Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Carla Kozen. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Carla, thanks for joining us today. undefined

When I started Carla Danielle Marketing LLC, innovation wasn’t a choice; it was survival. I needed to keep working, but also wanted the flexibility to keep my daughter home, knowing childcare was expensive and that I wanted those first two years to bond with her while my husband worked full-time. Building my own event business allowed me to work remotely, care for Kyla, and juggle planning around her schedule.

One example of innovation came through my work with the Tampa Housing Authority. I transformed back-to-school drives and holiday celebrations into experiences that connected residents with local sponsors, small businesses, and nonprofits. These events felt like major city activations but were designed to fit tight budgets and community needs.

For me, innovation has always been about creating solutions within constraints, finding ways to build impact, opportunity, and connection while balancing both family and business needs.

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

I’m Carla Mitchell Kozen, formerly Carla Danielle Mitchell, which inspired the name of my company, Carla Danielle Marketing LLC. I started my business out of necessity and passion. After being laid off, I needed flexible work that allowed me to support my family while keeping my daughter home during her early years.

I initially focused on marketing but pivoted into events after an opportunity with my client, the Tampa Housing Authority. That pivot revealed not only how strong I am at event planning but also how much I enjoy it compared to social media marketing. Since then, I’ve produced community activations, groundbreakings, and brand launches that stretch budgets, bring in sponsors, and deliver polished experiences that make a lasting impact.

I’m proud that I built a business that supports both my family and the communities I serve. At the heart of my work is creating events and stories that connect people and make them feel part of something bigger.

Have you ever had to pivot?

Right before maternity leave, I was laid off from my role as a social media manager. Pregnant and so close to my due date, I didn’t want to start applying for new roles, so I took time to regroup and focus on becoming a mom.

That pause opened a new door. One meeting with the Tampa Housing Authority led to an opportunity in event planning, and what started as a single project became a full pivot into a career I love. Since then, referrals have kept me busy while allowing me to be present as a mom and wife. I truly enjoy what I do. My mom has been instrumental in helping us with Kyla when I have events.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

A lesson I had to unlearn was hustle culture. Before, I worked around the clock and thought that was the only way to succeed. My father’s passing reminded me how short life is and how important it is to be present. Now I make intentional time for my family: my mom, my husband, my daughter, and others I love. Yes, I need to work, but I’ve set boundaries where my phone is down and I’m fully present. I’ve even said no to opportunities so I could take the trip or simply be home being mom. That shift has made me healthier and more fulfilled in both work and life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://carladaniellemarketing.my.canva.site/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carladaniellemarketingllc/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carladaniellemarketing
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/carla-danielle-marketing-llc/?viewAsMember=true

Image Credits

Ashley Izquierdo, Barbara Walsh Photography, Clowe Captures, Raining Grace Photography