Today we’d like to introduce you to Shantrice Cooper-Mckoy.
Hi Shantrice, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
My venture into event planning started out as a hobby. It was my sister’s fourteenth birthday party and I wanted to make it special and memorable. I remember ordering items from Party City & Walmart, renting a limo, watching YouTube video’s on doing balloon décor and booking entertainment for her big day. I was so excited; I think more than my sister. I actually enjoyed the thrill of planning the event. My sister’s birthday party was a success and I started helping out my friends and family with their small events.
Ultimately, I planned my first fundraiser event at The Children’s Guild in 2014. It was a Fashion Show and a Talent Showcase for the youth. I invited youth from the Guild’s group homes and the community to attend my event. The youth showcased their talents, and we celebrated them and encouraged them to follow their talents. All proceeds raised from the fundraiser event, I donated back to the Children’s Guild, which supported the youth in foster care and group homes. This was near and dear to my heart, as I too grew up in foster care and was adopted at age 15.
My love for event planning quickly blossomed and I transitioned into planning more events throughout the DMV area. Today, I operate my event planning business full-time alongside my career in working in City Government. I love what I do, and I am passionate about producing beautiful events and providing exquisite service to my clients.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There were some struggles along the way. There were a few times when I became discouraged during this journey. I felt like I wasn’t on the level of my peers that were in the industry, I didn’t have all the resources to be successful, and I wasn’t doing my best.
In 2017, I took a break from event planning due to the sudden death of my younger brother due to gun violence. I fell into a deep depression and no longer had the energy to plan events. After seeking therapy, lots of prayers, and support from my friends and family, I was able to work through the depression and get back to a new version of myself, and resumed planning events.
We’ve been impressed with EBS 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?
EBS Events is one of Maryland’s elite designing companies specializing in providing our clients with the best experience. Whether it be a corporate event, A birthday celebration, or something as delicate as a wedding. We do it all with a taste of quality.
Our team of professionals is highly organized, and detail-oriented and helps to create beautiful and memorable experiences for every event. Our clients are our #1 Priority. We think of everything so that you don’t have to. Each of our client events are unique and tailored to their taste and vision.
Services We Offer: Full-Service Planning – Day of Event Coordinator -Design Service -Ballon Artistry.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
To all new, current, & future entrepreneurs, never give up on your dreams and passions. No matter how gleam it looks or feels. There will be struggles along the way. You may feel discouraged or want to give up.
Just remember, there is a light at the end of the tunnel and there is no reward without risk. There is no greater feeling than doing something you love, do not let your passion go to waste.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ebseventplanning.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebseventplanning/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ebseventplanning/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shantrice-cooper-mckoy-04593864
Image Credits
Doreen Lucas Wedding Solutions, YRN Designs Photography, and Brogden & Rice Team
