Jerrica’s Story

The weddings and events industry isn’t for everyone. It means long days on your feet, busy weekends, late nights, and the energy required to welcome hundreds of guests with a smile. Yet despite the challenges, we wouldn’t trade it for anything.

There’s something incredibly rewarding about helping create meaningful experiences and unforgettable memories. Every wedding, conference, fundraiser, and celebration has a story, and we’re honored to play a small role in bringing those moments to life.

So what inspired us to pursue careers in the event planning industry? Today, here’s Jerrica’s story.

A Lifelong Love of Weddings

My love for weddings started early. At just two years old, I was a flower girl in my aunt and uncle’s wedding. I adored my dress, gloves, hat, and basket and still love looking back at the photos from that day.

Growing up in a large extended family meant there was almost always a wedding on the calendar. By the time I reached college, I had attended more weddings than I could possibly count.

I was fascinated by every detail: the flowers, the wedding cake, the decorations, and the magic of the first dance. I laughed at toasts that were probably meant for adults, drank more Shirley Temples than I should have, and never missed an opportunity to dance with my dad.

Those celebrations sparked something in me long before I realized event planning could become a career.

The Wedding That Changed Everything

The first time I was truly involved in planning a wedding was when my Aunt Tina got married in the early 2000s. I was 15 years old and thrilled to be included. I went dress shopping with her, helped source catering staff for the reception, and assisted with ceremony setup by lighting candles at the beginning of the service.

Most importantly, I got a behind-the-scenes look at everything that goes into creating a wedding day.

I still remember flipping through her wedding planning binder, filled with ideas, inspiration, and carefully organized decisions. It felt like magic.

That night, I watched an entire dance floor packed with family and friends singing and dancing to “Shout.” The room was filled with laughter, joy, and celebration. I was exhausted by the end of the night. And completely hooked.

Finding My Path in Hospitality

When I started college, I thought my future was in advertising. I imagined creating memorable marketing campaigns and commercials. That plan didn’t last long.

Before my first semester was over, I was meeting with my advisor to discuss transferring into a hospitality program. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Through classes in floral design, catering, event planning, and even wine education, I discovered a field that combined creativity, organization, problem-solving, and people. All things I loved.
Every semester confirmed that I was exactly where I was supposed to be.

More Than a Career

Today, I still feel the same excitement I felt attending weddings as a child. Whether I’m helping a couple plan their wedding day, coordinating a nonprofit gala, or assisting with a corporate event, I love seeing months of planning come together into a memorable experience for guests.

The hours can be long, and the work can be demanding, but there’s nothing quite like watching people celebrate life’s biggest moments. For me, that’s what makes a career in hospitality and event planning worth it.