Today we’d like to introduce you to Ikeira Francis.
Hi Ikeira, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
In 2018, I was working at Walmart in human resources as a training coordinator, where I discovered my passion for event planning.
I was in charge of decorating and designing for every event we had at the store, the different holidays throughout the year, the break room and celebrating all the birthdays and anniversaries for the employees.
I’ve hosted, planned, and designed parties at my home for fun with family and friends but never thought of doing it as a business.
I started my event planning business in April 2020 in Atlanta, GA because I knew how much I loved and enjoyed planning and designing events.
In order to accomplish my goals and broaden my knowledge in the event industry, I attended two mentorship programs known as, the Unstoppable Eventreprenuers and the WOW Academy. My business continues to grow successfully and prosper through passion, drive, confidence, and the support of others.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has been both smooth and a challenge. When I first started, I really didn’t know anything about how to be an event planner and operate my own business. I had to do a lot of research to figure out where to start and that was very frustrating. There was so much information to review, like videos, podcasts, zoom calls, as well as event challenges that I participated in to learn as much as I could. I wasn’t sure what to follow. It was overwhelming at times. Some of my struggles included, trying to figure out who or what would be the best resource to find out exactly what was all involved in event planning and starting a business. I needed to determine if college was necessary, completing a certification or taking a mentorship program.
Although both mentorship programs were invaluable and I learned so much, it was just the beginning. It is still challenging sometimes to get new clients and make connections with different vendors and venues to ensure they are a good fit for my business.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Innovative Functions is an event planning company that creates meaningful moments and beautiful experiences in a variety of social events, including birthdays, baby showers, anniversaries, bridal showers, weddings, holiday functions and more.
We specialize in full event planning, event management and event decor. We take pride in building long-lasting relationships that grow from quality service and attention to detail. At Innovative Function, we promote elegance, luxuriousness, sophistication, and fun.
I’ve had the opportunity to live in many different places, meet new people and be a part of many different cultures. My passion is planning and designing events through my communication, creativeness, design experience and uniqueness to capture the client’s own character and story.
What were you like growing up?
I was a very playful and active child. I played softball, was a cheerleader in middle school and was on the dance team in high school. I have always been athletic and at one point, I wanted to become a gymnast like Dominique Dawes or an ice skater like Tara Lipinsky.
Growing up I had many friends even though having a parent in the military and relocating every 3 years. No matter where we lived, I made friends instantly. I am a very social person with a very friendly personality, and I love meeting new people.
I also love animals and my family always had dogs. Yorkies were our favorite.
I love reading and I am an avid movie fan. Mystery, horror, and romance are my favorite reading genres and Marvel, and horror are my favorite movie genres. With that being said, Halloween is my favorite holiday because I love to dress up and have fun. Every year I host a Halloween party for family and friends. We have a blast!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.innovativefunctions.net/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovative_functions/
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/InnovativeFunctionsLLC
Image Credits:
Photo by LaJoy Photography
