1. What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your job and why?
For me, the most challenging aspect of running a business is time management. It’s hard sometimes to step away when you always have access to your email and the internet, but I’ve learned that it’s also important to give yourself some (deserved) time off. The most rewarding part of my job is watching guests at an event have an absolute blast and knowing that I’m capturing important memories.
2. Who do you look up to or admire in business and why?
When I lived in California briefly, I had a boss who was very inspirational to me. She and her husband started a corporate wellness company, and she was also the author of some best-selling nutritional books. On top of her achievements she had an incredible energy that she brought to work every day and was a fantastic leader. She inspired me to want to start my own business.
3. What has been the high point of your career so far?
Working at iconic Madison venues. It’s been so cool being on the “other side” as a vendor and enjoying the time spent in some beautiful places. I’ve also loved meeting so many new people in the area. I’m not originally from Madison so it’s been nice expanding my network here.
4. Thinking back on your career, what advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
I would tell myself to think bigger and outside the box. That you don’t have to work a 9–5 job to be successful, and that it is possible to work for yourself, do something you love and have a good time doing. Of course, it is hard work, but work hard enough and eventually you will see the pay off.
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5. What would you say are the best things about living and working in Dane County?
My favorite thing about living here is that it feels like a smaller city and is very manageable, but at the same time offers so much more than a small town. I live on the west side and really love it, but I just need to drive 15 minutes downtown and can catch a Broadway show or concert, eat at an award-winning restaurant, rent a boat — I could keep going! The best thing about working here is the support of the community; I feel like small businesses can really thrive here!
6. Do you have any secret talents or abilities that people would be surprised to discover?
I don’t think I have any real secret talent, but I like to pretend I’m an amazing dancer sometimes when out on the town. If there is good music and a dance floor, I will be on it. One of my pet peeves at weddings is when the dance floor is empty and no one is dancing! I’m usually one of the last ones, if not the last out there!
7. What are your guilty pleasures?
My guilty pleasure is doing nothing on a day off. I really do feel guilty about it and feel like I should be keeping myself busy. But it’s hard to get up and do something when you have your precious puppy on your lap and either a great show to watch or book to read!
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