Today we’d like to introduce you to Jenna Leigh Councill.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
About five years ago, one of my good friends asked me to sing a special song for her wedding as she walked down the aisle. I knew the song well and practiced with my friend, who played the violin. That day, I remember being so nervous. I had gone in so confident that the words would freely flow out of my mouth that I didn’t even have sheet music or lyrics or anything. Nervously, as the wedding began, I remember digging through my bag to find a crumbled up piece of paper to scribble down what words I could remember, as they all seemed to be escaping my brain with each passing minute. When we started the song, however, everything fell into place. The bridal party marched down the aisle with ease and then, right after the big chorus started, in walks the bride. It was an amazing privilege to get to sing a song praising God for who He is as my friend walked down the aisle to stand with her future husband. From that point on, I fell in love with playing music at wedding ceremonies.
After that, I began being asked to play at friends’ weddings. It always looked different. Sometimes I would be playing guitar and singing as the bride entered. Other times, I would get the chance to sing a worship song as the couple prayed together at the altar. Regardless, each time I was able to bring music into a wedding ceremony, it gave me such joy!
From that point on, I knew I wanted to pursue this further. I was looking for a job a few months ago and finally decided to focus my time on launching my business (woot-woot); creating a website, business cards, and filming videos to promote what kind of songs I was able to do well.
Since I launched this business in September of 2018, it has been a slow-moving process, but totally worth it! I love when I am able to bring a small gift to a couple who I truly care about. The gift of marriage is something that should be held in the most precious sight and being able to make a small contribution to that task has truly been amazing.
Great, 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?
It has definitely not been a smooth road with kickstarting my business. Figuring out how to best market myself has probably been the biggest challenge. A lot of new life opportunities have come up as well, in which I am so extremely grateful for, that has put my business on the back burner. Starting something on your own is hard, but with the right support system, you will at least figure out how it is you want to go about developing your dream for the future.
I would say my biggest piece of advice would be to stop second-guessing yourself. God has given us unique talents and gifts. Figure out what your dreams are and take the next small step in getting there. Sometimes, we don’t even know what are dreams actually are until we try something that pushes us past our comfort zones. Find people who will encourage you along the way. Try something! and if it doesn’t work and you have regrets, at least you took a chance on your dream. I feel like I sound like one of those old motivational posters that used to hang up in my elementary school, but it’s true! Don’t try because you are afraid.
What should we know about Jenna Leigh Councill Music? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Wedding ceremony singing is amazing in the sense that each wedding is so unique. I offer options of singing/playing guitar for prelude music, playing during the processionals (bridal party and bridal), and also playing a mid-ceremony song (usually a worship song during a couple/family prayer time). A couple could choose one option or all three!
I have also had the privilege of bringing some of my friends with me who play various instruments depending on what that couple wants musically.
I think one amazing thing about what I do is that most of the weddings I’ve played it, I have known the couple getting married (obviously not a requirement). This is a HUGE honor that I do not take lightly being asked to provide music during a wedding ceremony. I love that I have been given the chance to be a part of so many peoples’ special day in this way.
Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
I don’t have a specific wedding singer mentor, but I do have key people who have supported me like crazy. One of my good friends, Michelle, has taught me how to harness my entrepreneurial spirit and take next steps. She is always encouraging me to stick with it. She also helps me plan out and think through what my dreams and aspirations actually are. She has been a huge inspiration for what it looks like to be a working mama who loves her family well and also loves what she does with a passion.
My parents have also been the most supportive people on the planet. I could not ask for a better cheering section in my life.
My boyfriend, Brock, is yet another example of someone who I know has my back and is on my team rooting for me.
Contact Info:
- Website: jennaleighcouncillmusic.com
- Email: jennaleighsings@gmail.com
Image Credit:
Katie Martin Photography (personal photo-yellow dress)
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