We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Adrienne Ogletree Ruff. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Adrienne below.

Alright, Adrienne thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for you?

One of the most remarkable acts of kindness I have experienced occurred recently during the planning of my women’s empowerment conference, “Women en Blanc.” A key component of this event was a VIP reception, which I envisioned as an exclusive cocktail party. However, I faced significant challenges in finding a suitable venue that matched my aesthetic vision while remaining within budget constraints.

At a networking event to which I was invited, I shared my enthusiasm with a friend about how perfect the venue would be for the reception. She kindly offered to look into the venue’s availability for me. A few days later, she reached out to inform me that the venue was indeed available and had been secured. When I inquired about the associated costs, I was taken aback by her response; she generously offered to cover the entire expense without expecting any public acknowledgment.

This gesture not only alleviated a substantial source of stress for me but also underscored the profound impact of support and generosity in professional relationships. I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and appreciation for her selflessness, which ultimately enhanced the overall experience for all attendees at the conference.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I have always had a deep passion for aesthetics, intricate details, and interior design. From a young age, I found joy in transforming spaces, often redecorating rooms in my mother’s home while she was away, much to her surprise upon her return. I vividly recall one instance at 18, where, with minimal funds, I purchased kitchen décor to create a fresh look.

My early exposure to the event industry came from my parents, who owned a catering business. While working at events such as weddings, I often found myself drawn to rearranging décor and organizing the venue—tasks that extended beyond my assigned role of serving food. This experience ignited my interest in event planning and design.

For the past eight years, I have been a full-time event planner and decorator. I take immense pleasure in enhancing the beauty of various occasions, and I possess a keen eye for detail. I believe that it is the small things that truly matter, and witnessing the delight on my clients’ faces when they see the final result is incredibly rewarding.

While I have always aspired to become an interior designer, I do not have formal education in the field. Instead, I study the works of renowned designers and remain open-minded, continuously seeking inspiration to think outside the box. What sets me apart in my industry is my unwavering commitment to creativity and my ability to personalize each project, ensuring that every event reflects the unique vision of my clients. I am most proud of the relationships I build with my clients and the transformative experiences I create, as well as the lasting impact my work has on their most cherished moments.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

A significant lesson I had to unlearn in my business journey was the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone. As someone who identifies as an introvert, I initially found networking to be a daunting task. I struggled to comprehend the necessity of attending events to connect with others and promote myself.

Over time, I recognized the value of diversifying my network and the impact that open communication could have on my professional growth. By overcoming my reluctance to engage with others, I have had the privilege of meeting numerous remarkable individuals who have profoundly influenced my life and career. This transformative experience has highlighted the importance of embracing discomfort in order to foster meaningful connections and opportunities.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

A pivotal moment in my career occurred during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic when the world shut down, and all events were abruptly canceled. Faced with uncertainty, I found myself questioning how I would sustain my livelihood and how people could continue to celebrate significant moments without in-person gatherings.

During the graduation season, I identified an opportunity to adapt by offering “graduation parties in a box,” which included customized banners and balloon packages. I also provided delivery services throughout the city. This innovative approach resonated with my clients, resulting in an overwhelming number of orders. Through this initiative, I was able to recoup much of the income I had lost during the event cancellations, demonstrating the power of adaptability in challenging times.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://avaaridesignco.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/avaaridesignco
• Facebook: https://Facebook.com/adrienneava
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrienneava?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Image Credits

Jehan LLC
Ynot Images