Community Highlights: Meet Ellen Choe of Sky Meadow Place

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ellen Choe.

Ellen, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Back when I was just a sprout, I got my first taste of DIY thanks to my awesome mom. She was a total DIY diva, sprucing up every nook and cranny of our home with her creative touch. Growing up in that crafty environment, I soaked up a ton of different skills like a sponge. Naturally, I started whipping up handmade cards for my buddies, crafting ornaments to jazz up our Christmas tree, and a whole bunch of other nifty DIY projects. I got a real kick out of making personalized gifts for my pals and family. Then, when I hit junior high, I raised my hand to take charge of a teacher appreciation dinner at our church. Let’s just say that shindig was just the tip of the iceberg. Little did I know, this was the beginning of my career in party planning. Like many things we’re passionate about, it all started as a hobby – lending a hand with friend’s birthdays, weddings, baby showers, and bridal showers. I became the go-to party planning guru, even though I had no clue what it meant to be a professional party planner. All I knew was that I had a blast doing it.

I did my darndest to hone my skills, one party at a time. And here I am today, having orchestrated and decked out more than a whopping 1000 parties. I’m beyond grateful that I still get a kick out of doing what I do. It’s been a wild ride!

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Oh, let me tell you, my journey’s been a rollercoaster ride! Just like any epic story, there have been highs and lows, twists and turns. But you know what? I’ve got to say it’s been one heck of an adventure. I decided to trust the process, taking it one step at a time. Whenever a problem popped up, I tackled it head-on. Sure, there were moments when it felt like I was doing a tightrope walk, but I managed to keep my balance and kept on growing. Sometimes, health issues forced me to hit the brakes, and there were those times when my bank account screamed for mercy. But you know what? I never threw in the towel because I realized this was just a chapter in my bigger story. So, here I am, still standing, thriving, and ready for whatever’s next!

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
We’re all about crafting unforgettable experiences for our clients. And hey, I’m a Korean-American who’s fully embraced my Korean heritage, which has led us to specialize in something truly unique – the fantastic celebration known as “doljanchi.” It’s a big, joyful bash thrown when a baby turns one, celebrating their precious journey in a grand way. But wait, there’s more to us than doljanchis! We’re here to make your celebrations shine, whether it’s baby showers, bridal showers, weddings, birthdays, or any other reason to throw a fabulous party. Because let’s face it, every single person deserves to be celebrated just the way they are. And what better way to do that than with a fantastic celebration?

What sets us apart is our expertise in doljanchi, a specialized cultural celebration that not everyone has experience with. It’s a chance for us to connect with our roots and, more importantly, with you, our amazing clients, through our shared cultural bonds.

I couldn’t be prouder of Sky Meadow Place and where we are today. We’ve started small, stayed faithful, and look where it’s taken us. We’re grounded in humility, always knowing there’s more to learn, but equally proud of the specialized experience and know-how we bring to the table.

So, if you’re wondering about the services we offer, here’s the deal: If you’re ready to celebrate, we’re absolutely ready to celebrate with you. We’re here to make your party dreams come true, ensuring it’s seamless and utterly amazing.

We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
Absolutely, COVID-19 was a remarkable period that brought some unexpected lessons into my life. It’s almost like life hit the pause button, and it made me realize the importance of taking a breather, resting, and truly savoring the present moment. While the pandemic presented its fair share of challenges, it also gifted me with a newfound appreciation. It taught me to pay closer attention to the finer details, to stop and listen more attentively to my clients, and most importantly, to find gratitude in every circumstance.

Pricing:

• Custom Rental Package – $200+
• Decorator Package – $1700+
• Full Service Package – $2,200+
• Full Service w/ MC Package – $2,500+
• Full Service w/ Ellen – $3,000+

Contact Info:

• Website: skymeadowplace.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skymeadowplace/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SkyMeadowPlace/
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/skymeadowplace/

Image Credits
Esther Sun Photography Lani Ohye Photography Joy Theory Co Ken Kim Photography Stephanie Han Photo