantly.
One of the biggest challenges has been educating venues and vendors on what we do—because Alluxia isn’t just another themed party. It’s a full-scale, immersive experience with actors, storylines, effects, and a guest community that expects to feel like they’ve stepped into another world. Convincing venues to take a chance on something so different can be tricky, especially when dealing with fire performers, fog machines, or 10-foot dragons walking the halls! Because we’re doing something unique, we don’t have a clear roadmap to follow—we’re building it as we go, and that can feel both exciting and overwhelming.
There’s also the emotional weight that comes with being a business owner in such a deeply personal space. These events mean so much to our guests, and we carry the responsibility of creating something that lives up to their dreams. That’s a beautiful pressure—but pressure nonetheless.
But through it all, our community and team have been the steady force that keeps us going. The passion our guests bring, the heartfelt feedback we receive, and the connections we see forming at every event make every challenge worth it.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Alluxia Events?
Alluxia Events is an immersive fantasy event company that brings the worlds readers love to life through high-end, story-driven experiences. We specialize in multi-day events that blend the magic of fantasy literature with the elegance of luxury event design. Think: immersive markets with bookish vendors, cast interactions with beloved characters, interactive story moments, incredible dinner shows and formal fantasy balls where guests come dressed in gowns and armor, dancing under enchanted skies.
What sets us apart is the level of detail, heart, and intentionality we pour into every element. We’re not just throwing themed parties—we’re building entire worlds. From realistic dragon encounters and glowing dragon eggs to custom seating chart videos that feel like cinematic trailers, every touchpoint is designed to transport our guests.
We’re known for creating a space where people feel seen and celebrated. Whether you’re a long-time book lover, a cosplayer, or someone who’s just discovering fantasy for the first time, Alluxia is a place where you can show up exactly as you are and be welcomed into a community that gets you. Many of our guests come solo, but leave with lifelong friends. That sense of belonging is what we’re most proud of as a brand.
We also work closely with authors and fandoms to ensure everything we do is respectful, celebratory, and aligned with the stories our audience loves. We’re passionate about raising the bar in the event space for fantasy lovers—offering them something elevated, immersive, and unforgettable.
So whether someone’s looking to attend a grand fantasy ball, shop magical vendors, or just find their found family in a world of wonder, Alluxia offers a one-of-a-kind experience they’ll carry with them long after the event ends.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Alluxia wouldn’t be what it is without the incredible people who’ve supported it from the very beginning. Our team is made up of passionate, dedicated individuals—many of them volunteers—who believe deeply in the magic we’re creating and give their time and talents to help bring it to life.
At the core of our success is our incredible community of attendees. Some believed in us from the very first TikTok video announcing this wild idea, and they’ve been with us ever since—sharing their experiences, spreading the word, and helping to shape the warm, welcoming energy that Alluxia has become known for. Without them, we wouldn’t have a purpose. They are the heart of everything we do.
I’m also incredibly lucky to have the support of my husband, who has been one of my biggest cheerleaders. As a contractor, he’s handled countless behind-the-scenes logistics most people never see—and he’s always trusted my vision, even when it sounded a little over the top. From building elaborate set pieces to getting our Alluxian Dragon across the country in just three days, he’s been the quiet force making it all happen. The standing joke is, “If I can dream it, he can build it,” and that has absolutely proven true.
I’m especially grateful to a few close friends who have poured their hearts into Alluxia. Marian Harwell has truly become my second brain—she’s just as filled with bold, creative ideas, and her presence has made this journey more fun, more inspired, and more possible. And Jennings McMahen, who believed in Alluxia from the very beginning, has taken charge of our lighting design and played a crucial role in transforming our most ambitious visions into stunning realities.
We’ve also had the privilege of collaborating with some incredibly talented local creatives. Claire and Rob from That First Moment have been all in since day one—offering their insight, encouragement, and endless creativity. Their support has left a lasting impact, and we’re so grateful to have them as part of our story.
Finally, to the amazing vendors, authors, and fellow event professionals who believed in us and our vision from the start: thank you. Your partnership, passion, and shared commitment to creating something truly extraordinary means the world to us.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.alluxiaevents.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alluxiafantasyevents/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/alluxiaevents/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@alluxiafantasyevents
Image Credits
That First Moment
