Today we’d like to introduce you to Theresa Ford.
Hi Theresa, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I have always enjoyed attending weddings and watching wedding tv shows. I have watched everything from David Tutera’s Celebrations to Say Yes to The Dress, I love to see the planning process, final results, the decorations and how it makes the clients feel on their big day. In 2016, when I saw a Wedding Planner certification course offered by the Bridal Society I was excited by the opportunity. It was a two day course. Our instructor was so knowledgeable and I learned so much. I completed the course and received my certificate. With my Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Master’s degree in Human Resource Management, I felt like I could definitely start my own Event Planning business because this was something that I have always dreamed of doing. From there, I picked my company name and Simply Elegant Events was started. I have been in business for 9 years and I have had a couple of my weddings featured.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
When I created Simply Elegant Events in 2016, I had no idea of the adventure and accomplishments that would come with starting an event planning business. Several years later the business continues to grow and bring joy and happiness to all of the celebrations we are honored to be part of. However, It definitely was not a smooth road. I had to establish myself by getting my name out there. I participated in many bridal shows and wedding expos. I connected with other vendors. I offered my services free for my first couple of events. I passed out my business card to everyone that I talked to. Also, I successfully hosted two of my own wedding expos. It was a lot of hard work but also I had fun and enjoyed doing them. I loved meeting other vendors and connecting with them. Hosting my own wedding expo was a business goal on my list and I was so proud of myself for accomplishing that goal. I hope to do some more wedding expos in the future. Eventually, business picked up for me. I got more clients. Now, I get most of my clients by referrals and repeat clients.
We’ve been impressed with Simply Elegant Events, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Simply Elegant Events is a full-service wedding planning, event coordination and design company. The services offered are: wedding planning, wedding coordination, social events planning (birthday parties, anniversary parties, baby showers, etc.), corporate events planning, design and decorations from table décor to backdrops and balloon displays, and for the DIYers we also have rental items such as table linens, chair covers, charger plates, and a variety of vases and centerpieces. We pride ourselves in making you the STAR of the most memorable day of your life. We create the ultimate experience for you by taking away the stress that comes with planning any event. We collaborate with vendors to cover various aspects of your vision. We do all the hard work so you don’t have to. Something that helps to set me apart from others is that I am a Certified Wedding and Event Planner and Certified Wedding Designer through the CWP Society, the world’s leading wedding planning certification program. I love being in an industry that celebrates moments of happiness and love for others. With my detail-oriented eye and great work ethic, I strive to make sure that both the planning process AND the event day are incredible, memorable experiences. Whether I am there right from the beginning or jumping in when you need a hand, I will provide support every step of the way.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I like the local markets, museums, scenic parks and variety of unique neighborhoods. I also like the iconic foods such as blue crabs and crab cakes.
What I like least is the traffic. The commutes can be long.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.simplyelegantevts.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/simplyelegantevts/
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/simplyelegantevts/
- Other: TikTok: @seeventsandrentals
