Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Jenelle.
Hi Jessica, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey as a wedding planner started as a simple favor for a close friend’s family member. She shared that her family was feeling overwhelmed and stressed with the wedding planning process and asked if I could step in and help because I had always been known as the organized friend. What started as a favor quickly became something so much more. I fell in love with the entire process; the organization, the logistics, the creativity, the little details, and most importantly the people I had the opportunity to meet along the way.
That same year, I decided to take a leap and applied for an events position with a catering company. I walked into the interview feeling confident and convinced that I had sealed the deal, only to be ghosted afterward. At the time, it was disappointing, but looking back, I realize that rejection was actually redirection. Instead of allowing that experience to discourage me, it fueled my motivation to create something of my own. I decided to take a chance on myself and launch my own wedding planning business.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of bringing countless wedding & elopements to life while building relationships with amazing couples and industry professionals, and creating experiences that go far beyond a wedding day. My business has taken me places I never dreamed I would go across the US to Europe.
Beyond the travel, the beautiful venues, and the celebrations, what means the most to me is the impact I get to make. I get to be the person couples trust during one of the most important seasons of their lives. I get to take the stress and uncertainty and turn it into calmness, organization, and an experience they can truly enjoy.
Eight years later, I’m incredibly grateful that the opportunity I thought I missed allowed me to live a life I never imagined having in the best way possible. What started as a favor became my passion, my career, and a business that continues to open doors I never knew existed.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely not! While the journey has been incredibly rewarding, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Building a business from the ground up came with a lot of challenges, especially in the beginning. There were times when I questioned whether I was making the right decision, struggled with finding consistent clients, being a one person
show and had to learn the business side of entrepreneurship while also learning how to be a better wedding planner. There was trial and error and lots of lessons to be learned through the years.
Learning the business side of things meant learning marketing, finances, contracts, client management, networking, branding, and how to navigate the many unexpected situations that come with the wedding industry on top of dealing with some really strong personalities while planning.
Every challenge has taught me something and has shaped me to be the planner who I am today.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m known for being calm under pressure while moving mountains for my clients. No matter what comes my way, I’m able to stay focused, think quickly, and find solutions without allowing the stress to affect the overall wedding planning experience. My clients can trust that I’ll handle any behind the scenes challenges, advocate for their vision.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I read a lot of self-care books that help me stay grounded when things are heavy. I am also big on pottery and adult coloring books to help regulate my nervous system.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jessicajenelle.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicajevents
