Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alicia Mae, founder of ILE Events, located in Summit, NJ, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
ILE Events is a concierge wedding planning and design company that honors culture with modern style. We assist couples in filtering endless options to create a wedding that represents them through design, logistics, and concierge services. The lives of people throughout history and the stories they tell have inspired our approach to produce clients' weddings and events.
Tell us about yourself
Being on maternity leave with my son started the idea of my desire to combine my passion for serving others with my experience in hospitality. I've never found any career more fulfilling than planning weddings and events (it's pretty close to motherhood - shhhh, don't tell my two kids!) Incorporating our clients' traditions, culture, and lifestyle in detail, such as a dish using Grandma's recipe, the aroma of their favorite fragrance, or wearing a wardrobe to pay homage to their culture, motivates me to continue serving our clients.
At ILE Events, we say, "a wedding should be more of a vibe than a theme," to reflect the client as two people becoming one to begin their own legacy.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
We were named Top Wedding Planners in America by Brides Magazine 2x, and I am always so happy and honored to be recognized for all the work we do for our couples by their loved ones.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Execution of all the things and hiring experts in the areas you're not strong in. Once you understand to have success/growth, you need a team of experts to execute the various components of running a business. You'll be on your way to the next levels in your journey as a business owner.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Intern, shadow, and experience the industry you are thinking of starting your business. Get to know the behind-the-scenes of the industry you are going to enter.
- Do not be afraid to introduce new ways of doing things. As you gain knowledge of your industry, maintain a healthy balance of doing the industry standard and introducing new/efficient practices.
- Network, Network, Network! A lot happens because someone mentions you in a room you're not in. Connections are the key to life and essential in business. Having genuine relationships will take you far.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.ileevents.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ileweddings
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ileevents/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ileevents
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicia-mae/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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