Jen Gayden shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Jen, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
Honestly, what I’m most proud of building are the relationships behind the scenes.
I’ve had the opportunity to work with so many amazing clients and connect with fellow business owners in a really meaningful way—supporting each other, collaborating, and growing together. Those relationships are such a big part of why I love what I do.
I’m also really proud that my business allows me to give back, especially through supporting Stepping Stones Foundation, which is a local charity that’s close to my heart. Events come and go, but the relationships you build along the way are what really last.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Jen Gayden, and I’m the owner of Vivian James Events. My work is rooted in creativity, community, and connection, and I’ve been grateful to partner with incredible local businesses like Saddlerock Wine and Beer Co, Two Brothers Winery, The Kindred-Keller, and Salt and Light Collective, along with so many wonderful local clients.
I truly love event planning and feel honored to serve as a wedding coordinator. Flowers are at the heart of what I do—I create custom florals and teach floral workshops that allow people to connect, learn, and create together. I’m also a long-time photographer and enjoy capturing meaningful moments, from bluebonnet sessions to private shoots and holiday cards.
Giving back is incredibly important to me, and I’m honored to serve as co-chair of The Great Gala benefiting Stepping Stones Foundation. Above all, I strive to be warm and approachable, and I’m grateful to use my creativity to support and celebrate others.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
Growing up, I was really anxious about public speaking.
I would get so stressed and worried anytime I had to speak in front of people, and I never imagined that feeling would change.
Now, I regularly address large groups—whether I’m leading events or teaching floral workshops—and it still surprises me. I never would’ve dreamed I’d feel this comfortable doing something that once caused so much stress. It’s been a really powerful reminder of how much we can grow beyond what once felt overwhelming.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self that there will be really good times and really hard times—and both are part of the journey.
I’d gently remind her to try to live in the present and enjoy the moment more. I’ve always been very future-oriented, which has its positives, but it can also make you miss what’s happening right in front of you. I’d encourage her to slow down, take it in, and trust that things will unfold as they’re meant to. Truthfully, I am still working on this today!
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely—the public version of me is the real me.
I like to joke that I’m on “the 4th floor,” meaning my 40s, and with that has come a lot of confidence and clarity. I know who I am, I’m aware of my strengths and weaknesses, and I value my relationships more than anything.
I don’t have the time, energy, or interest in being fake. I’m naturally kind and a people-pleaser, but I’ve also learned how important it is to set boundaries when I need to. At this stage of life, I’m not interested in pretending to be anyone other than exactly who I am.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say that I valued quality time with my family and friends and showed up as a good mom, wife, daughter, sister, friend, and business owner.
That I took chances, built a business from my passions, and said yes to opportunities when they came my way. And I hope they remember me as someone who was curious, traveled often, and really tried to experience as much of the world—and life—as possible.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vivianjamesevents.com
- Instagram: @vivianjamesevents
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/?trk=guest_homepage-basic_google-one-tap-submit
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VivianJamesEvents
Image Credits
Image credits: Jen, Vivian James Events
