Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Arias.
Hi Stephanie, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Since a very young age, I was taught to go to school, get an education and be the best I could be at whatever career I decided to pursue in college and I did just that. I did two years at The State College of Florida and got my associate’s degree and then transferred to The University of South Florida where I got my bachelor’s degree in health administration and biological sciences. I was so excited because everything I had worked for had finally paid off. I was the first-generation college graduate of my family and they were all immensely proud. Going back a semester before I graduated, I began to look for a full-time job in my career field. After three months of applying, I landed my first full-time job. I was ecstatic! I began working for a top-level Ophthalmologist in the Tampa Bay area. The time I spent there was full of growth, laughter and joy but at the same time, I felt like something was missing. It wasn’t until the pandemic when I had time to think, I realized that I wanted more in life than to just sit around and watch as my days went by consumed by society’s standard of living.
One day as I’m sitting on my mom’s couch (I stayed at my mom’s during the pandemic) I asked myself “Steph what is it that you love to do?” “If you could do something forever what would that be?” and I pondered that question for a few days until it hit me. I have always felt a passion for the event industry but never thought I could pursue that as an actual career. My family has always been impressed with my attention to detail and my organizational skills. Not to mention how I can’t live without my planner! So I decided to become an entrepreneur and take that leap of faith of starting a business, MY business, where I get to dictate what I do, where I do it and how I do it. I have never felt so driven and happy in my entire life. The fact that I get to design and execute one of the happiest days of a couple’s life is an honor and a privilege. Getting to do the thing that I love every single day has given me a different perspective on life and the way I want to live it. I believe everything happens for a reason and that reason may just lead you to hop out of your comfort zone and find your purpose.
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?
Has it been a smooth road? Absolutely not! Anyone who has a business or has started a business can attest that it is probably one of the hardest things they have done but definitely worth it. When I first started my business, I didn’t know what licenses I needed, how to market on social media, or how to even run a business so I began researching and learning. Keep in mind this was all during the pandemic so yes, it was easier to do research because I had the time, but most things were closed so I couldn’t ask questions to a live person. I started my business in the middle of a pandemic, crazy right! Needless to say, there were many struggles, emotionally, mentally and financially but I pushed through and came out on the other side. I have an amazing support system, my fiance and family have supported me through this crazy journey that is only getting started and I can’t thank them enough for everything they have done to make my dreams of planning and entrepreneurship a reality.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I am the founder of my event planning business based out of Parrish, FL. I offer services for any type of event but I specialize in weddings. My services include month of coordination, partial planning and full planning. I do customize my packages to best fit my client’s needs. I believe that not every client is the right client so that being said I like to build a relationship between my clients and myself as we will be working together for months. I am not a DIY planner, however, I am that planner that will be by your side throughout your whole planning process. I will go to every meeting, read every contract, speak with every vendor to ensure that you get the wedding of your dreams. I believe I am much more than a planner. I am a friend, confidant, therapist, shoulder to cry on and whatever you need me to be. I believe that is what sets me apart from others in my industry. I am most proud of my brand because it represents me (literally my name is in the logo). It represents who I am and what I can do for you as an engaged couple. My brand is an accurate representation of my talent and the consistency and perseverance I have put in to be where I am today. I want everyone to know that when you hire Stephanie Arias Event Planning for your next event or wedding you are not only hiring an experienced planner but someone who will invest their time and energy into making your event/wedding day an extraordinary experience.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I love books and podcasts! One of my favorite books is Fear is My Homeboy by Judi Holler and I’m currently reading The Perfection Detox by Petra Kolber and it is fantastic. I have a few favorite podcasts. My favorite business podcasts are The Jasmine Star Show and The Make Chic Happen Podcast. My favorite leisure podcasts are Chicks in the Office and Women Inspiring Women with Melanie Mitro.
Contact Info:
- Email: stephanieariasep@gmail.com
- Website: stephanieariasep.com
- Instagram: @stephanieariasep
- Facebook: Stephanie Arias Event Planning
- Youtube: Stephanieariasep
- Other: Pinterest: Stephanie Arias Event Planning
Image Credits
Pictures of myself: Andrea Del Salto Photography Pictures of teal wedding: Jennifer Nicole Photography and Films Pictures of pink/orange wedding: Kiste Photography
