Today we’d like to introduce you to Tara Melvin.
Tara, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
People often ask how I ended up as an event planner and the answer is simple. I was born this way. Growing up, I was “that kid” in my neighborhood who invited everyone to gather at my house (never with my parent’s permission) for various activities that I conjured in my head. Fast forward to my college years at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, I was still the “go-to-girl” for all things social. My first large fête, I planned was my college graduation with over 150 enthusiastic students in attendance and it was executed to perfection. Continuing into adulthood, I planned numerous occasions for friends and then began to realize this was the career for me!
Fifteen years and continuing, my company has evolved into an award-winning boutique event firm in the Washington DC metro area. My experience as a professional allows me to connect with people and create moments of a lifetime that you will cherish forever. My passion for the beauty of creating fabulous moments yields to the fulfillment of the hearts of those who have hired me, however, it is my fierce attention to detail and flawless execution that is noticed and provokes a resounding BRAVO! by all engaged in the experience. Always.
Today, with a plethora of events under my belt ranging from weddings, corporate galas, conference, social events and more, my brand is the beat of my heart. In addition, over the past five years, I have produced (and also the founder) of The Signature CEO Conference; a platform curated to bring forth the business intelligence creative entrepreneurs desire to maintain and sustain their businesses. Lastly, The Executive Mentor Program is embarking on its fourth year of educating aspiring planners in a six-month curriculum of event planning acumen.
Has it been a smooth road?
I am fortunate to have a mindset that is made of steel! But don’t get me wrong I do encounter challenges that temporarily have me flustered or bewildered, however, I don’t take the setback negatively rather I continue to push forward and learn from the unlikely outcome that has been set before me. For those just starting their journey in this industry, I encourage (6) things:
-take your time to develop your brand to get it right
-failure is not fatal it is your feedback to achieve success
-know your financial numbers for your business
-never stop learning
-don’t stop yourself from achieving your goals
-pray for God’s guidance
We’d love to hear more about Perfect Planning Events & The Signature C.E.O Conference.
I am the “Olivia Pope” of event planning based in the Washington, DC area. From creating high-profile extravagant celebrations to charming, romantic, gatherings with only close friends and family, I get it handled – illustrating that what lies within your imagination is never beyond my capability. And, nothing escapes my attentive eye.
I am humbled and most proud of my ability to want to give back to others who seek to learn this business. I am proud of the two vehicles in which I can pour into professional either through The Executive Mentor Program or The Signature C.E.O Conference. My heart gains a sense of happiness when I see others receive that aha moment through either of these programs, and I enjoy witnessing others succeed.
So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
The opportunities for the advancement of women whether it be in my industry or another is infinite! The mindset and the grit of women is unparalleled and it is nothing that women can’t accomplish! Now are there roadblocks – yes there are….but that is when the unity of women together that rises the elevation of strength and determination to succeed.
Pricing:
- Creative Entrepreneurs can register for The Signature C.E.O Conference. The investment is $2100. Details are found at www.thesignatureceo.com.
- Planner seeking a formal mentor program, can enroll in my next series that begins on March 30th. For details they can go to my website and click on “mentoring” – www.perfectplanningbytara.com. The investment is $1900 for a 7-month mentor program that includes 14-two hour sessions each.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.perfectplanningbytara.com also www.thesignatureceo.com
- Phone: 5714024594
- Email: tara@perfectplanningbytara.com
- Instagram: @perfectplanning AND @signatureceo
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perfectplanningeventsdc/ AND https://www.facebook.com/thesignatureceo/
Image Credit:
Bonnie Sen Photography, Ana Isabel Photography, Joshua Dwain Photography, Julie Napear Photography
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