Today we’d like to introduce you to Janelle Moore
Hi Janelle, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Growing up, I was inspired by my uncle, a chemist for Coca-Cola, which sparked my deep affinity for science. At 18, after being diagnosed with lupus, I turned to biology to better understand and manage my condition. This passion led me to earn my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Biology from Clark Atlanta University, where I focused on prostate cancer research in African American men. I am currently pursuing my PhD at Morehouse School of Medicine, continuing my research in this area.
On February 27, 2021, my husband of ten years passed away suddenly from COVID-19 complications while I was in my first year of a PhD program in microbiology. This loss upended my life, forcing me to redefine myself beyond being a widow and a student. I discovered a creative passion for event planning and administration, which I had always enjoyed through organizing dinner parties for family and friends.
In honor of my husband’s memory, I organized a back-to-school event for 1,500 students in South Fulton County. This event became a turning point, launching my business. The photographer I hired for the event later became my business partner, and together we ventured into wedding planning. My first major project was a wedding at the Waldorf Astoria, planned in just six weeks, marking a pivotal moment in my career.
Since then, my love for wedding planning has grown, and I’ve been consistently booked for various events, from birthdays to business expos. My late husband, Bobby, continues to inspire me, motivating me to succeed both in my PhD studies and as an event planner. This journey has helped me rediscover my identity, realizing that I am not just a widow or a student, but someone deeply passionate about giving back to the community and helping others make their dreams come true.
While my scientific career is my primary focus, a personal loss prompted me to explore wedding and event planning as a creative outlet. The passing of my husband led me to take a year off from my PhD for mental recovery, during which I worked at the CDC and rediscovered a love for event coordination. Organizing weddings became a therapeutic way for me to help others celebrate special moments, offering a fresh perspective on joy and healing. This dual passion for science and event planning not only enriches my life but also enables me to give back to my community in meaningful ways, finding balance between my research and creativity.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road. The journey has been filled with challenges, both personally and professionally. The sudden loss of my husband in 2021 was the most devastating obstacle I faced, and it completely shattered my world. Grieving while also navigating the demands of a PhD program in microbiology created a period of deep emotional turmoil. The weight of loss made it difficult to stay focused, and I struggled to find a sense of purpose beyond my studies.
Balancing my academic responsibilities with the demands of starting a business in event planning was another struggle. Building The Heart of Crystal while pursuing my PhD required time management skills and an ability to juggle multiple roles. There were many sleepless nights, moments of self-doubt, and instances where I felt overwhelmed by the sheer workload.
Additionally, venturing into wedding planning and coordinating events was a steep learning curve. It required me to step outside my comfort zone, especially as a newcomer in an industry that’s competitive and high-pressure. However, despite these struggles, I found strength in my passion for event planning and the support of my community, which kept me going. Over time, I learned to embrace the challenges as opportunities for growth, and now, I am proud of the resilience and success I’ve achieved through perseverance and determination.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in event and wedding planning through my business, *The Heart of Crystal*, where I bring a unique blend of creativity, attention to detail, and a personal touch to every project. My expertise spans a wide range of events, including weddings, birthday parties, corporate functions, and community-driven initiatives. I’m known for my ability to create meaningful and memorable experiences, ensuring every event reflects the client’s vision while also delivering flawless execution.
What sets me apart is my combination of skills and experiences. I balance a rigorous academic background as a PhD student in microbiology with a creative passion for event planning, which gives me a unique perspective on both structure and creativity. My journey, particularly navigating personal loss and using that experience to fuel my business, has instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and resilience that resonates with my clients. I’m able to bring not only my expertise but also my heart into every event I plan, creating lasting memories and connections.
I’m most proud of my ability to balance my academic pursuits while running a successful business, all while maintaining my commitment to giving back to the community. The success of my first major wedding at the Waldorf Astoria, planned in less than six weeks, stands as one of my proudest achievements. It’s a testament to my dedication, creativity, and ability to execute under pressure.
What truly sets me apart is my personal connection with each client, understanding their individual needs, and bringing their dreams to life in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. My journey, filled with both struggles and triumphs, has shaped me into a planner who not only organizes events but also creates experiences that are unforgettable and deeply personal.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
Absolutely, I couldn’t have achieved the success I have without the support and guidance of several key individuals who have played a significant role in my journey, both personally and professionally.
First and foremost, my late husband, Bobby, deserves credit. His love, encouragement, and unwavering belief in my potential were foundational to my strength and perseverance. Even after his passing, his memory continues to inspire me every day, motivating me to keep pushing forward with both my academic and business pursuits.
I also owe a great deal to my mentor, Sharon Ragin, and the team at Soaring Eagle Training and Development. They have been instrumental in providing both financial and emotional support, helping me navigate tough times while encouraging my entrepreneurial spirit. Their guidance in community outreach and event planning has been invaluable, especially as I started coordinating events like the back-to-school drive that led to the launch of *The Heart of Crystal*.
Another pivotal figure was my business partner, LIFTO Visuals, the photographer/videographer I hired for that first major event. Together, we have built a strong foundation for the business. His expertise in visual storytelling complements my event planning skills, and his partnership has opened many doors in the wedding planning industry.
Finally, all my vendors, my clients, teammates, and supporters within the wedding and event planning community deserve much credit. Their trust, loyalty, and willingness to work with me have been essential to my success. Many of them have been vocal cheerleaders, offering not only repeat business but also invaluable referrals. These clients, many of whom have become friends, have helped to shape my reputation as a planner who genuinely cares about delivering memorable and personalized experiences.
Each of these individuals and groups has played a vital role in the success of my business, offering me not just the tools to succeed but the emotional and professional support to navigate challenges and keep striving for excellence. I am incredibly grateful for their contributions to both my personal and business growth.
Pricing:
- Weddings: Full-Service Planning: Includes everything from initial consultation to event execution. Prices typically range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the size and complexity of the wedding. Partial Planning: For couples who have already begun their planning and need help finalizing details, pricing starts at $2,500. Day-of Coordination: For clients who just need someone to oversee the day-of logistics, prices start around $1,500.
- Corporate Events: Pricing for corporate events varies widely based on the scale and needs of the event (e.g., conferences, expos, or business luncheons). Rates generally range from $2,000 to $10,000+.
- Birthday Parties & Private Events: For smaller events like birthday parties or intimate celebrations, pricing starts around $1,000, depending on location, guest count, and services requested.
- Community Events: As part of my mission to give back, I offer discounted or pro-bono services for charity or community-driven events, especially those that align with my values.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://theheartofcrystal.com
- Instagram: @the_heartofcrystal
- Youtube: @theheartofcrystal_llc
Image Credits
Photographer: Ryan Coleman
Instagram: @liftolove
Website: liftovisuals.com
