We were lucky to catch up with Makenna Meehan recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Makenna thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?

As early as I could understand, my parents taught me the value of hard work and independence. I would say I definitely come from a tough love family, which wasn’t always easy, but it made me who I am today.
My parents always pushed me to work harder and do better, because they believed I had the potential to do amazing things. There were no shortcuts in our household. If I wanted something, I had to work for it. At just fifteen years old, it was up to me to get a job, save money, and purchase my own car at sixteen (which was so rewarding!).

At the time, it felt tough and unfair, but now I realize it was love – the kind that prepared me for the real world.
Because of them, I don’t shy away from challenges. They taught me to have strength, determination, and confidence to rely on myself. I will always be grateful for my parents, and who they helped me become.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

As a little girl, I was always drawn to creating things—just like my father. Whether it was painting, making jewelry, rearranging my room for the hundredth time, or binging home design shows, creativity was my outlet and a core part of who I am.

In high school, I explored many different fields, from dental and elementary education, to criminal justice and cosmetology. Like most students, I tried a variety of electives, but it was a computer graphics class that truly sparked something in me. Taught by Ms. K, my former elementary art teacher, and someone I deeply admired I was introduced to graphic design, and fell in love with the creative process in a whole new way.

At the same time, I was working at a small, local party store, where I got hands-on experience in the events industry. I did everything from stocking shelves to taking custom balloon decor and candelabra orders, eventually installing balloon displays on-site. I quickly fell in love with the intricate details of event design, the creative possibilities, and the joy of seeing a client’s reaction when their vision came to life.

As I got older, my passion for interior design grew, and I pursued it as a career. I took a short break from event planning to focus on building my experience in interior design, but in 2022, I returned to the world of events and don’t think I will ever turn back! I love to help clients by taking the stress of planning off their shoulders, allowing them to truly enjoy their special moments. Now, I get to merge both passions; interior design and event planning allowing me to create beautiful, meaningful spaces in every aspect of my work. Looking back, I’m so grateful that my journey led me here, where I can fully embrace my creativity in ways I never imagined.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding part of event planning and balloon decor is seeing my clients’ reactions when they walk into their event space. That moment when their face lights up makes all the hard work worth it. Knowing that I played a significant part in making a special moment in someone’s life even more memorable is an incredible feeling.

It’s especially meaningful because, in many cases, I’m creating something for a complete stranger—someone trusting me to bring their vision to life for an important occasion. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a wedding, or a baby shower, these are moments they’ll remember forever, and I feel truly honored to get to contribute to that joy in so many people’s lives. Seeing their excitement and gratitude reminds me why I love what I do, and it pushes me to keep creating unforgettable experiences for every client.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

I would say word of mouth and social media have been the best sources of new clients for me. I believe personal recommendations are very important as they give a potential new client confidence in my work.

Social media is just as important. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook let me showcase my work, and can reach hundreds of potential clients. I’ve had many people find me through tagged photos, reels, and shares from past customers.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mjmeventdesign.com/
• Instagram: mjmeventdesign
• Facebook: MJM Events & Design https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069231612765

Image Credits

Brooke Walsh Photography (Red and Black Graduation Celebration)