Growing up, I always had a creative edge. I was always interested in things that allowed me to express myself creatively. Little did I know, that passion to create would someday allow me to pursue my dreams. My creative journey started in college when I began taking on interior decor clients and began to build a small clientele. It was an interior decor client that led to my first decor gig, which led to where I am today. I think my story is one that demonstrates that no encounter in life is a mistake, and even experiences we don't understand at the time can be moves towards opportunities that will help to unlock your true destiny, so don't take any opportunity for granted and always give your all to whatever it is you're doing. If that interior decor client hadn't trusted me enough to push me to take on assisting them with that event, I may not be where I am today.
What ignited the spark in you to start a new business venture or to make significant changes in an existing business? How did the idea for your business come about?
One of the main reasons I decided to push for my dream was the lack of passion I had for what I was doing. While I was thankful for my job in corporate America, I knew it wasn't my forever. There was a deeper passion brewing, and eventually I decided to take the leap of faith to pursue wedding and events full time to see where it would take me. I'm so thankful that I trusted my God given instinct to pursue my passion.
What were the biggest initial hurdles to building your business and how did you overcome them?
My initial hurdle was mainly fear. The fear of what could happen... and then over time I woke and realized just that, what could happen if I trusted my God given talents enough. And here I am today.
What books are you currently reading? And your recommendation for entrepreneurs to read?
I'm currently reading Preston Bailey's "Doing Business With Our Hearts". It's a great read, especially for those in the wedding and special events industry.
Did you ever deal with contention from your family and friends concerning your entrepreneurial pursuits? How did you handle it? What would you do differently in hindsight?
I'm lucky that my family and friends have always supported my dream to create. In some cases, it was because of the encouragement and support of family and friends that I kept pushing forward. I'm so blessed to have the support system that I do.
What would you say was the single most influential factor in your business success?
Faith and Belief. My relationship with God has been a huge factor in my professional success. It's through my relationship with God that I've maintained the confidence to believe in myself enough to trust my gut and make moves toward my dreams.
What do you know today that you wish you would have known when you first got started as an entrepreneur?
The power of relationships building. I was so afraid of what others in my industry would think about me when I first started. But over time, I've learned the value in letting my wall down, and building true lasting business relationships that have led to so many positive outcomes with my business. Im many cases, it's all about who you know.
What advice would you give to an upcoming entrepreneur locally and internationally?
BELIEVE IN YOU! You've got what it takes to be whatever it is you put your mind to being. Wake up in the morning, and tell yourself who you are and what you can achieve until you believe it. And then go out and show the world, give others no option but to believe you through your results!
