HER STORY ⟡ Cindy of Taytum & Stone Events
Today we are meeting Cindy of Taytum & Stone Events!
Hey ya'll! I embarked on my entrepreneur journey about two years go. I wanted to build a brand that was unique, affordable, and solely mine. Starting a business is nothing short of frightening, but worth every doubt. I am a passionate wedding planner with a deep love for creating extraordinary, unique moments.
With years of experience in the industry and a genuine dedication to making every couple's dreams come true, I am committed to crafting personalized, seamless, and unforgettable weddings that leave a lasting impression. I am an addict of details and feel strongly that no detail is too small — perks of having an intricate eye.
Aside from all of that, I am a mother to two precious kids, Taytum Wren and Carter Stone (now you see where the brand name came from). Born in NY, raised in south Florida, currently in the mountains of NC. When I am not being a business owner, you can find me exploring life with my family, reading a catchy Colleen Hoover book, or binge watching a Netflix series. In the last two years, I have had the honor to be a part of so many events; from intimate baby showers to luxurious weddings, each event showcases the attention to detail, elegance, and personalization that I bring to every occasion.
Why I started:
Being a business owner was also a goal for me; more like a dream I never thought would come true. I went on maternity leave with my daughter and being at home more with her really gave me the motivation to make that my lifestyle permanent. Working as an OB/GYN Sonographer was incredible! However, after having kids, my wants and needs for myself changed very quickly. I tossed around many different small business ideas but starting my own wedding planning and design business just seemed to really be the only industry I wanted to be a part of. I worked at a venue back in my early 20's and I remember feeling so inspired to be in the wedding industry. The small town we live in has very limited options when it comes to this type of service so I took that leap and went for it! Boy, am I glad I did! Not only do I love the event industry, but I absolutely love being an independent female business owner.
What impact do you hope to make through your business?
I hope to be an inspiration to my kids. I want them to know that no matter how big or wild their dreams may seem, they can achieve anything! I want my kids to know that they don't have to settle for an in office job; they don't have to be doctors to be successful in life. I want them to know that as long as you are doing what you love, they will never work a day in their life. I also want females to know that we CAN run successful growing businesses, we can be recognized as impactful entrepreneurs in this society. I also want to make a huge impact on my clients -- the ones who trust in me and believe in me. I want all of my clients to walk away knowing I put so much love and time into their event because I genuinely care. Relieving people from the stress of planning in an event, is not just part of the business, it's a mission for me.
Who or what inspires you?
My kids, of course! They are my WHY. They are the ones I want to grow up to know that everything I did, I did with them as my number one priority. Also, other businesses in the event industry inspire me. Being in this particular industry it HARD! It is filled with so many challenges that you never even thought could be possible. So my hat is always off to all business owners, especially my fellow event industry peers.
What is your favorite piece of advice you've ever received?
DO NOT COMPARE YOURSELF TO ANYBODY OR ANY BUSINESS! We are all in different stages of business owning -- some with 20 + years of experience and some with none. It doesn't matter how you get there as long as you get there. You will eventually be that business owner with 20+ years of experience that the rookies want to be. You just have to keep pushing through those hurdles.
Can you share a moment when you felt truly proud of your accomplishments as an entrepreneur?
I can still remember when I opened my email and saw I received my first Google review. I never thought I would be on Google let alone receiving multiple five-star reviews. It made all of the "starting a business hustle" worth it.
What does BEAUTY mean to you?
Being the most genuine and authentic version of yourself.
What advice would you give your past self just starting your business or to a woman wishing to start her own entrepreneurial journey?
Do not give up. Don't let the highlight reel of the Internet discourage you. Don't let anyone doubt your ability to succeed in a dream you are passionate about.
What practices and rituals do you have that helps you create harmony/balance in your life & business?
Carving out 'me-time'. Always make time for yourself. You can't be the best version of yourself if your cup is half empty.
What would you like our Beauty Boost community to know?
Life will always hand you opportunities to fail. Let those failures be an opportunity to learn and grow. There was so many times I wanted to give up. But without those moments, I wouldn't be the business owner I am now. Also, if you need to step away from the highlight reel of the internet, DO THAT! Do not compare yourself to anyone or any situation on social media. Protect your mind and your heart.
Follow over at:
Instagram: @taytumandstone
