WCW: Royal Enchantment Events Meets World Part One

It's Woman Crush Wednesday, so meet Alex of Royal Enchantment Events, LLC.

When did Royal Enchantment Events LLC get its start?

Royal Enchantment Events was officially a licensed company as of October 2014.

Can you tell me about your background? School? What set you up for this endeavor?

I have been performing in local Northeast Ohio theatre for 16 years. I was always babysitting as a teenager and I paid for college by being a nanny. I have always loved working with kids and for a while a struggled with whether I wanted to go into education or theatre. Instead I studied Musical Theatre and got a degree in Event Management. I worked for a similar entertainment company right out of college, but the travel was so bad I was putting any money I made into my gas tank. I watched the way they managed their company and could see many flaws, and ways that things could be improved. With my Event Management degree I thought, "I could do this." and here we are! Now I get to combine my 2 passions by performing for children, and I get to utilize my theatre and management degree every day.

What all does Royal Enchantment Events do? What are your products?

We are a licensed (emphasis on the licensed) company providing character entertainment for children's parties and special events. A typical party package is an hour long, and we do a fun interactive story time allowing the children to help us tell the characters story, we sing live with accompaniment, give princess lessons (if applicable to the characters), play games, sing Happy Birthday, and leave time for the parents to take photos. We also offer add ons to our packages including face painting, crafts, or make-overs.

Is anyone else involved in Royal Enchantment Events?

I (Alex) am the owner. Alyssa was the first person I promoted to "manager." She helps me market the company, find locations for events, and basically helps everything run smoothly. Our other manager is Marissa and having the 2 of them to bounce ideas off of is fantastic. We have a total of 9 employees that are all excellent actor/singers. Everyone has training of some kind in theatre and hands on training when they first get hired with the company.

Is this your sole job? If not, what else do you do?

As much as I would love this to be my sole job, unfortunately being a princess doesn't pay all the bills. I am a part time Nanny as well. It's a really great gig because it gives me the flexibility to do the daily tasks I need to do with the company.

If you’re not doing it, what would your dream job be?

Acting in some fashion full time whether its stage or continuing my career in character entertainment.

How important is social media to your business?

It is VITAL. We tried newspaper and magazine ads in the beginning and it basically got us nowhere. No one pays attention to that anymore. Facebook ads, Instagram, and our website are what keeps us going.

 What would you say is your personal brand is?

My personal brand is musical theatre and performing.

What can others learn from you?

That you can do anything you want to do with hard work and dedication. If you had told me 5 years ago that I would own a company I would have laughed at you. Sometimes I take a step back and look at what I have accomplished in the last 3 years and I can't believe it. It hasn't been easy, but it has been so rewarding.

How do you do under pressure? How do you handle stress?

I am a very anxious person. I get really stressed out to be honest, but I think I get the most done when I am stressed. Sometimes stress tends to make me over organized, if that makes any sense. I think stress kind of drives all of us here to be our best.

What’s the average day in the life of Alex look like?

I wake up, feed my dog and my cat. Every morning I drink this concoction I've sort of created that helps me with my health (I have celiac disease and Hypothyroid, 2 auto-immune disorders, plus I've struggled with some larynx and vocal health issues as well.) It's a mug of warm water with honey, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and ginger. This aids in acid reflux and gastrointestinal health as well as boosting the immune system. Every morning I respond to any e-mails or auto-gig requests that we receive for the company. If we have contracts to write or any clients to contact I do this mid morning/early afternoon. I post something on Instagram every day for the company. Once a month I will also run some kind of ad on Facebook either running a special or just advertising the company in general. If it is a day I am working I do all of this with watching a 3 year old, who is one of the best kids I have ever had the pleasure to Nanny. I periodically check the company email throughout the day, and in the evening I eat dinner and spend time with my amazing Husband.

Do you/Did you have a mentor/mentee?

I haven't had a true "mentor", but the person who guides me and gives me advice the most is my mom. I have a very close relationship with her, very similar to Rory and Lorelei of Gilmore Girls (we swear, they wrote that show by following us with cameras.) She is truly our fairy god mother and helps us with business, wigs, costuming, assisting events, etc all out of the goodness of her heart.

How did you advance your career?

By taking the initiative to do things myself. I'm not saying I don't ever make mistakes, because of course I do. But I learn from them and that helps us grow. Also it's important to know I only advance because of my amazing team. Without them we wouldn't have any of this, and that is so special. They are the greatest.

Why do you do what you do?

I absolutely love performing and I love working with kids. Seeing their faces light up when you come through the door as their favorite character is priceless. We are creating memories that will last a life time. There is nothing better than a huge smile and hug from a child, especially when we do our volunteer work at hospitals or with the Make A Wish Foundation. Knowing that we brought some happiness to them is what this is all about.

How would you describe your personal style?

On an average day, comfortable/cute. If I am dressing up I have a bit more of a vintage style.

What makes up your wardrobe?

Leggings, tights, skirts, dresses, a few pairs of skinny jeans, and cute/ comfortable tops. Oh and scarves, scarves for days.

Who is your fashion icon?

Honestly, I don't have just one. I have mix of quite a few people. If we are talking about modern day people, I love my Emma's (Stone and Watson.) But I definitely love Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Jackie Kennedy.

What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?

I think my greatest accomplishment is definitely Royal Enchantment Events. Not many people can say they own and run a business at 28 years old.

What is your ‘must have’ accessory?

A scarf or a bow in my hair.

What advice can you give others that look towards you to gauge success?

Don't give up, because there will be a lot of times you want to. Also, don't cut corners. For instance there are several other character entertainment companies in our area, but what sets us apart is that we have the licensing to be able to portray these characters. Many do not, and unfortunately that means eventually they will get caught and be penalized for it.

What advice can you give on failure?

Don't take it personally. Learn from it and move on. Failure in a way helps you grow, because you are then able to have an even better tactic next time.

What was your big break?

To be honest, I'm not sure I've had my "big break" yet. In a perfect world my big break will be when I land a role with a professional theatre. With the company I would say one of our recent events was one of our breaks. It was our largest event to date and was hosted by Geauga Park District. 3000 people came to it and we have had phone calls and emails pouring in ever since.

Are you a member of any organizations? Trade Organizations, etc.

Currently I am not a member of any organizations personally. The company however does work with The Make A Wish Foundation through the local branch.

What’s next for you? What’s next for Royal Enchantment Events?

Next for me is focusing more on a professional acting career. With Royal Enchantment Events, our next goal is to introduce super hero characters, which will be happening very soon!

Thanks Alex!

xo,

KJB

Keep up with Royal Enchantment Events LLC here


** Update/Edit**
Royal Enchantment Events LLC officially merged with Imaginos Productions this week, which is super exciting because the two companies bring different talents and different things to the table. We also have more coverage over Ohio and a larger opportunity to grow!

Flashback Fashion Friday: Weekly OOTD Round-Up

Another week has come and gone... here's what I wore.

Monday:

Monday, I had a doctor's appointment, she ordered blood work and I played with Thomas.

Tuesday:

Tuesday, I got said blood work done, took Thomas to the vet- we've both gained weight since our last visit, we were only excited for one of us, and it wasn't me.

Went to Verizon and got a Popsocket for my phone, it's marble and I love it.

Wednesday:

Wednesday, mom officially began summer break and I have my week break from class #2!

Thursday:

Thursday, dinner at grandma's so Thomas got to see his wooffriend, Abby.

Friday:

It's finally Friday, fun fact- I've thought it was Friday for the past 3 days... so I'm glad it's finally here.

Well the big events this week: Doctor's appointment, blood work, vet, popsocket purchase and dog sitting... the exciting life of a 25 year old, going on 50.

Happy Weekend!

xo,

KJB

WCW: Ashleigh Meets World

Meet Ashleigh~ 

Can you tell me about your background? School?

• I went to Capital University for my B.A in Environmental Science and Biology. I currently am in the Environmental Science Graduate Program (ESGP) at The Ohio State University and I’m working towards my Master’s in Environmental Science and hope to graduate next May ☺

What do you do for a living?

• I work as a Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) for the Civil, Environmental, and Geodetic Engineering Department. I get paid to do very interesting (in my opinion lol) research related human exposures to microorganisms while indoors. Basically, we look at house dust from people’s homes and analyze what is living there as far as bacteria and mold, and if there is any relation to asthma severity.  

If you’re not doing it, what would your dream job be?

• I have always wanted to work at the Environmental Protection Agency. I think protecting our planet has a direct link to the well-being of those of us who live here. Even though I am a science nerd, I think my goals are still people oriented. I want to help as many people as I can, and choosing a field in science gives me a platform to help create things that can impact humans in a positive way.

How important is social media to your business?

• Even though I don’t have a business, social media is important to science because it is a way to share ideas and bring attention to things I feel is important. In this era of “alternative facts” I think getting the word out about the facts and evidence is very important.

 What would you say is your personal brand is?

• Anyone who knows me knows I’m passionate about the environment, and cats of course (I have 5 lol). I’m very “Bopey” so I’ve been told haha whatever that means. I think just goofy and easy going, but also straight and to the point.

What can others learn from you?

• I think others can look at me and see that hard work and determination pays off. Also, you don’t have to be all work and no play to get anywhere in life. I have goals and aspirations that I work hard for, but I also know how to have a good time. Balance is something I always strive for, and I hope people can learn that from me.

How do you do under pressure? How do you handle stress?

• Pressure motivates me. Without is I don’t think I would be able to get anything done. As a graduate student, I have encountered more pressure than I ever thought possible. It’s stressful but it has taught me to just roll with it, do what you can and take pride in what you do and end the end people recognize hard work and dedication when they see it.

What’s the average day in the life of Ashleigh look like?

• Hahahaha I have no average days it seems like lately. I am probably up early to finish up homework I didn’t do the night before. Then I drink at least 2 cups of coffee and fight the traffic downtown to get to OSU. Once I’m there I’m either in class, the lab or at my desk. Then to end the day I’m either working out or working my second job at a tanning salon. There is never a dull moment, and there is still usually enough time left to fit in a few Netflix episodes at the end of the day.

Do you/Did you have a mentor/mentee?

• In the academic world, I think there is a sense of camaraderie among everyone and that provides an environment where everyone can learn something from someone else. I appreciate my advisor Karen Dannemiller specifically. She has taught me so much in a little under a year. Also, I get to work with undergraduate students a lot too. It is great to see knowledge and ideas flow from my advisor to me and then in return to younger students.

How did you advance your career?

• I got very, very lucky haha. I think that I have a general sense of where I want to go with my life, but I think it is important to constantly stay open to opportunities that may come your way. The graduate program I am in was very out of my comfort zone at first, and I wasn’t sure it was a good fit. But I took on the challenge anyway and I have learned so much and gotten so far because of it. I think patience is key, because as much as you want something to work out the right opportunity usually comes your way when you least expect it.

Why do you do what you do?

• I do scientific research because I am very curious, and coming up with ideas to test in the lab is a very creative process for me. I feel like it is a way to express myself, and it helps me work towards my goal of helping people.

How would you describe your personal style?

• A little bit hippie, and little bit science nerd. Basically, I like to blend different styles to create something comfortable and simple, yet still has a unique element to it. I like to be original, so you will probably see me wearing white after Labor Day lol

What makes up your wardrobe?

• Leggings as pants. That’s all I’ll say lol

What is your ‘must have’ accessory?

• Ear buds lol

What advice can you give others that look towards you to gauge success?

• Only look towards yourself to gauge success. Everyone has a different path and a different journey. I think happiness is a good way to gauge success. Because if you’re truly happy, even through all the struggles life throws at you, I think you are doing the right things.

What advice can you give on failure?

• Failure makes us who we are. A successful person has failed many, many times. And I am no different. Learn from mistakes and failures and grow as a person.

What was your big break?

• On the last day to be accepted into my graduate program my current advisor called me to have a phone interview and offered me a place in her lab. Just when I had lost hope on this path, life turned right around and gave me exactly what I wanted.  In that moment, it felt like all my hard work up until that point had finally paid off.

Are you a member of any organizations? Trade Organizations, etc.

• I’m in the Environmental Science Graduate Program

What’s next for you? 

• Great question haha. I have thought about getting my PhD, but that seems like a lot of work right now. When I graduate next May I will probably go on the job search, and hey maybe I’ll end up at the EPA like I’ve always dreamed of doing.

Thanks, Ashleigh!

xo,

KJB

WCW: In The Midst Meets World

It's Wednesday- so it's time for another Woman Crush Wednesday installment!

Meet Samantha of In The Midst!

When did you start In The Midst?

• I started it February 14, 2016. What better day to celebrate my love of food than Valentine’s Day?!

Can you tell me about your background? School? What set you up for this endeavor?

• I went to school initially for elementary education then switched to communications. I guess that explains my blog well. I love helping and teaching people and decided to do it in this format. My lifelong love of food set me up well for this endeavor. My grandparents had a bed and breakfast when I was growing up so I spent a lot of time making meals for their guests and that is where I learned to cook.

Is anyone else involved in In The Midst?

• Just me!

Is this your sole job? If not, what else do you do?

• Not a job at all, just a passion project. I eventually would love to start a food business but right now this is just something for me.

If you’re not doing it, what would your dream job be?

• Still dreaming that up, but definitely something related to food. I love helping people so combining those two passions would be ideal. I’ve toyed around with cooking classes or cooking consulting – I think that could be really worthwhile to help others realize that they can cook for themselves and be able to learn all the basics so they can be successful in their own kitchen.

How important is social media to your business?

• Beyond important, it’s everything. Sometimes writing a blog you can feel like you’re talking to a wall but social media allows it to become a conversation with your people. I’ve met so many wonderful people in the food scene in my city because of social media. Many just from sending a message on Instagram! Social media has brought me awesome friendships and connections.

 What would you say is your personal brand is?

• Oh, that’s a good question. I think for my blog my tagline that I came up with from the start still rings pretty true. “West Coast Roots. Midwest Living. Cross Country Cuisine.” That is so me - I am proud of my roots, I absolutely love living in the Midwest, and I have such a desire to try all kinds of foods. My brand revolved around that and being a resource to others.

What can others learn from you?

• My biggest desire is for everyone I know and work with to realize that anyone can cook. But really. People see certain cuisines or meals as so unattainable. Or they think it costs a lot of money. I love showing people budget-friendly ways to make their life full of good food.

How do you do under pressure? How do you handle stress?

• I love deadlines and conferences, the stress of accomplishing something big like that excites me. Everyday stress isn’t nearly as fun but having a project to work together with a team and be stressed together can bring people together.

What’s the average day in the life of Samantha look like?

• I wake up at 7:40…well snooze until 7:50 and then I’m usually out the door by 8:05 (I pride myself on low-maintenance mornings) so I can have a few minutes before work to check up on things and get my day in order. I work 8:30-5 and then after work is a combination of social media/blog posts, making dinner and other meals for the week, going to an event at church, or just introverting. My weekends are where I do lots of other things like blog strategy, group fitness research for classes I teach, and trying out new restaurants.

Do you/Did you have a mentor/mentee?

• I have lots of different people I look to for different things. Someone I look up to for goal setting, someone for social media, and someone else to remind me to have fun. I have also always been very fortunate to be surrounded by strong women leaders. They inspire me daily!

How did you advance your career?

• I’m still pretty young in the career force, but I think I have found myself where I am at because of willingness to put in hard work, loyalty, brain power, and absorbing every possible ounce of information that is thrown at me. I save every email, article, PDF I get and that has helped me to keep tabs and be a resource to people.

Why do you do what you do?

• I love my current job, I get to work for my sorority and pair that with my passions of helping others and food. I do it because I get to go work every day surrounded by people who I love and who support me all while we get to do things that support college women to be better people.

How would you describe your personal style?

• Hmm… I would say it is classic feminine. I’ve learned over the years there are just some trendy styles I cannot pull off, and that’s ok. My personality is matronly in nature so pairing that with a midi-skirt and Peter Pan color doesn’t work, I don’t feel chic just a little too mature. I stick with classic options and provide a pop or two of fun to keep it relevant. I would say 99% of the time I am wearing something from the Loft. I love slouchy cardigans, lace, and the color grey.

What makes up your wardrobe?

• Again, majority of my clothes come from the Loft. After that would be leggings. Which I used to be totally against leggings, I was in that crowd that said they weren’t pants. Then I read this awesome article about men being able to wear comfy basketball shorts, why are we judging women that want to be comfortable in leggings? It was a feminist shift in perspective. Don’t get me wrong, I still make sure my leggings pass the bend over test, and usually still wear a shirt that covers my booty but I have always been modest in my attire choices.

Who is your fashion icon?

• I don’t think I have a particular icon, but I usually love anything that Reese Witherspoon, Blake Lively, or Kate Middleton wears. Classic with a pop of modern.

What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?

• This is hard! Little things all over. My first job out of college. My budgeting skills. My DIY furniture abilities.

What is your ‘must have’ accessory?

• My mustard seed necklace from my grandma, I wear it all the time. The bible verse Matthew 17:20 says “Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." It reminds me to always have faith and I love the family connection. A lot of my favorite jewelry has family ties.

What advice can you give others that look towards you to gauge success?

• Don’t look towards me, look towards yourself! In this social media world we think everyone has it together and it stresses you out to think you don’t have it as good as them. This blog isn’t perfect, I don’t post consistently, and I don’t eat out every day of the week. You are seeing my best side of me, my tailored brand. Give yourself some grace and reach out to those you look up to in the blog world so you can hear about their real life. My favorite moments of running this blog have been talking to other people in the industry and realizing none of us feel like we have it figured out. It was so comforting to hear that.

What advice can you give on failure?

• Failure is just practice so you can get it right the next time. If you frame your failure that way you can let it catapult your success instead of bringing you down.

What was your big break?

• I wouldn’t say I’m there yet but it always feels great when brands reach out to me to showcase their product.

Are you a member of any organizations? Trade Organizations, etc.

• I am a member of and work for Alpha Gamma Delta. As far as food I joke that I am a member of the Church of Patachou because it is hands down my favorite restaurant. Not a real association, but it should be!

What’s next for you? What’s next for In The Midst?

• We shall see! I am redesigning my blog and I have some cool ideas around story telling for some blog posts. I know so many awesome people that I want to share their story of food. I have also loved getting involved with some different food charities, so I would like to bring that aspect of food into the mix.

Thanks Samantha!

xo,

KJB

Keep up with Samantha and In The Midst!

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