Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Millour.
Hi Melissa, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Be YOUnique Events, LLC combines my professional expertise and artistic background, shaping my wedding and event planning business.
Raised in St. Petersburg, Florida by my Puerto Rican parents, I grew up surrounded by art. My father, an artist, sparked my admiration for creative expression. I frequently attended gallery nights, where I learned to appreciate the passion and uniqueness behind each artist’s work. My love for art, combined with my experiences at weddings, family gatherings, and large events, ignited my interest in event planning. After watching The Wedding Planner, I realized event planning was the perfect fusion of artistry and logistics, a balance inspired by my mother’s leadership in the medical setting.
I earned my degree in Resort & Hospitality Management, specializing in Event Management, while gaining over eight years of experience in the hospitality industry. In roles such as Assistant Banquet Director, Food & Beverage Manager, and Regional Event Manager, I honed my skills in event coordination, team leadership, and client relations.
In 2024, I launched Be YOUnique Events, bringing together my experience and a network of talented vendors. Our mission is to immerse each guest in a unique event experience organized by dependable event artists who will ensure every design element clearly tells the story of each occasion. We provide individuals and organizations with personalized products and services by supporting local businesses and utilizing sustainable methods, enabling each client to create an authentic, timeless, and extraordinary masterpiece.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I decided to start my own event planning company during my third year of university, after completing an internship at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, where I learned the importance of delivering 5-star customer service. However, it took me eight years to turn that dream into reality. Throughout that time, I faced numerous challenges, but each one contributed to where my company is today.
After a short job stint in New Zealand, I married my husband, who was in the U.S. Air Force, and we moved to San Antonio, Texas. Just as I was settling into the city, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. I was working as an Assistant Banquet Director, putting in nearly 65 hours a week, but was furloughed as the hospitality industry took a major hit. During the shutdown, I began researching the event planning industry and noticed trends like micro weddings and virtual events gaining traction. While I thought about launching my business during the pandemic, I felt the timing was too uncertain, especially with my role as a military spouse.
I returned to work at a boutique hotel once travel started picking up but was laid off a year later due to the industry’s financial struggles. That experience made me realize the instability of the hotel industry and the importance of having more control over my own career. I revisited my business plan, eager to find a way to be there for my family while ensuring job security. It was during this time that I discovered MySECO, a Department of Defense program that funded my certification as a wedding and event planner through Lovegevity University.
When my husband’s Air Force contract ended, we moved back to the Tampa Bay area to be closer to family. This presented the perfect opportunity to finally launch my business, especially with the tools and guidance from my course. I used my final project to plan my grand opening event, and from there, everything started to fall into place. Thanks to a mentor and local vendors, the process was smoother than I expected. Looking back, all the challenges I faced were actually opportunities in disguise, and the timing was exactly as it needed to be. Now, with the experience and knowledge I’ve gained, I’m excited to be the best event planner I can be.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Be YOUnique Events, LLC?
Be YOUnique Events, LLC is a distinguished wedding and event planning company that turns every event into a memorable, timeless experience. We specialize in crafting personalized celebrations that are both elegant and uniquely reflective of each client’s vision. At Be YOUnique Events, we are dedicated to executing every detail with exceptional precision, creativity, and sophistication—transforming your event into authentic art.
What sets my company apart is the ability to transcend fleeting trends and focus on creating events that stand the test of time. My professional background in the hospitality industry, along with my dedication to delivering 5-star customer service, ensures that every event is elevated to its highest potential. I’m particularly proud of my commitment to crafting truly unique events that reflect my clients’ individual stories and visions, with an immense attention to detail that makes each one feel special.
Whether it’s a wedding, corporate meeting, conference, or social event, we are equipped to handle it all. Our strong network of small businesses and trusted vendors allows us to offer a level of customization and personalized service that sets us apart in the industry. At Be YOUnique Events, we don’t just plan events—we create experiences that leave a lasting impression.
How do you think about happiness?
What makes me happy? I have so many reasons to be grateful, and I try to focus on them every day! First and foremost, my strong faith in God brings me immense joy. It helps me trust in the process, share love with others and myself, and seek wisdom in all things. I’m constantly inspired by the small acts of kindness I see in the world, and witnessing people help others reminds me of how deeply connected we are, which is such a beautiful concept.
As an event planner, there are moments that truly make me smile—like seeing a bride and groom relaxed and enjoying their day, a young girl happily changing into heels during her Quinceañera, or a company representative sighing in relief after a successful event. These moments are reminders that I’ve helped my clients have a positive and stress-free experience, and that brings me so much fulfillment.
I also cherish time spent with my husband, family, and friends. Those relationships provide me with a sense of familiarity and support, a place to bounce ideas, vent, and share laughter. Outside of work, I’m passionate about playing soccer and dancing. Soccer is both analytical and creative for me, and I love the sense of freedom I get while playing with my teammates on the field. Dancing is another outlet where I can express my emotions through movement and creativity.
Lastly, I absolutely love exploring new places, whether locally or globally. I’m naturally curious about cultures, languages, and history, and exploring new environments teaches me to stay present and grounded.
Pricing:
- Price depends on type of event, level of coordination required, and travel needs.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.beyouniqueevents.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/be_younique_events/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556314317922
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/be-younique-events-llc/
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/MelissaMillour24/
Image Credits
Alicia Pesco Photography KNK Fotography Febus Films Kristie Horton Photography Deanna Grace Photography Gema’s Photography, LLC
