We recently connected with Anna Wise and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Anna thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What do you think matters most in terms of achieving success?

When I assess other individuals or businesses, I consider two key factors in gauging their success. The first, which is readily discernible, is the quality of their work. Being a part of the wedding industry, our work is profoundly artistic and visually impactful. Photography and videography are integral to our field like no other. When I come across a new business, similar to many others, my initial instinct is to browse their social media accounts to evaluate the caliber of their output. Does it radiate creativity and originality? Does it uphold a standard of grace and sophistication? Or rather, is it dull an mundane? Is it cheap and hurried?

The second, and quite possibly of even greater significance in assessing success, involves an examination of the principles and ethics held by an individual or business. Do they demonstrate kindness and respect in their interactions with others? When they make mistakes, are they willing to take accountability? Do they exhibit a willingness to collaborate joyfully with others?

When I search for individuals with whom I wish to collaborate, I pay attention to both the excellence of their work and the essence of their character. Consequently, I am committed to producing high-quality work and maintaining a cheerful and respectful demeanor, in my pursuit of success.

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

Anna Kay & Co. is a team of planners and designers offering full service event planning, design and coordination for weddings and social events. We create events in the Midwest and call Northeast Ohio home. Our goal is to create an individual experience for you and guide you in designing beautiful memories. Whether it’s a wedding, bridal shower or social gala, we will take care of you from beginning to end.

My journey into the wedding industry began during my college years, and I quickly discovered a passion for it. It turned out to be the perfect avenue for channeling both my creative talents and my meticulous Type A personality. From that point on, I have been dedicated to planning and coordinating weddings.

As the Founder and Lead Planner, I strive to craft elegant events and experiences with designs that evoke the most heartwarming emotions. And am unwavering in my commitment to ensuring that everyone feels cared for throughout the entire process.

Anna Kay & Co. provides both full service planning & design for the couples who welcome assistance from beginning to end. We put a strong emphasis on design as that’s where we believe we stick out. We lean into sophisticated and timeless designs pulling inspiration from the world around us. We also offer coordination services for your final 6-8 weeks of planning when you might need someone to take the reigns and allow you to relax on and leading up to the event.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

The key to establishing my presence in the market was highlighting my unique style. As a newcomer in the creative industry, it was vital that my content resonated with the essence of my business and the standard of my work. I allocated a significant portion of my initial investment into crafting “styled shoots” that allowed me to collaborate with peers in my field, effectively exhibiting my design capabilities. I then leveraged the content from these shoots across my social media platforms and website, offering a tangible glimpse into the quality of work I could deliver. This approach effectively conveyed my capabilities to prospective clients.

We’d love to hear the story of how you turned a side-hustle into a something much bigger.

My side gig is steadily transitioning into my primary career. I quickly realized that the conventional 9-5 office routine wasn’t my calling and wasted no time in taking action. I launched Anna Kay & Co. within just two months of starting in the corporate world. I understand that numerous small businesses are born as side ventures, and if you find yourself in this situation, I want to encourage you that your enterprise is every bit as legitimate, professional, and authentic.

When people inquire about your livelihood, don’t limit your response to your full-time job; proudly share the story of your small business journey as well.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.annakayandcompany.com/
• Instagram: @annakayandcompany
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/anna-wise

Image Credits
Marissa Belle Photography