There’s something powerful about stepping into a room full of motivated entrepreneurs—all ready to learn, grow, and stretch into the next level of their potential. The Empower & Elevate Conference delivered just that energy and more. I walked away inspired, refocused, and armed with practical strategies I can apply not only in my own business, but also in how I support wedding and event professionals through community, planning, and leadership.
Here are my biggest takeaways:
1. Be Concise & Precise: Clarity Creates Opportunity
One theme that came up from Jill Lublin—your message doesn’t need to be long to be impactful. Whether you're pitching your services, writing website copy, or introducing yourself at a networking event, concise and precise communication is what allows people to instantly understand the value you bring. In the wedding and event world, this isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
2. Publicity = Influence
Publicity isn’t about being flashy. It’s about visibility, credibility, and the trust that comes with showing up consistently. We were reminded that influence grows when people know who you are, what you do, and why you do it. When you expand your reach, you expand your opportunities—plain and simple.
3. Just Say Yes to Publicity
Even when it feels uncomfortable. Even when you’re not fully “ready.”
Saying yes to interviews, features, podcasts, or speaking engagements is saying yes to your future self. Your story and expertise matter—and someone else needs to hear them.
4. Leverage AI as Your CFO, CMO, and Creative Partner
AI isn’t here to replace us; it’s here to support us. During Sharon Thony's workshop, we learned how to use AI not only for content creation, but also for strategic decision-making, forecasting, branding, and operations. Imagine taking back hours of your week by letting technology handle drafts, workflows, and numbers so you can stay in your zone of genius—planning unforgettable events and building meaningful relationships.
5. Choose 3–5 Words That Define You and Your Brand
This simple exercise carries so much power. When you clearly define who you are and what you stand for, everything becomes easier—marketing, decision-making, partnering, and even pricing. These anchor words become your compass, guiding how you show up and how others experience your brand.
6. Own Your Power
We were reminded that confidence isn’t a luxury—it’s a strategy. When you step into your authority, your clients feel it. Your team feels it. You feel it. Owning your power sets the tone for your value, your pricing, and your professional boundaries.
7. Position Yourself for Profitability
Profitability is intentional. It comes from clarity, smart visibility, aligned branding, and knowing your worth. When you operate from a place of strategy—not survival—you create a business that supports your life, not the other way around.
8. The CLIMB Method: A Framework for Strong Client Relationships
One of my favorite takeaways was the acronym CLIMB—a memorable reminder of what it takes to provide extraordinary service:
- C – Client First
- L – Listen & Understand
- I – Identify & Solve
- M – Mentor & Guide
- B – Build Trust
9. Know Your Start and End Location: Program Your GPS for Success
Another powerful lesson came from Andi Hess, who compared business growth to a road trip. She emphasized the importance of knowing both your starting point and your destination so you can intentionally map your path forward. When you program your business GPS, every decision becomes clearer and more aligned with where you want to go. Your “playlist” is the mindset and motivation that keeps you energized along the journey. And when your destination is set, you’re more likely to recognize—and follow—the signs that point you toward the right opportunities.
This conference aligns perfectly with the heart of what I do at MJK Events and within the Event Pro Venue Show community. When we prioritize people, solutions flow naturally.
Final Thoughts
The Empower & Elevate Conference was more than an event—it was a call to step forward, be visible, and lead with intention. Whether you're a wedding professional, a creative entrepreneur, or someone building a legacy-driven business, these lessons are for you, too.
If you’re ready to elevate your impact, connect with a supportive community, or plan memorable events with cultural depth and flawless execution, I’d love to guide you.
Schedule a discovery call with me today and let’s plan your next step—whether it’s a beautifully organized event or a strategy to elevate your professional visibility and profitability.
