Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Valenzuela.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Since I was 12 years old, I have always dreamt about becoming a planner, but with much discouragement from my loved ones I was told this occupation would not give me the stability I would need in order to “succeed.” So, I did as I was told and went to college to pursue a degree in accounting. After a year of working at Big 4 accounting firm in the Silicon Valley, I decided enough was enough. I packed my bags, quit my job, and moved to my hometown in Los Angeles to start my dream event planning business.
Has it been a smooth road?
I truly believe God puts us in obstacles he knows we can overcome. It’s crazy how in the moment you kind of feel like you’re defeated or in a rut wondering, “what am I doing with my life?” But along the way, you look back at those moments and realize something. That hurdle you once had to overcome was probably one of the best things that could ever happen to you. Otherwise, you probably wouldn’t be who you are without that experience.
One of my struggles along the way were finding clients. My best advice is to partner with a mentor who can take you under their wing and show you their experience with whichever industry you are in. Set your intentions for what you want in your business and make a list of your ideal clients. This took me a while, but I finally figured it out. Here are a few to think about… what does your ideal client look like? Where do they shop? Where do they live? What are they looking for? I hope that helps.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Not JESS A Planner – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
I specialize in event planning & designing. When you think of an event planner, you might assume “they execute events and make sure things are in order, right?” Kind of… there is SO much more to planning than one thinks. As a planner, you have a network with thousands of different vendors that can help your client with what their needs are for their event. Somedays clients feel overwhelmed, stressed, or alone. With a planner, you’re never alone.
I am here as a guide and resource to help. I take the stress and the “what ifs” out of question to put my client’s mind at ease. I help them stay within their budget and save them the time and stress of the nitty gritty that is event planning. Which makes their money well spent. Prior to event planning, I was an auditor for up and coming tech companies. With my previous experience in accounting, I know that this sets me apart from others. I am hyper-attentive to numbers, make wicked spreadsheets, that are so organized, that you know exactly where everything is at all times. Knowing your numbers is crucial and important. Not just for my business but also my clients.
It is my ultimate goal that I exceed expectations and give memorable events that my clients can look back on. I am very big on quality over quantity. When a client hires me, I guide them step by step with what their next “to do list” is, or what decisions I need from. I would never want my clients feeling neglected or ask be asking themselves “now what.” By planning out their event accordingly, in a timely and effective manner, they’ll surely be ready for their special day, with no stress and living in the moment.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love the cultural diversity and artistic presence that’s in LA. It keeps your mind creative and is such an inspiring city. What I like least about LA would be the traffic. Growing up in LA, I used to think waiting 45 minutes for 9 miles in traffic was normal, until I moved and figured out the honest truth. LA will always be home though, so even with traffic you cannot say no to the beautiful weather and breathtaking scenery LA has to offer, just leave extra early.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.notjessaplanner.com
- Phone: (323) 680-5062
- Email: notjessaplanner@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/notjessaplanner
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/notjessaplanner
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/not-jess-a-planner-montebello
- Other: https://youtu.be/ue8Uau2fxEo
Image Credit:
Intro Photo – Jasons Creations; Gallery – Lupe Juarez Photography
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