Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Sims.
Hi Crystal, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I sometimes hate admitting this, but I absolutely loved the pandemic. It gave me so much time to actually sit down and breathe. I loved being outside in open parks and trying new things. One day, as my sister and her friend were out at Piedmont Park, they saw a group having a picnic, and it caught their eye. They immediately called me and said they knew I’d be great at hosting lux picnics. I couldn’t disagree, and I thought it was such a cute idea. I always turn EVERYTHING into an event anyway so why not, right? I took a stimulus check, bought the necessary start-up items, and fell in love. It didn’t take long to branch into private events and weddings. I found a new love: making personalized treats and favors. Personalization is EVERYTHING and I hope to really grow my business doing all of the things I love. I don’t want to put myself in a box, ya know?
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Smooth has never been my way. As weird as it sounds, I sort of thrive in chaos. Honestly, it’s been an interesting and difficult ride. By the time I was 21, I had 3 children, had had a stroke, and was divorced. Talk about a way to transition into adulthood, right? Naturally, I had to listen to ongoing (and unwanted) comments about my poor choices and lots of doubts about if I’d be able to handle it all. Well, at the moment, I decided that my entire identity was to be the best mother anyone had ever been. And I must say, all 3 kids are teens now, athletic, have great grades, are leaders, active in Church, working, and wonderful role models. Along the way, I was able to get 2 degrees and have amazing jobs: one with the state and now a black woman in tech. And I’ve done it all as gracefully as I could possibly do it. I’m a giver naturally, I am great at pouring into and supporting others. This problem is that I never really learned or poured into me. Now that my kids are 14, 16, and 18, I am just now getting the chance to do things for me. I have always been great at planning/hosting events. When the pandemic began, I decided it was time to do what I love and turn it into a business, and the rest is history. The business aspect isn’t easy, though. I haven’t been as consistent as I’d like. I don’t promote on social media like I should. And it’s because I’m my biggest critic. Imposter syndrome is so real. But look now….as soon as I decided to trust God and start this reinvention of myself, you reached out. I think that’s confirmation I’m on the right track.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
So, my business is Janay Soiree. It began as a pop-up lux picnic service and has evolved into a full event planning/hosting service. I do all events from baby showers to weddings. I am looking to branch into micro weddings for elopements as well. In addition to planning services, I specialize in decor and personalization of favors and treats. I love being given a theme and a budget and allowing my creativity to flow. If you can dream it, I am convinced it can be done. What sets me apart is that I take characteristics and personality traits of each individual client and allow that to be incorporated into the event. Each event vibe will match the client vibe. No event is the same. It’s refreshing.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Do not grow weary in good doing, for in due season you will reap if you do not give up” Galatians 6:9. That’s the lesson. It’s easy to get frustrated when things aren’t going your way. It’s saddening to see others “have it all” while you’re still on the journey, especially when they seemingly aren’t good people or haven’t put in the work… But I keep that scripture in my heart. The journey is the most important part of it all, honestly. And also, on the flip side, that same scripture can check me: I WILL reap, so I need to be sewing all the good I can. Secondly, embrace your village. You can’t do it alone. I’m blessed to have a village supporting me personally and professionally & I recommend everyone to connect with people and create your own village.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: instagram.com/janaysoiree
Image Credits
Joyafulnoisephotography
