Meet the Joy Maker: Charles East
- Pure Joy
- Jul 22
- 3 min read
Design & Production Coordinator
We’re excited to announce that Charlie has stepped into the role of Design and Production Coordinator! Charlie started Pure Joy four years ago as bartender, whipping up our signature cocktails and bringing his warm, creative energy to every celebration. Recently, he’s become an indispensable part of our team, making it an easy decision to have him leading on location and taking on operations back at Pure Joy headquarters — from the warehouse and van maintenance to designing custom décor for each unique event.
Charlie’s eye for detail, creativity, and easygoing nature make him such a joy to work with. He’s the first to jump in and help, tackle any surprises with a smile, and take on event décor ideas to wow everyone. Charlie puts his heart into everything he does and we’re so lucky to have him as part of the core Pure Joy team!
How long have you been in hospitality & where have you honed your skills? Before Pure Joy, I worked at Casablanca here in Santa Barbara as a bartender for about 5 years.
What is the culture at Pure Joy?
From my experience, the culture at Pure Joy is all about delivering the perfect event for clients through teamwork. It simply wouldn't be possible to put on events with the high standards Pure Joy has without such a strong team. Everyone is always ready to jump in wherever needed and that strong team feeling makes everyone better and really feel capable of excellence.
What do you contribute to events (beyond truly exceptional cuisine 😉)?
I started as a server/bartender at events and over the last few months have been in training to become a supervisor. I also work behind the scenes at the warehouse preparing for events. I assist in designing the aesthetics for the events, loading and unloading for them, and maintenance on the building and fleet of vehicles. I pride myself on being the kind of team member that will jump in to help in any situation, whether it be at events or in the kitchen helping to prep.
How long have you been with Pure Joy and what’s your favorite part of your work? Share your experience with Pure Joy.
I have been working with Pure Joy for 4 years come this September. I started as a server/bartender for events and have recently taken on more responsibility working at Pure Joy HQ preparing for events.
My favorite part of my work is the creativity I get to have. I get to transform the clients' ideas into something beautiful that they can remember for a lifetime. I know the responsibility that comes with it and take great pride in it.
If you were a cocktail or food dish, what would you be and why?
I think I’d be any sort of BBQ. To me, BBQ is at its heart is simple/hardworking food but with plenty of room to be done creatively and differently. I consider myself someone who values work ethic and simplicity but I greatly enjoy being creative and trying new things.
What do you do for fun?
I enjoy being outdoors as much as possible. Anything from hiking,camping to lazy beach days, and everything in between. I love having big meals with friends and family, and am a sucker for a good roadtrip!
What else do you want our readers to know about you?
I’m originally from the east coast, New Jersey. Growing up my family spent many summers in Santa Barbara visiting my cousins. It always felt like paradise so I moved here over ten years ago just like I always dreamed of as a child. I feel very lucky I get to work at a company like Pure Joy where we help people make memories in such a special place.
