Our community wouldn’t be what it is today without the amazing women who call it home. Each Hustle + Charmer is passionate, unique, and embodies our values of empowerment among women.

Our new member spotlight series is designed to introduce to you some of the powerhouse women we have in our community.

 

First up in the series is our member Alexandra Baillie-David. Alexandra is an event and wedding planner based in Brandon, Manitoba. She recently swapped the noise and crowds of big city Ottawa for quiet country living with her boyfriend and 15 chickens.

 

Tell us about your business.

 

Marry On Weddings is a full service wedding planning company. I love helping my couples plan their big day and I pride myself on taking the stress out of the experience so they can focus on enjoying the whole process. 

 

What made you decide to get into your field?

 

I’ve always loved planning events so last year I decided to sign up for the wedding planning course with the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada. 

  

There are probably many, but what was one of the biggest or most important lessons you’ve learned since becoming an entrepreneur?

 

The biggest lesson I’ve learned so far from running a business is to not be hard on myself when I lose a client. I recently had a bride I did some consulting for tell me she no longer needed my services as she decided to go in different direction. This stung a little but I’m learning to build a thicker skin. You just have to remind yourself that you are still a professional and you did your best. 

 

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone looking to dive into a similar field or industry?

 

If someone I knew was looking at becoming an event or wedding planner, I would tell them to get certified and become the best planner they can be. Sure, a lot of event planning skills are “learn as you go” but I can’t stress the importance of educating yourself. It also makes you more credible to clients or employers because it shows you care about your own professional development. 

How did you hear about Hustle + Charm?

 

I heard about Hustle + Charm through Instagram. After I started my business, I began following a lot of wedding vendors in Manitoba and I stumbled across the H+C page. I remember thinking “I want to be a part of this!” I love women-empowered communities. It’s a great feeling to belong to a great crew of people who will support you no matter what and that’s what I knew H+C was all about. I bought the annual membership in full and since then I’ve networked with so many people that I otherwise wouldn’t have met. 

 

What was one of the most memorable or impactful experiences you’ve had in Hustle + Charm? 

 

I’ve met a bunch of other wedding industry professionals like planners, makeup artists, photographers, etc. I even met some of them in person when I was in Winnipeg and it almost feels like I’ve made lifelong friends. If you’re considering a membership, to quote Shia LaBeouf – “JUST DO IT!” Who doesn’t like making new friends?

 

Want to stay in touch with Alexandra? Follow her on Instagram and say hello!