Names are important!

I am an event planner to the core of my soul. It took me a long time to figure out not just what I am good at but what I am also passionate about. Once I figured that out, I had to figure out how to convert passion into a revenue stream that would allow me to explore this industry and take care of my family at the same time. That is always the goal right?

I’ve been at this career choice for over 15 years. I live and breathe the world of events. I moved from being a weekend warrior, planning events for family and friends to the corporate event planner for several employers to stepping out on faith and becoming a full-time independent event manager. I’ve enjoyed every moment, but working in this industry, as with any industry has had its highs and lows. This is one of those jobs that many people don’t know why they need it, until they need it and then sometimes its too late. I’ve gotten used to that.

This is one of those career choices that if you’re not careful, you can burn out quickly. When I started out, I was trying to be everything to everybody and It really drained my creative “super-powers”. I battled the “champagne taste with beer money” client, the “won’t get out the way” client, the “I can do it better client”, the client with the overbearing board of directors and the micromanaging client for years before I found my sweet spot.

It was during those times that I really started to reevaluate my passion. I struggled with direction, I was lonely, I worked long hours and there really wasn’t anywhere I could just vent with people who understood my stress.  I remember those days when I just wanted to give up but I knew I had to press forward to meet my goals.

“Success seems to be connected with action. Successful people keep moving. They make mistakes but they don’t quit.” – Conrad Hilton

Enter The E-Vent, a lovely play on our industry keyword and a perfect name for what I am trying to accomplish with this blog.   Simply put, This blog is a creative space for creative people to know that you are not alone in this vast field of event planning.  It’s purpose is to use my journey to encourage you, share some of my “ah ha” moments and maybe even a tip or two that I discovered along the way.  I am creative, so there is no telling what you’ll find here but hopefully it will inspire you toward the relentless pursuit of your passion…whatever they are!

As an event professional, you already know this work is not for the squeamish or faint of heart. You’ve got to have a “front of the house” persona with “back of the house” skills to get the job done—right now.  Its a delicate balancing act and you’ve got to want to be here.  I’m here to encourage you to love the work you’ve chosen to do. The E-Vent will help you remember, “Good fortune is what happens when opportunity meets with planning.” – Thomas Edison.

Take a breath, blow it out and now go be great!

Yours Truly,

LaWanda