We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tamekia Flowers-Ball. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tamekia below.
Hi Tamekia, thanks for joining us today. Parents can play a significant role in affecting how our lives and careers turn out – and so we think it’s important to look back and have conversations about what our parents did that affected us positive (or negatively) so that we can learn from the billions of experiences in each generation. What’s something you feel your parents did right that impacted you positively.
My mother, Michelle Flowers, epitomizes strength and resilience. From a young age, she instilled in me the importance of diligence and perseverance in achieving one’s desires. She emphasized academic excellence and the significance of setting clear, achievable goals.
Despite becoming a mother at 19 and pausing her dreams to prioritize our family, she never wavered in her aspirations for a better life. She took a position with the U.S. Postal Service, managing to provide for us under challenging circumstances. Yet, her ambitions remained undeterred; in the fall of 1992, during my senior year of high school, she courageously left her job to enroll in Brooklyn College. At the time, she was a single mother juggling the demands of two children, one of whom is non-verbal with autism. Her sacrifices were immense—though I only fully appreciated the extent of these in later years. I learned she often wore plastic bags inside her deteriorated shoes to ensure we could pursue our college education.
My mother was the first in our family to graduate from college, beating me by one year! She set a profound example that any obstacle can be overcome with passion, commitment, and hard work. Her unwavering support has been a cornerstone throughout my career, even when it meant relocating to chase my dreams.
In 2022, when my mother retired, I had the privilege of welcoming her to our team here at Epiphany Blue. It’s a role she embraced with pride and where she continues to make a significant impact. Most importantly, I get to give back to her everything she gave to me.
So, when I think of the question, “What did my parent do right?” my answer is simple—everything.
Tamekia, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Epiphany Blue is an award-winning event planning and experiential services agency for the corporate, government, and non-profit sectors. Established in 2006, the agency has a remarkable track record of crafting unforgettable event experiences and activations that entertain, educate, and empower while elevating a company’s brand with distinction and prominence.
From Peloton to TIDE, companies trust our team to deliver exciting in-person, virtual, or hybrid events that exceed their goals. We are known for flawless, world-class execution with thoughtful details that tell the story of your mission. We also energize your attendees and leave a lasting impression that resonates long after the event is over.
As a partner, Epiphany Blue is dedicated to bringing clients’ visions to life.
CORE SERVICES:
Event Consultation:
We offer insightful ideation, meticulous planning, and a clear path to transform your event aspirations into awe-inspiring realities.
Event Planning & Management:
The agency’s meticulous and innovative team handles every detail in planning and executing events. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of the event are seamlessly coordinated, leaving no room for oversight.
On-Site Event Management
Our on-site professionals are committed to delivering a smooth and stress-free event, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—connecting with your guests and enjoying the moment.
Experiential Services:
From standalone spectacles to integrated experiences within your broader event framework, we specialize in crafting engaging moments that resonate deeply with your audience and leave lasting impressions.
CLIENT OVERVIEW:
Peloton
Burrell Communications Group (Toyota, TIDE, McDonald’s)
Black Entertainment Television
America’s Big Sister
Dwyane Wade’s Wade’s World Foundation
New York City Public Schools
NYPACE
Citizens Committee for New York City
Dancing Classrooms
New York City Office of the Mayor
U.S. Army
Syracuse University
Guttman College
Kenny “The Jet” Smith’s Aim High Foundation
WHAT SETS US APART:
Epiphany Blue provides clients with big agency expertise and small agency attention. Our clients praise our commitment to providing individualized focus and a client-centric approach. Epiphany Blue boasts a team of seasoned professionals with diverse expertise, ensuring each aspect of the event is handled with precision and creativity. Our approach is highly personalized. We tailor events to specific client needs and preferences, guaranteeing a one-of-a-kind experience. We prioritize client needs and aspirations, forging lasting partnerships built on trust, reliability, and exceptional service delivery.
Epiphany Blue’s unique selling proposition encapsulates our commitment to crafting tailored and innovative events that leave a lasting impact. We stand apart in our ability to create not just events but transformative experiences that fuse entertainment, education, and empowerment into every detail, ensuring that every interaction within the event is meaningful and memorable.
At the heart of Epiphany Blue’s distinction is our diverse service offerings. Our range of services, from virtual and hybrid events to large-scale corporate gatherings and intimate bespoke experiences, ensures broad market relevance and appeal.
Our diverse portfolio of revenue streams, including full-service planning and execution, event consulting, on-site management, and experiential activations, is designed to cater to a wide range of client needs. This comprehensive suite of services ensures we can accommodate any client requirement, regardless of whether they possess an in-house events team.
Epiphany Blue orchestrates corporate events, employee engagement and wellness programs, and youth and community outreach initiatives. We serve as a comprehensive resource for clients who aim to connect with their consumers, invigorate their workforce, and contribute to their community.
The features that distinguish Epiphany Blue as an exceptional event planning agency include the following:
Innovative Conceptualization: Epiphany Blue excels in creating innovative event concepts tailored to clients’ unique visions and objectives.
Comprehensive Services: We offer full-service event planning services for clients who require a complete package and a la carte services such as Event Consultation, On-Site Event Execution, and Experiential Activation for clients seeking additional support for existing event teams and events.
Attention to Detail: Our meticulous attention to detail ensures that every event element, from decor to scheduling, is flawless and aligns with the overall theme.
Technology Integration: We leverage cutting-edge event technology, incorporating interactive features, live streaming, and digital engagement tools to enhance attendee experiences.
Sustainable Practices: Epiphany Blue is committed to sustainable event planning, integrating eco-friendly practices, and minimizing the environmental impact of events.
PAIN POINTS WE SOLVE:
Time and Resource Constraints:
Many companies assign the duties of event planning to team members who may lack the critical experience and capacity needed for seamless execution, thus costing the client time, money, and resources. Event logistics can be complex, from registration and attendee management to transportation and accommodations. Epiphany Blue alleviates this pain point by taking on the logistical and operational responsibilities, allowing clients to focus on their core business activities.
Expertise and Experience:
Epiphany Blue brings specialized knowledge and expertise in organizing various events, such as conferences, corporate events, employee workshops and retreats, and youth and community experiences. We have experience navigating the complexities of event logistics, vendor management, and program execution.
Extensive Vendor Resources:
Epiphany Blue has established relationships with trusted vendors and can handle the entire vendor management process, including contract negotiation, coordination, and timely service delivery.
Peace of Mind:
Knowing that Epiphany Blue is managing your event provides peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy the occasion without worrying about the logistics. Consider it handled!
Have you ever had to pivot?
The Beginning
Epiphany Blue’s story began on May 5, 2006, in New York City. The agency specialized in producing events and booking celebrity talent for client events, campaigns, and other endeavors. As the Founder, I focused on providing exceptional services that positively impacted the entertainment and corporate industries. In a short period, Epiphany Blue gained notable clients, including Black Entertainment Television, The NAACP, Toyota, Tide, McDonald’s, NBA legends Kenny Smith and Dwyane Wade, and the New York City Department of Education.
Transformation
Throughout the years, I began to discover my greater purpose and evolved as a business leader. In 2012, while business was going very well, I transformed Epiphany Blue’s business model to deviate from producing mostly entertainment industry events and talent booking. I realized that success was determined by the impact we made on others, and I wanted Epiphany Blue to reflect this. The transformation took two years to manifest, and my client list was reduced to just two. However, this was necessary to establish Epiphany Blue’s foundation and future success.
Revitalization
Today, Epiphany Blue’s foundation and culture are based on three pillars: creating memorable experiences, bringing visions to life, and motivating and inspiring people to be more fulfilled in every aspect of life. This is what separates us from our competition. While we excel in producing engaging and memorable events for several business industries, we are committed to developing and empowering people. We only accept clients dedicated to making a positive social impact on their customers and attendees through their events and overall business model. We serve educational institutions, corporations, small businesses, non-profits and foundations, government agencies, and social and professional organizations.
2020 and Beyond
While the impact of COVID-19 has been devastating, some roses have grown from the concrete. Through adversity, I learned how to thrive and once again evolve my business model to meet the needs of a “temporary normal.” We quickly transformed all of our event and development services into virtual experiences. This change was essential for Epiphany Blue’s sustainability. With the inclusion of virtual event planning, I envision expanding Epiphany Blue’s services to serve national and global clientele. We will continue to implement virtual and hybrid events as we once again embrace in-person gatherings.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
Exponential Living by Sheri Riley
“Exponential Living” was written by my former boss and mentor, Sheri Riley. It is a powerful guide to achieving peace, clarity, and focus in a chaotic and overwhelming world. Riley encourages readers to prioritize their well-being and live a life that aligns with their true passions and purpose.
The concept of “Stop Spending 100% of Your Time on 10% of Who You Are, resonates deeply with me as it mirrors my struggles of balancing my multiple roles as a business owner, mentor, and mother and spending time on what matters most. Sheri’s emphasis on self-care, intentional living, and peace being the “new success” reinforces my commitment to personal and professional growth without sacrificing my well-being.
Scale or Fail by Allison Maslan
“Scale or Fail” was authored by Allison Maslan, the founder of the Pinnacle Global Network, which I was a member of in 2023. This book provides a comprehensive roadmap for entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses effectively and sustainably.
This book was incredibly inspiring, offering practical advice and strategies for scaling a business. It catalyzed me hiring the necessary staff to run my business, thus freeing me to work on my business rather than in it.
Play Like a Man and Win Like a Woman by Gail Evans
Gail Evans’ “Play Like a Man and Win Like a Woman” offers valuable insights into navigating the corporate world as a woman and provides strategies to help women leverage their unique strengths to succeed in a male-dominated environment.
This was the first book that Sheri Riley gave me when I went to work for her in my early 20s, and it significantly impacted me. It resonated with my previous experience working in the music industry and my current experience as a female entrepreneur in the business world. The book gave me tactics, tips, and inspiration to confidently navigate and lead as a woman business owner. It reinforces my commitment to supporting and mentoring other women business owners to achieve their full potential.
Start With Why by Simon Sinek
“Start With Why,” by Simon Sinek, was an essential book during my career journey. It explores the importance of understanding the underlying purpose behind our actions and how they drive success and fulfillment. The book states that starting with ‘why’ is a powerful way to inspire and lead effectively.
I firmly believe there must be a purpose behind your passion, and this book’s core message of understanding and articulating one’s purpose resonates deeply with me. It reinforces my commitment to leading Epiphany Blue with a clear sense of purpose and passion. Constantly revisiting my “WHY” helps guide my “how” and gets me past the most challenging obstacles in my business and life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://epiphanyblue.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/epiphanyblue/
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/epiphanyblue06
- Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/tamekiaflowers/
- Twitter: N/A
