his month I personally had the pleasure of introducing to our readers a very dear friend of mine. Luckily my introduction fits into our
theme for this month's issue of Our Voice, which is “Love & Influential Black Woman” during the month of Black History. What better way to present an extraordinary woman, mother, wife, newly grandmother and a caterer of dreams, fantasy and extravagance.
Extravagant Affairs, L.L.C. is an all-inclusive, all-encompassing event planning firm dedicated to extending their expert services in the area of wedding planning – cultural and traditional, corporate planning, floral designing, event rentals and an array of other amenities.
As a childhood friend, you can't image how proud I was after reading the many accolades and recommendations from prior clients, to find out that my dear friend is one of the “go-to” people in the D.C. area.
So without further ado, Our Voice is extremely excited to introduce Shovana Williams, CEO and Event Planner of Extravagant Affairs, L.L.C.
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OUR VOICE: I am so excited Shovana about this interview! This is very easy to me because I personally know your style and creativity with regard to your business and personal life. For our readers, please tell us as an African American business woman in the field of making fairytales and dreams come true what has been, if any, obstacles you have faced over the years?
SHOVANA: One of the biggest obstacle that I can say that I’ve faced as an African American business professional in the field of Wedding Planning, was penetrating the multi-cultural community. Gaining the trust and respect from these various multi-cultural groups (i.e., Afghans, South Indians, North Indians, Nigerians, Asians, Korean and Jewish) and gaining the trust of the immediate families, in particular is key. These cultures are accustomed to relying upon immediate family and friends only! Especially, someone that shares their background, customs and beliefs; they often can’t believe that I'm African American, that I know, and am familiar with their traditions, and other symbolic customs/rituals that are essential parts of their wedding that are observed (before and during). But once they witness my team and I in action; our business cards are requested throughout every event, and therefore our reputation precedes us, and before we knew it, our client list evolved into a very broad-base cultural cliental.
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Especially, someone that shares their background, customs and beliefs; they often can’t believe that I'm African American, that I know, and am familiar with their traditions, and other symbolic customs/rituals that are essential parts of their wedding that are observed (before and during). But once they witness my team and I in action; our business cards are requested throughout every event, and therefore our reputation precedes us, and before we knew it, our client list evolved into a very broad-base cultural cliental.
OUR VOICE: With so many businesses in your industry what sets you apart from all others?
SHOVANA: I believe the biggest thing that sets us apart from other Wedding Planning Agencies in this industry is being able to provide a “One Stop”
6 Our Voice / February, 2014