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As one of the leading event planning firms in the US, LaJoy Plans delivers high-quality, stellar services to mission-focused organizations and individuals, in almost every major city in the US.

21/05/2022

Mamma saw this day coming...

If you know me you know that I have a unique tone of voice but what you don't know is that I was made fun of because of it. Don't worry I no longer care but stick with me as I share a story. Anyway here are some classics over my lifetime, some of which I still hear today. Sadly.

Why do you make your voice sound like that?...

You sound white. Whew there's not enough space to unpack this one.

You sound like a kid...

If you talk like that, no one will take you seriously...

But the one I remember the most was from a person who suggested to my mother that I get vocal coaching to change my voice. If you know my mother, you know that conversation did not end well for the other person.

My mamma looked at her then very insecure daughter and said "Melva this is how God made you, your voice is your calling card and one day people will want to hear what you say. Don't you ever change your voice..."

And tommorow I heard to Puerto Rico for . Don't forget to say hello and yes I really do laugh and smile that big😁.

This is your PSA that destiny cannot be denied and mothers know things. Grateful for this season in my life. Happy Saturday!

20/05/2022

For your garden party you'll need...

⚘Delicious bites and exceptional service from

⚘Quality entertainment by

⚘As pictured gorgeous flowers by

⚘One phone call from mother nature

And a dose of joy from and myself. Bon week-end!
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19/05/2022

Watch her work...

Forecast says its going to be a gorgeous day to host an outdoor petite soirees at a venue that's a first time experience for us. Per usual, we have some of our favorite friendors with Beyond the Blackout roots because supporting diverse businesses is always our jam.

Check out stories to see more.

Allons-y! (Lets go in French).
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18/05/2022

You just stand...

Last week I had the pleasure of being interviewed by as a of abuse and sexual trauma.

And ironically last night coming back from an event I heard a song that I use to play often during my journey. It's from called Stand. Here's a snippet from the song.

"Tell me, what do you give when you've given your all
And it seems like you can't make it through?

Tell me, how do you handle the guilt of your past?
Tell me, how do you deal with the shame?
And how can you smile while your heart has been broken
And filled with pain, filled with pain?

You just stand..."

I don't know who this is for but the reality is we are all surviving from something and trust me I FULLY understand the internal narrative that tells you to give up but beyond that narrative is unlimited possibility, peace and purpose.

You just stand...

If you want to hear more about my journey decades in the making, listen to the full interview linked in my bio. I'm rooting for you. Happy Wednesday!

17/05/2022

Buffalo...

"One goes to the unprotected-those precisely, who needs the laws protection most!...

Ask the wretched how they fare in the halls of justice, and then you will know, not whether or not the country is just, but whether or not it has any love for justice, or any concept of it...

It is certain, in any case, that ignorance allied with power, is the most ferocious enemy justice can have." James Baldwin

This image is scenes from a walk/demonstration alongside a conference we planned earlier this year. This interfaith group gathered and prayed for justice on a variety of issues months before this most recent incident...

Yet, here we are. Sadly, here we are...and all I'm left with is that we need to love more than we hate, heal rather than hurt from our own place of insecurity or worse ignorance based not in reality.

Simply put, stop hate. Seriously. That is all. Guard your heart and protect your peace.
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16/05/2022

Puerto Rico you ready?

I'm most certainly ready to take the stage next Monday, May 23 and talk about diversity, equity and events...

For my presentation expect real talk, storytelling, and yes a call to action for all because there is still alot of work to do and I am here for it. Also, it's important to me that you get what you came for so if you have a question, drop it in the comments.

Rumor has it that thousands of you have already registered to attend and I'm so grateful but don't worry I've got the registration link in my bio so you still have time to join us virtually and earn 10 CMP credits.

Puerto Rico see you soon and
for giving space for this topic, thank you! Tremendous virtual hugs to the entire team there but especially the newlywed Michela, Erica, Sarah, and Christina. Let's do this. Happy Monday friends.
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13/05/2022

Looking back, I have FOMO...

It's true I do have FOMO. You see I'm Fullfilled On My Own...Truly.

When I consider, how did I get here? I realize I have my journey to thank. I'm thankful for the highs, disappointments, misteps, losses, lessons, laughter and definitely my love. I see it all, the messy and the message and when I look back all I can say is thank you...

The key to having this type of FOMO is you don't stay in the past beyond any healing time but rather you use the past to propel you forward and remain humble. Oh and if you're smart you use the past to remind you who you are and then you don't have the other kind of FOMO because you understand you are exactly where you are supposed to be...

So this message just like last Friday is dedicated to my Dad Melvin who never cared about whether he was 'in or out' or 'this or that.' Melvin lived and died with a spirit of being fulfilled which is why I believe he was at peace in the end...

I'll close with this. Earlier this week, I recorded a podcast and said I feel free and so my hope for everyone is that you embrace this type of FOMO and when you look back you're fullfilled by the story of your life, that you delight in your unique purpose, and you chase nothing or no one because the little things are enough...

I'm Emmanuel’s wife...

I'm Melvin and Joyce's daughter...

I'm a friend who loves big that happens to be currently delighting in my purpose, called to serve survivors, and committed to seeing the first ALZ survivor in my lifetime.

Have a great weekend and don't forget to scroll to see what I was looking at last Friday.
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12/05/2022

Hey what's that sound?

You guessed it. It's unapologetically one of my favorite creatives. The beautiful and soothing sounds from the best friend, female owned powerhouse duo Lauren and Rebecca of Lucy Black Entertainment].

For this event, guests were greeted by the backdrop and then turned the corner to hear the quartet which perfectly set the tone for a heartfelt evening.

Recently I read a quote that says " He who listens to music frightens ills..." and actually when it comes to ALZ and dementia there is some truth to this statement. Here's your fact for today.

Studies have shown that music reduces agitation and improves behavioral outbursts in Alzheimer's patients. And personally I can tell you that when my father was dying, no longer saying a word or opening his eyes, my mom sang to him. His eyes would flicker and I just know he heard mamma and found comfort in that.

So while we wait to , remember music is therapy.

Meanwhile I'm saying thank you Lucy Black Entertainment] for using your talents on this special evening. Happy Thursday!
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11/05/2022

I am cared for and my trust is with them...

◾One of them brought me banana bread because I have a terrible habit of not eating on long events days...

◾One of them held my hand as my Dad's image popped on screen during the video beautifully edited by ...

◾One of them shares a history of loss with dementia like me and gave me advice the next day when I called even though they went to sleep just a few hours prior...

◾All of them started at 1pm and got home at 3:30am. Yes 14+ hours. When I offered to let some or all go early and I would stay because they had already worked so hard, they all stayed together until the end laughing beyond the fatigue and allowed me sleep since I started at 8:00am and had a long drive to mom...

My team works from their heart and that's why I trust that even if I'm not around, the event is in good hands because they operate as one cohesive unit and care deeply.

And speaking of care, here's your ALZ fact. 10 million Americans are Alzheimer's caregivers and the vast majority are women. My mom and I were those women. For us, it was an honor of our lives but I assure you it was not easy.

If I wasn't surrounded by these gracious humans, my business would not exist because I can't do this work alone and there were times in recent years where I was emotionally depleted. These beautiful people hold space for me to be a business owner with at times complex family obligations. Actually we hold space for eachother.

So yes, I am cared for and I put my trust in them. Love you team.
p.s. To volunteer with
contact .
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10/05/2022

Les fleurs sont belles.

With a name like Trebella Events it only seemed appropriate to begin in French. Shawn and her team understood the assignment for the gala and curated not one, not two but three different floral looks to take this event to the next level. And how did her team handle the dock challenges? They rolled up their sleeves and loaded everything in from the side of the road in the rain.

Shawn was such a gift during this process and no matter the hour, no matter the challenge, she never wavered in her commitment to deliver creative, elegant excellence. Also, at the end of the night she looked me straight on and said "My Dad would be proud." And while I know my Dad looks on me from above, here's your ALZ fact for the day.

1 in 3 seniors dies from Alzheimer's or other related dementia which means it kills more people than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined but you can be informed and join the fight. Locally talk with .

Meanwhile just like Shawn and the entire Trebella team use your gifts for good. When you serve, abundance in your life and soul follows. Happy Tuesday!
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Florals: Trebellaevents
Lighting:

09/05/2022

Invest in your hello...

For the next few days, I'm going to brag on a few of the vendors who worked tirelessly on last weeks gala and most importantly, I'm going to give you facts about .

This backdrop was beautifully executed by . To inspire Garrette, I sent her a draft clip of the video and I produced. I told her that this wall was going to be the first statement of the event and it had to say I see you, represent warmth, and honor the fight so many of us are in. Due to her stellar talent, Garrette is beyond booked, yet, she took her time to collaborate with me directly and this installation was perfection.

Beyond the look, Garrette and her team dealt graciously with a blocked loading dock where there was only one elevator working. She loaded every single element piece by piece in the rain and didn't miss a beat. I tried to help but she didn't need me because she's a pro and strong as all get out.

So let this be a reminder to invest in how you say hello. It matters. Since my mom could not attend, I asked her what do you see mom? She said, " I see hope in this piece and whoever did this has heart for healing..." And guess what hope is what we need because more than 6 million people are living with Alzheimer's disease. In 2050, this number is expected to double.

Garrette I'm sending you the biggest virtual hug. You are magic and for bringing sunshine literally in the rain, I say thank you💜.

Now, if you are fired up to find a cure just like me, get to know , talk to or donate and yes we will talk about this more later . Happy Monday friends and don't forget to spread light in someone's rainy day this week. .
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Backdrop:
Lighting:

05/05/2022

Midday margarita reminder.

No better place than on . Enjoy and yes, the Legrands will be there tonight!
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04/05/2022

Gala History...

What I love about my business is how multi-dimensional it is. This business was based on equity and organizational conferences but I've always had a sweet spot for galas. If memory serves me correctly Juls and I did our first gala conference combo (I don't reccomend that) in NYC 17 years ago in NYC at the iconic Gotham Hall with an extraordinary emcee and gentleman in Don Cheadle. Fast forward to modern day and while the has evolved, there are three things I think remain the same in gala design.

◽Design with intention. From the lighting, tablescape, even to the speaker selection. Everything needs to align directly to the mission. When something is off brand, the audience feels it.

◽Have impact but do it swiftly. So I've had to be the person more than once to hit play on the music and encourage someone to end their speech. Galas especially fundraising galas that are successful have concise, sound bite worthy speeches that connect people to the cause. Save the lectures.

◽People may not remember the food but guess what they do remember? The cash bar. This may not be a popular view but I've personally managed galas with a ticket price of $250 to $1,000 per person and I'm begging you please have open bar and if you can't do the full bar, do beer and wine.

Bonus observation: In this new normal, people do want to know your expectations with Covid. We have two galas in the October and November and guess what they have already drafted their Covid policies.

You know that event 17 years ago seems like yesterday and I've e come a long way. I'm grateful my passion remains and my skill set is on another level. Grateful for my career journey. Let's do this. Happy Wednesday!
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01/05/2022

Do me a favor, just wait...

Yesterday I was talking to a dear friend whose in the midst of a major career change and she said to me "Melva, I don't have any work past the summer and I thought I watched Melva fight and recover and so it seems possible..." She is very kind to give me that type of credit but the reality is we all have the ability to show up for the life that hasn't yet arrived but yes, in my experience we do have to wait...

Oh my goodness did I have to wait. I waited for my business to mature and then prayed it would survive Covid thankfully I am still standing; I was placed in a healing season for years so I could be a wife but before then I made a million misteps trying to rush and be married; I waited for inner peace about being infertile so I could become a good mentor and I even had to get comfortable with 'friends of the moment' leaving my life so I could invest in my real ones. And I'd love to tell you I waited for a few months but no oh no in some instances I waited for decades. Seriously.

Waiting is not for the faint at heart so in my experience, you can't or shouldn't wait alone because you don't always have it together because I know I surely didn't. So here's my point.

If you are waiting, keep being patient, life will and can exceed your dreams...

If you waited and are in your winning season, share your entire story to help someone because I assure you somebody needs to hear how you came up, when you were humbled...real talk and vulnerability are assets.

As for me, this week I hope you live in authencity, live boldly, dream all the things and when you need too yes wait. I assure you this life is worth it. Happy Sunday!
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29/04/2022

This picture sums up the week. That is all. TGIF.

27/04/2022

Best view or should I say Vue...

It seems like yesterday when the LaJoy team essentially lived for a five day event in February. Actually I was there so much I was once offered the employee menu😆.

Today we are back for a three day event with some good stuff planned including being nestled in the Sky Room for a reception with an another amazing set by directed by with some photobooth magic. Excited Shawn and Carnisa.

If you don't know the renovated Hotel Washington, I highly reccomend you include it in your next venue search. When you do, ask for Michael Garber, a sales professional dream.Oh and if you eat in the lobby bar, ask for Omar and tell him Ms. Melva sent you.

Follow along. Happy Wednesday.
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25/04/2022

Smile despite...

Yesterday I was talking to a dear friend of mine, a real one, a dude so different than me but yet our hearts are similar. I love him big. Our lives have evolved. He shut down one biz, started another, and purchased a new home. And he reminded me, we joked about how I never saw marriage or alot of other things in my future. He was there when I felt low...

I'm reminded by something my Granny Ola use to say (she was so smart and sassy). She said "Smile to spit on sorrow..."

I guess what I'm trying to say is this. The smile you see on my face, the loudness of my laughter if you heard me in person are all real but what's also real and true is that this joy is hard won. I am not an overnight story, I'm more like a I pressed through story. There are many times where when I had nothing else but mamma, daddy, and my wits and yet, I smiled. I smiled not because things were perfect but I guess I always found a way to believe that better was on the way.

So this week when things get hard or you're tired or someone really worked your nerves "Smile and spit on sorrow, sadness or whatever is attempting to block you."

As the song goes you do look better when you smile. Love you granny from above. Happy Monday everyone!
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24/04/2022

Are you excited?

Yesterday I was supporting a dear friends event and inevitably the lessons of Covid came up. I think I said something like " I hope we kept some of the lessons" and this particular vendor said " Yea... we started out that way with real good energy but I think we lost our way"...She went on to say that " We, including planners forget to be kind..." Is she is right I wondered? So I started thinking about it and remembered these recent things.

▪️A venue partner told me that a planner reported her to a corporate office when she didn't respond to her email in two days. Guess what? She was out unexpectedly for emergency surgery...

▪️At an event (and knows this to be true), an attendee got in my face, screaming, spitting, and almost cussing because he was hungry and agitated and I was just there to buffer his frustration. Guess what? By the end he apologized...

▪️We've personally reached out to friendors for recent proposals and guess what? We don't hear back for weeks if at all. Now we don't yell, we move on, and wish them well...

To make sense of all of this, here's what I've come up with.

If you're reading this you've lived through the pandemic but what that also means is that we are collectively living beyond trauma; we are trying to socialize again (I can't tell you how many times I hear from people on I have to wear clothing again).

From my own personal experience, processing trauma is difficult but let's try something on as an industry. Before you get frustrated that someone hasn't responded, check in with them and then conduct the business. When I've checked in on people, I've heard stories of anxiety, burnout, and I've seen tears. On the flip side, I've seen people thrilled and beyond grateful to be working.

Let's not forget that so many of us were not working not that long ago. Oh and as I often quote my granny she would say in her Southern drawl "Don't be slick because your stumble will hit hard..." Simply put, she meant always be kind otherwise you will be humbled...

That's my two cents but if you have any thoughts, comment below. Spread kindness and enjoy your Sunday!
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21/04/2022

Everyone is not ready...

Hey friends. I've posted this before but it's timely as the world makes decisions about masks, I need my fellow to know that everyone is not ready to get up close and personal which is why I'm resharing this resource for guests to identify their comfort level with physical interaction. For our LaJoy clients here is what we are seeing.

1. Clients from now until October 2022 are asking for proof of vaccination. I'll know today if our November groups will also require this.

2. Our event next week is requiring masks and daily tests.

3. The definition of what it means to be vaccinated varies between shots only to shot and booster.

Oh and in yesterday's poll in my stories over 1,000 of you say your still masked. So yes have your event, make it amazing BUT also meet people where they are. I feel like the LaJoy team are experts in Covid friendly events so if ever you want to talk, DM me. Happy Thursday!
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20/04/2022

But wait, have we met?

Allow me to introduce myself...

I'm Melva LaJoy Legrand, Founder of LaJoy Plans, DC-based events firm. LaJoy designs occasions for mission focused organizations and select individuals nationwide. I'm proud of us and thankfully I don't do this work alone. Love you team...

CT born but DC raised me. I'm a prayer warrior, domestic abuse/sexual assault survivor turned advocate with proud volunteer in honor of my late father Melvin with to find a cure to dementia who is a proud Ward 5 resident, enjoys French fries, date nights , culinary traveling adventures with my husband Emmanuel, writing, mentoring, and seeing people win. I try to honor people struggling with depression or trauma by telling my story because giving up is not an option... and .

I speak a bit of French but talk alot of joy. This page is a hate-free zone. Period. You can expect a fusion of my life, lessons learned, and work so if your into positivity, laughter,food, beautiful things, storytelling, and growth then you've come to the right place. Oh and this page is all real talk, no chaser but I try to convey things in a warm manner.

The very real joy you see is a daily choice I've made after pulling myself out of some very real struggles. I hope you stay for the journey. Feel free to introduce yourself in the chat and tell me what brings you joy because joy in everything is what keeps me going.

It is nice to officially meet all of you.Let's grow together. Happy Wednesday!
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LaJoy Wardrobe & Styling:
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16/04/2022

Tomorrow....

Becoming Legrand was worth the wait. Grateful.
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15/04/2022

A cette époque, l'année dernière...

One year anniversary is almost here. Grateful.
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13/04/2022

Allow me to introduce...

Samentha (call her Sam) Moore. Chances are if you've been on my page for a little while you've witnessed my adventures with Sam😆. Sam is our bilingual, pageant winner, fashion moment stealer, who is now a two time published author. Oh and if you're feeling the teams pics she styled us from head to toe.

Sam's planning style I'm crediting to her Haitian roots which is a nice mixture of clarity (yes she asks allll the questions) paired with a pop of boldness to make your event unique but always refined.

Sam never misses an opportunity to worship, eat a good meal, laugh uncontrollaby, and her Orange Theory workouts. Oh and count on her to never eva nurse a drink. I mean that sincerely. Sante!

But beyond the fun stuff, I continue to think her most treasured position is being a mother to Ava who will one day be president or whatever she wants to be.

Sam is warm but protective, listens but doesn't take on anyone's stuff (read that again) and once she chooses you, loyalty is how she lives. I've decided that on the team Sam is our warrior, prayer warrior that is and she keeps us in her hearts on a daily.

So I've got light, nourishment, and a prayer warriors spirit on the team. Feeling very blessed. Adore you Sam. Love you LaJoy.
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11/04/2022

And sometimes it's best to pause for a moment and just dance. I can't say we were particularly coordinated but I can assure you we thought we nailed our routine😆.Have a great start to your week. Happy Monday!
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10/04/2022

And remember these things...

Recently I was talking to someone about personal development and you know how these conversations go "I want this or that" or " I'm not getting my dream thing" or "Why isn't this happening..." and I assured them to trust the process but then something funny happened a few days later where I was asking, no correction demanding of a vendor that does work for me "I want this or that" "Why isn't this happening?" and then I said "I've failed." It was not my best moment. So after I got lost, I reminded myself of these lessons.

▪️Failure is necessary but rather than declare "I failed" perhaps I should be on the lookout at the lesson or the larger picture. My past history tells me that a failure means a shift is coming soon.

▪️Growth is not easy no matter how much work you've done. I've done alot of work, decades of work, I'm sure I've launched a few therapist into private practice given my devotion to them😄. Yet I still struggle with things oh and by the way everyone does. My current struggle is about body which is a reflection for another day.

▪️The dream is right now. If things aren't working, I do think there is value to self evaluation where you ask this question "What have I said about myself lately?" When I said "I'm not worth much" alot of pain, some of my own choosing followed. Yet, when I started to say "I'm worth everything, all the things" a life renaissance happened.

▪️Perfection is not real (kinda like believing I look like this picture everyday😆) so why not focus on purpose instead. I think perfection chases and it's too worried about other people and being seen. I have to imagine that's exhausting. Purpose living is peace.

Now that I'm reminded, I'm going to keep journaling, make some apologies, strive to live in purpose, celebrate one year married later this week😉, and try to go back to bed. Life is happening, stay open to the journey.
Portrait:
MUA:
Hair:

09/04/2022

Get lost.

Yesterday a few of my meetings got canceled, three to be exact with messages that read like this "Melva I'm sorry but I've been feeling exhausted all week and need to reset, can we reschedule?"

The answer was YES and take care of you but guess what? I also need the same reset because my body is telling me recovery is the only thing that matters. I know what you're thinking the event boom is here but my business coach said to me this "Either reset now or be forced to reset longer because you'll have no choice." So I'm going to get lost today and I hope you'll find time to do the same for yourself.

Meanwhile enjoy this pic which is just one view of the gardens at Versailles. Another great place to explore. Bon weekend!

07/04/2022

Lighting matters.

I don't know who this is for but to my fellow your conference needs lighting and I'm not just talking about a stage wash. As someone whose managed over 300+ conferences I can tell you the impact of lighting never fails. Here are a few reasons why.

▫️Lighting keeps your audience engaged in your conference when you set different looks.

▫️Lighting provides a great opportunity to articulate and/or highlight your brand.

▫️Since we know hybrid events are going to be around, great lighting translates well to your virtual audience.

▫️And for those of you who want content for yourself or the event host, great lighting sets your photographer up for success.

Good lighting is a skill, it's an investment and no, you can't just wing it so please be sure to partner with a lighting expert like we did. These two looks were created by . Both on brand, both exceptional. Drop in the comments which you prefer.

As for me, I'm off to plan some of our upcoming events and yes, lighting magic is happening big time. Happy Thursday.
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06/04/2022

Have you met Diana?

Diana Lu that is. Diana is such a LaJoy treasure and I'm not afraid to admit she's waaaaaay smarter than me. On the LaJoy team if you need something researched and then implemented with precision she's your girl. Oh but don't let the smirk fool you because Diana is also an accomplished songwriter and queen of the one liners that makes you laugh from the belly. She's witty, brilliant, talented, and exudes warmth. She is the LaJoy reservoir. She goes with the flow, is always consistent, and to be in her presence is truly a source of nourishment.

Yes, I love her and I'm so thankful that she chooses me. Do me a favor show Diana some love and let's all agree she's working this look. Happy Wednesday!
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LaJoy Wardrobe and Styling:
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05/04/2022

Boom. Boom. Boom.

Yes its true that the event industry is in a full boom which means this is a great time for learning which I've captured in this week's blog titled "Event Industry Boom." Here's a snapshot to what I'm seeing.

1. Venues are different in staff and service. Some people talk about the labor shortage but I think there is a quality labor shortage. Do you agree?

2. Scope of work officially includes more. You will need to explain more, you will need to tap into your intellectual property, and you will extend more emotional capital. Everyone is working more and differently.

3. Having comprehensive kick off meetings has never been more important. If you want to be set up for success discuss about roles and post event deliverables often.

What I truly believe is that event boom does not have to mean event burnout.

The boom has arrived and personally, I'm here for it. Enjoy the blog linked in my bio and share your thoughts in the comments.Happy Tuesday!
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Videos

You just stand... Last week I had the pleasure of being interviewed by @touchysubspod as a #survivor of abuse and sexual trauma. And ironically last night coming back from an event I heard a song that I use to play often during my journey. It's from @donmac6453 called Stand. Here's a snippet from the song. "Tell me, what do you give when you've given your all And it seems like you can't make it through? Tell me, how do you handle the guilt of your past? Tell me, how do you deal with the shame? And how can you smile while your heart has been broken And filled with pain, filled with pain? You just stand..." I don't know who this is for but the reality is we are all surviving from something and trust me I FULLY understand the internal narrative that tells you to give up but beyond that narrative is unlimited possibility, peace and purpose. You just stand... If you want to hear more about my journey decades in the making, listen to the full interview linked in my bio. I'm rooting for you. Happy Wednesday!

End of year sweetness... A few weeks ago I said to a trusted mentor of over a decade, "Can you believe my year is ending up like this? Can you believe this is my life?" She's said, "Well Melva you've never given up hope, never so yea I can believe this is your life..." In a year where we started with next to no events ended with... 28 events 5 films produced Epic conclusion to Beyond the Blackout Countless script and ghost writing projects I did not do this alone. This year, correction my life is a result of prayer warriors like my mamma, granny and Dad who look on me from above. It's the loving support from my husband. It's that can't quit, won't quit relentless work ethic gifted to me by my ancestors. It's the result of countless loooong nights with the LaJoy team, a group that really loves eachother unapologetically and unconditionally and yes, it is most certainly hope in things unseen. As a girl who use to do the most humbling jobs and survived trauma what I know to be true is that it's not how you start, it's how you finish and trust me, I'm just getting restarted. Thank you 2021. Daddy, I miss you severly but I'm gonna be alright. Grateful. Graphic: @jennyrosecreative Photo credits: @anaisabelphotography and @toridelphotography

I am very late in posting this but the message was too important for a rushed post... First I want to thank @renaromano for the forum of hope she's built for #survivors like myself and so many others. I reccomend you follow her and listen to her podcast. You can hear our discussion in my bio. Second, as I close my first week ever #workingfromparis I am in awe. My view has expanded and while this week was challenging with five events on East Coast time and @iamsam_22 had to talk me through some things, I am in the midst of a thriving season... So in my humble opinion, trauma is not the end of the story, it's a story that requires healing, community, and so much more but it does not get to decide your destiny. Period. And as Paris sits as my backdrop this I know to be true. Blessings everyone. Have a great weekend!

What I know for sure is that every story has a purpose... I am excited to announce that LaJoy Plans is diving fully into storytelling. I've been honored to publicly speak about the industry and living beyond trauma but now I am more actively seeking clients who want their stories told in ways that inspire. I've been writing since the age of 7 and in this season I've been behind the scenes, ghost writing and telling stories for all types of people and organizations. I've learned how to write in another person's voice authentically and I'm loving it. To celebrate this work, @jennyrosecreative refreshed the website so take a look. We are event experts. We are storytellers. We are rooted in joy. New chapter loading. Happy Tuesday!

Seventeen days until my birthday and what I know is that I'm not the same... In life I am proud to be Emmanuel’s wife... In work, I've expanded the team, delved into new and different projects and welcome new clients thankfully... I am blessed but if I'm being honest part of not being the same is that I've been tested. I've been humbled and I've been way out of my comfort zone. My body and heart have ached more than once.I lost my Dad, I have a dear friend who lost someone to suicide because the weight of this new world was too much, I've seen people get divorced and then there's COVID. Yes, it is alot... So here's your weekly reminder that before you work on that proposal, cross the next thing off your list, try this on. Check on at least one person daily without an agenda, no seriously be genuinely interested. Ask How are you? and wait for the person on the other end to fill the room with their truth and most importantly, keep tabs on your inner self. Vulnerability I think is a gift and our humanity, our collective humanity I have found can lighten the load during this time. So that's my hope virtual fam. Sprinkle joy in someone's week. If and when you have a free second, listen to my keynote address with industry advice but first...Humanity. Happy Monday! Clip: @wokemediabk MUA: @makeupwithjossy

I read something this morning that said "Llife's work demands nothing but your intent and passion for that work..." My intent through BTB3 was to connect with others and along the way I heard amazing business beginning stories which is why I became a bit obsessed about ending the event series with a film aptly titled " The Story of Beyond the Blackout." Storytelling has become a passion of mine. Thank you to my co-producers for allowing me to write it, @carolynmalachi for adding your beautiful voice, @besongetchi for capturing all the footage, my creative colleague Andre for masterfully editing/producing this entire piece, and for @eventsatandersonhouse allowing us to film over multiple days where our story began. DC Event pros, This is Us. I hope you enjoy our story linked in my bio and if you watched at the event tell me your favorite moment. Blessings to us all. Happy Thursday. Graphic: @wokemediabk

To my fellow #eventpro I love us. I'm rooting for us. I pray for us. Hope to see you next Tuesday. This event is for everyone. Cheers to the weekend. Footage: @besongetchi Graphic: @wokemediabk

Weekend energy... Do me a favor grab your ticket to BTB3 going down in just 11 days on Tuesday, August 17 @conradwashingtondc . We have food, spirits, photo booth and of course #creativepreneurs and community. Will I see you there? I hope so. TGIF. Photobooth magic: @pxlbooth

Last week I was talking to a fellow event colleague whose seeing her professional circle shift in unexpected and slightly uncomfortable ways. I encouraged her to view every interaction in business and in life as a gift, a chance to learn some new, and to gain a different perspective. Here's what I believe to be true. Everyone who is in your life may not stay but their impact is an important part of your internal tapestry. Every person no matter the duration in your life or business is a gift. So for anyone who is living through a shift in your circle, do not fear because you are growing and you've got a life that is waiting for you. I'm rooting for us all.. Happy Tuesday! Graphic: @wokemediabk

Last night I watched the amazingly talented Sarah Khan Event Styling not win #fullbloom on HBO Max surrounded by family, loved ones, and friends including a fellow cast member. Sarah watched the final episode with grace, humor, and joy which reminded me of this March talk when my mamma said something about comparison in order to get me out of a funk. The truth is that like Sarah some things haven't gone the way I like, it's easy for doubt to creep in and then do the worse thing compare... As the weekend starts, don't let comparison trick you. Win or loose, your journey is meant to be celebrated. There is allllways joy in the journey. TGIF. Graphic: Woke Media

It's becoming clearer how I should take up space in the world. What I can tell you is that service, storytelling and survivorship is at the core of my evolution... So I sit humbly because last week I had the honor of talking with the gracious Elizabeth Smart Foundation who is a warrior in her own right. If you remember her story, you understand how deeply grateful I was to be in the room. We talked about trauma, triumph, and how we are worthy of the joy we each fought for and strive to live out daily. It was real talk and she is lovely. I hope you enjoy our conversation and share this simple truth to anyone you know who feels unlovable. YOU ARE WORTHY. Link in my bio to hear the full episode. Enjoy! My pic: Ana Isabel Photography

Let me ask you a question. Do you remember the BC (Before COVID) times? I don't know about you but I was in such a different place professionally and personally which is why I was honored that last week MPI Southern California Chapter invited me to share a process for how to evaluate your career. I really enjoyed myself and am grateful for such an engaging Q&A. In this clip, I talk about the one thing I've done more than anything else in the past year: public speaking or as I like to call it storytelling. What I know for sure is that we can and should evolve and the minute we let go of our ego, the next thing becomes clear. Simply put, I'm open for my evolution and growth. Are you? I'm rooting for us all. Happy Thursday. p.s. Shout out to my mom for STILL keeping a wall dedicated to me🤣 which you can kiiinda see in the background. Love you mamma.

Hey there. I don't know who needs to hear this and maybe this one is for me but as I go through a challenging season in my life (a story for another day) what keeps me together is brightspots and the light that is available to all of us daily. Check out this clip from the The Glow Up Podcast and continue listening but most important, hold on because someone needs you to persist and carry forward. Thank you again Miss Casey Carter for sharing this virtual space with me last Saturday. Happy Thursday to all.

Raise your ✋if you've hand a tough week. Yes, me too but as this clip says " I refuse to not carry forward" no matter the circumstance, try to look for brightspots and dance/sing my way thru days. Sorry Sam #🤣. Do you want to hear more about some real life lessons and business? Subscribe to LaJoy Plans YouTube channel as I'm finally starting to upload all my presentations. Most importantly, "Carry On." You've got this. I've got and as for me I know #godisincontrol. TGIF. Have a glorious weekend!

What I know with all my soul is that the next generation has alot to say and we better pay attention. This clip aptly titled "Virtual Silence" served as a powerful opening of a recent client virtual conference. Intentionally, the young people are wearing black and white so that the message comes through more than anything. There are two main takeaways. 1. Virtual events should strive to include art to convey the mission moment, capture your attention and truly set the stage. 2. Include young people is always powerful. Credits: Poem written by Jayla Simmons & Ms. J Roots Video Production: NolaVid, LLC Students are from Algiers Charter

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