I don't know about you, but 2021 will make my second birthday in lockdown - and this year it's the big 4-0. I hadn't really thought about having a big party or anything, which is just as well because now I can't! However, the fact that I can't, now makes me want to! The thought of friends gathering, fizz being popped, laughter, happiness, balloons, streamers, food and fun, is all too enticing given recent circumstances. I'm sure I'm not alone in feeling the need to break out and celebrate, as soon as it is safe to do so.
In the meantime, small garden gatherings are just as good!
Luena over at Hip Hip Events has all bases covered for making any size event look beautiful, exciting and memorable. Both grown up parties and childrens parties are catered for and her sense of style and eye for detail is incredible. Any brief you give her for your event will exceed your expectations 100 times over.
Before starting Hip Hip Events, Luena had a succesful career in digital media. Working for agencies and then over on client side in deisgn and also client management, the skills Luena honed have helped her deliver glorious Hip Hip projects.
As any ex desk bunny knows (including me), working for yourself makes you realise how much you miss the office banter and the social side of office working - kitchen natters, drinks after work, lunches in the park with your work bestie. However, as Luena reflects, there really is nothing like being able to develop your own brand. I TOTALLY agree. I miss the office environemt (sometimes), but I love that I've been able to build up relationships with my clients and we have fun in sessions too. I think any self employed person would say the same.
Building a brand is hard. No two ways about it. It takes time, sleepless nights, commitment and ooddles of love and support. But doing what you love is amazing. I asked Luena what her favourite part of her job is, "The reveal. Organising an event is always a job of spinning many plates and managing unforeseen circumstances. It starts with a plan, then the reality is full of wobbles and I’ve got to think on my feet all time to bring it together. It’s a race against time on the day and there’s no dress rehearsal, it simply has to be perfect the moment the client comes to see it. So, the reveal is when all the work pays off, when you get to see the joyful face of the client and know you’ve done a good job."
For many, the thought of leaving a comfortable job to persue a new venture is too daunting. It's full of risk and uncertainty. But imagine the excitement of life! It's time to trust your instincts. From experience Luena knows that there will always be people who have nothing encouraging to say and make you belive it can't be done. But what if it can be done? Do your research and just try. At least then you'll know!
Covid has changed everything - of course it has. We're going to have to learn to live with it and adapt to the new challenges of life. Personally, starting Islandz was the best career move I've ever made. When I asked Luena if she felt the same about Hip Hip she gave a laugh! "Ask me again in two years! When the pandemic hit I had just completed my first year, had finally got to the point where people started hearing about us and our marketing efforts were paying off. Then, well, we all know what happened…."'
The last 13 months has given people the time to reflect and take stock. Hip Hip Events was one of the first to pick up on the potential to design stylish parties, in Bristol. Now, there's more competition as new companies are popping up, meaning there is more of a differentiation drive.
About 10 years ago, way before Islandz was a thing, I made celebration cakes. Through a mutual friend, Luena asked me to make some cakes for her daughters 4th birthday. She knew exactly what she wanted, and how perfect it should be. This is really reflected in her work today. Nothing is over looked and every detail matters. This is what makes her work stand out. And the fact that she loves it makes it all the more fabulous!
So, get in touch with Hip Hip Events for your birthday parties, weddings, summer gatherings, Christmas, anything really! Surely we've all reaslied how important it is to gather together and create memories. There are happier times ahead.
Hip Hip Hooooooray!!!
(and go away Covid).
Instagram: @hiphip_events
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