Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashlea Lovely.
Hi Ashlea, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Now you couldn’t tell me that I wasn’t going to be a sportscaster on ESPN or a movie director with Tyler Perry Studios when I graduated from Middle Tennessee State University with my Mass Communications degree in 2008. I was certain I was going to express my love of basketball or basketball movies some way somehow. My interest in weddings started back when I worked in the hospitality industry and got a front-row seat to some of the most beautifully, coordinated events. I mean, I can’t be the only one who watches “The Wedding Planner” every time it comes on television right!? Not only did I find myself thinking about what my dream wedding would one day be but how I could help someone bring their Pinterest board ideas to life.
After I moved to Dallas in 2013, I started assisting with a good friend’s wedding business. A birthday party here, wedding or 2 there, and I essentially caught the wedding planning bug. For the next few years, I began freelancing with other companies and gaining more insight into the Dallas wedding & event industry. Early in 2021, I pondered the idea of working for myself, but I was apprehensive. Even though I was able to book close to 10 weddings in 2021, there was still something holding me back- ME.
Oprah once said, “When you feel that it is time to move on, ask yourself what will moving on from this one thing free you to do? Because by stepping out of the things that do not serve us, we can better live our dreams.” After being at a job for 8 years that was no longer serving me and my creative mind, I decided to turn my part-time passion into my full-time focus.
In March of 2022, Ashlea Chanel Events was rebranded, and we are getting better every day.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey into entrepreneurship has been about as smooth as the drive on I-635 during rush hour traffic! Just when I thought I was making some positive headway into this wedding and event industry, I would face some major roadblock or setback and I would ultimately be back at square one.
I learned to appreciate the personal and professional “No’s” that I have received while on this journey. I used to get so bothered when I would “court” a potential bride (i.e., hours of communication, creating proposals, meetups at venues or bridal shows, etc.) and then finding out that they have chosen another planner. I am still learning that every potential client and business opportunity isn’t meant for Ashlea Chanel Events and that I can’t allow those moments to deter me from doing my best for future clients. Like my favorite rapper Jay-Z said, “On to the next one”.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Ashlea Chanel Events?
Ashlea Chanel Events is a wedding and event company that specializes in coordination (day and month of) as well as full planning. Here at A.C.E, we like to have fun at our events (no uptight planners over here). It’s not uncommon for us to be out on the dance floor salsa dancing with the bride’s abuelito or swag surfing with the rest of the wedding guests.
“What sets A.C.E apart is simple-we love building relationships with my couples. Learning about their love story and how they got on their journey to their special day is key to my success as their planner. I have remained communicative with many of my couples past their wedding day so once you are a part of Ashlea Chanel Events, you are family! I was a bride in September 2021, so I know the emotional rollercoaster they will go through on their journey to their “I Do”. So, if I can intercede on their behalf, I am more than happy to do so. Whether it’s a vendor, bridal party or even those overzealous guests who want to take the smallest things personal, I make sure that no one is taking away from their moment, their day.
“I love when I get positive feedback from my couples, but the ultimate compliment is when I get those parents, siblings, or even guests who recognize the hard work that my team and I have done to make my couples’ wedding day as smooth as possible. Leaving a lasting impression is essential to my personal & professional growth.”
“That Ashlea Chanel Events isn’t just a wedding & event planning business, but that it’s part of a greater community. I am big on supporting my fellow small business owners and social media has made it convenient to like, tag, and share those businesses. Ultimately, that could be the difference in someone growing their business.”
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I love working and collaborating with other business professionals, especially those who have the same passion and drive that I do. I come across a lot of industry professionals that I would not have met if it wasn’t for the networking opportunities that I have had. I know it’s cliche but “Teamwork makes the dreamwork” is the truth!
And if you or someone you know is looking for a planner for their wedding day, please have them reach out to us here at Ashlea Chanel Events! I will be the one sipping my green apple Gatorade on wedding day!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ashleachanelevents.net/
- Instagram: instagram.com/ashlea.chanel.events
Image Credits
JoDi Washington
