Today we’d like to introduce you to Jillian Howell.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’ve always been an extremely detail oriented and organized person and I knew that event planning was the perfect career path for me. Growing up, I always had some sort of checklist or to do list I was working on completing. After graduating from the University of Connecticut, I got a job as a wedding coordinator at a local boutique hotel and immediately fell in love with wedding planning. I continued my passion working in different roles in the wedding industry.
Through working with brides in various capacities, I realized that I not only loved working to help make their day the best possible – but that I was capable of doing it on my own, so I launched Jillian Howell Events. My goal in the first year of business (which I am just now completing!), was to get my name out there and continue to build on my network of vendors and clients.
Most of my business comes from referrals from past clients and other wedding industry professionals, which I am so grateful for. The growth and recognition of JHE in my first year has exceeded my expectations and gives me even more motivation to continue growing in year two.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Starting my own business has been extremely rewarding, but it has not always been easy. Juggling two part-time jobs while getting my own company off the ground took (and still takes) many long nights and weekend hours, but is all well worth it.
I am still learning how to balance life as a business owner and as a new mom to my daughter, but I have been so fortunate to work with the best clients and vendors. Boston has an incredible community of small, women-owned businesses, and I have been lucky to work side by side with some of the most hardworking and creative people in the industry.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Jillian Howell Events – what should we know?
I specialize in “Month Of” and “Day Of” wedding coordination as well as full-service wedding planning. I am known for going above and beyond for my clients to ensure their wedding is one of the most memorable days of their lives. What sets me apart from other planners and coordinators is my collaborative approach, not only with my clients but with every vendor I work with.
As a wedding coordinator, I will jump in and do anything I need to in order to help my vendors succeed, whether it’s helping to finish setting a table, unloading flowers, or cuing musicians at the right time. If it will make the day run more smoothly, I will do it. To me, a perfect wedding is one where my client’s vision is carried out by a team of people they’ve selected to bring their vision to life.
This is where I come in – I want to make sure every wedding and event I manage runs smoothly and according to my couples’ vision. Many couples feel overwhelmed by the daunting task of planning a large-scale event. I help them by creating a step by step plan that breaks down each part of their wedding planning and wedding day into manageable, bite-sized pieces that make planning much easier.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I have been inspired by so many people to take the leap of faith and start my own business. My husband, Brian, definitely deserves a lot of credit when it comes to the support and encouragement he’s given me from the very start.
He’s always encouraged me to take chances and bet on myself especially when it comes to business. My family and friends have also been my biggest cheerleaders which have helped to build my confidence to continue growing and trying different things when it comes to expanding my business.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jillianhowellevents.com/
- Phone: 7814848635
- Email: jillian.n.howell@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillian.howell.events/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jillianhowellevents/
- Other: https://www.theknot.com/marketplace/jillian-howell-events-boston-ma-1051510
Image Credit:
Sarah Jayne Photography, Namaste Photography, Sokkha Photography
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