Stephanie Johnson shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Stephanie, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: Would YOU hire you? Why or why not?
Absolutely. I’m detail-obsessed, fiercely protective of my couples, and calm under pressure—which is exactly who I’d want on my side. I treat each wedding like it’s the most important one I’ve ever done, because to that couple, it is. And honestly? I’d hire me just for the relief of knowing that when things go wrong—and they always do—I have someone who will handle it without me ever knowing there was a problem.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Stephanie Johnson, the owner of Astonishing Events in Tampa, Florida. I create unforgettable weddings through a blend of event planning, design, and my full inventory of décor rentals. What makes my work unique is that I’m able to transform a space from the ground up—whether I’m coordinating every detail or focusing purely on design and styling. I love curating tablescapes, florals, and personalized touches that reflect each couple’s story, and I’m passionate about making the planning and design process feel seamless and stress-free. Right now, I’m especially inspired by fresh ways to combine my rentals and creative vision to bring dream weddings to life.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My husband. From the very beginning, he’s believed in my creativity, my drive, and my ability to handle challenges—even before I fully believed in myself. He’s the one who encouraged me to open my own business, and I did it during the height of COVID. I was turning down job offers in the middle of a pandemic to pursue my passion, and he never once doubted me. His faith in me gave me the courage to take that leap, and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Looking back, that moment taught me that sometimes the scariest choices lead to the most rewarding chapters of your life.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes. After a series of catastrophic hurricanes severely damaged the wedding venue I manage, I almost gave up. We were preparing for a record-breaking year, and suddenly, all of our couples had to find new locations for their celebrations. It was heartbreaking—not just for the business, but for the dreams we had poured our hearts into. Even now, the venue remains damaged, and it’s a reminder of how quickly life can change. But that experience also pushed me to adapt, focus more on my rentals and design work, and find new ways to serve couples. It taught me that resilience isn’t just about holding on—it’s about finding a new way forward when your original plan is no longer possible.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I’ve always admired my grandpa not only for his success and accomplishments, but also for his character. He was disciplined, humble, and always pursued excellence without ever putting himself above others. He never wanted to work for someone else; he wanted to be his own boss, learning trades, mastering them, and building businesses on his own terms. He taught me to always work hard, strive for better, and pursue what you’re truly passionate about. Those lessons guide how I run my business and approach every couple I work with.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people tell the story of how I made them feel. Whether it was a bride walking into her wedding and seeing her vision brought to life, or a family who felt completely supported on such an important day, I want to be remembered as someone who cared deeply and made things easier, more joyful, and more beautiful for others. My work has always been about more than décor or timelines—it’s about creating moments that matter. If the story people tell is that I poured my heart into making their day special, then I’ll know I’ve left the legacy I was meant to.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.astonishing-events.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astonishingeventsusa
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/astonishingeventsusa
Image Credits
Britt and Bean Photography
Lifelong Photography
Priceless Studio Design
The Camera Crew
