I stepped off the bus in the middle of Colombia, unsure of what to expect. This was at the end of my backpacking journey through South America in 2016. We had only been writing to agree upon my visit.

Before I left Sweden, my neighbor had told me: “If you go to Colombia, you have to visit my brother.” So of course I did.

Rivera, a small town a few hours south of Bogotá. For most people it’s an unheard of little village. But for me, it's where I first experienced true hospitality.

Jorge was 75. I was 20, with a backpack and broken Spanish. From the first moment, when he picked me up at that bus station, he welcomed me into his home as if I were family. He introduced me to his friends and colleagues, proudly showed me around town, and had prepared small details after calling his sister to find out what Swedes like (like brewed coffee for breakfast). In just four days, I went from a complete stranger to feeling like family.

Jorge unfortunately passed away four years later in 2020. I am very glad I followed my neighbor’s advice, and got to meet Jorge in Rivera. The way he welcomed me was extraordinary yet authentic, and something that since then has stayed with me. Not the kind of hospitality you find in a five-star hotel, rehearsed, polished, and performed. But the kind that comes from someone who simply, genuinely cares.

Memories can never fully be shared to someone who did not experience it firsthand. You can show pictures, or tell stories, but the intangible feelings can’t be transmitted. By creating Rivera Moments, it is a way for me to let you experience the same genuine hospitality that I was once served. Great events are never just about beautiful settings, flawless logistics, or carefully planned details. They are about how you make people feel.

My name is Joel Samuelsson. I am originally from Sweden and have been living in Barcelona since 2022. After more than nine years in the events industry, I felt it was time to create something of my own.

Welcome to Rivera Moments!

After years of working with events, and with people, I have come to understand that this is my passion. Building something of my own – where the two meet – has for a long time been the goal.

With Rivera Moments, this is finally a reality that I am very glad to share with you. I am excited for all the moments we will experience together with clients, partners, suppliers, and especially with all the guests.

Rivera Moments is the result of my deep obsession with details, combined with genuine interest in people. When choosing us for your future events, we will make sure you feel like I did back in Rivera 2016 – welcomed.