We recently connected with Caroline Calleja and have shared our conversation below.

Caroline, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to go back in time and hear the story of how you came up with the name of your brand?

The Name Behind Protea Event Planners
The name “Protea Event Planners” is inspired by the protea flower, a symbol deeply rooted in South Africa. The protea, known for its unique and striking appearance, represents transformation, diversity, and resilience—qualities that perfectly align with our approach to event planning.

Choosing the name “Protea Event Planners” is more than a nod to my heritage; it embodies the values we uphold. Just as the protea flower adapts and thrives in various environments, we specialize in crafting extraordinary events that adapt to our clients’ unique needs and visions.

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

From the vibrant streets of Johannesburg, South Africa, to the serene shores of Greenport, New York and then the historic charm of Frederick Maryland, my journey through the food, beverage, and event management industry has been nothing short of a whirlwind adventure. I have dedicated the past 13 years to mastering the art of creating unforgettable dining experiences and executing flawless events, small and large.

My career began in South Africa, where I honed my skills in various roles that laid the foundation for my future successes and provided me with a deep understanding of the business side of hospitality.

The journey continued as I ventured into the hospitality world on an international stage and a true testament to my commitment to excellence and innovation.

My most recent role as Director of Catering at a seaside restaurant on Long Island was a significant learning experience and a catalyst for starting my own business. This role, coupled with my family’s decision to relocate to Maryland, marked a new chapter in both my personal and professional life.

Throughout my career, I have been driven by a passion for excellence and a commitment to delivering unparalleled service. My experience has equipped me with the skills to lead high-performing teams, manage complex events, and exceed client expectations. I am known for my ability to build strong client relationships and for my dedication to this career I have chosen.

Today, as I reflect on my journey, I am proud of the milestones I have achieved and the impact I have made in the hospitality industry. My career has been a testament to my dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Building my reputation in the Maryland market required relentless effort and a proactive approach. As a newcomer to both the area and entrepreneurship, I dedicated myself to immersing in the local business community. I attended every networking event, visited storefronts to introduce myself, and worked alongside other professionals as an assistant to connect with vendors and industry peers. These initiatives significantly boosted my credibility and established a strong foundation for my business in a competitive market.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Throughout my journey, there have been countless moments when I felt like giving up. As a woman and an immigrant from South Africa, my husband and I have faced the unique challenge of building our lives here without a support network. What keeps me going is my unwavering drive to set an example for my twin boys. I want them to see that if their mom can navigate the complexities of motherhood while running a business and managing multiple side jobs, they can accomplish anything they set their minds to. It’s a balancing act, but I truly believe that the world is your oyster, and you are the pearl. Every challenge is an opportunity for growth, and I am determined to demonstrate resilience every step of the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.proteaeventplanners.com/
• Instagram: Protea_event_planners
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16Ppoby4tN/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Image Credits

Melkay Photography
Heather Pauline Photography