We were lucky to catch up with Cris Joseph recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Cris, thanks for joining us today. What’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for you?

My friends threw me a ” surprise” wedding. They gave me a few dates to pick from and then handled all of the details from then on. They asked me and my fiance’ for an invite list and asked what colors we liked but I didn’t have any further input. I’ve known these women for over 20 years and we are always there for each others milestones, setbacks, grief and joy. I have been a professional event planner for over 28 years and usually I am involved in planning all the baby showers, birthdays, memorials, and parties. My friends were so kind and giving to put together a full wedding for me and our family that I cannot explain how generous that gift is. I had no stress and was surrounded by love and an outpouring of generosity.

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

My motto is “Make it Happen.” I have been in the Special Event Industry for 28 years, beginning when I worked at the Muscular Dystrophy Association doing about 100 events a year. We did everything from Hop-a-Thongs to Golf Tournaments to Galas and of course the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon. I then worked for nearly 20 years in Event Rentals, designing events of all sizes from backyard weddings to large scale 80,000 sq ft. tented corporate events. My specialty was always going “beyond the ballroom” and creating events in the most unusual places. In 2022, I began working at a gorgeous venue, San Diego Wine & Culinary Center and I’ve been able to continue to make events happen for local, national and international corporate groups while putting together special celebrations for couples and families in San Diego.

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

My phone number has been the same since 2001. I give my cell number out to every client, friend and acquaintance. I am quick to respond to people and if I cannot help them, I will do my best to connect them with someone who can help. I had a friend who needed 100 purple umbrellas and said that they may be located at Wal-Marts in the city. I went to all my area stores to collect as many as I could for her. I had a client who needed to save a parking space for her event so I got up early and parked my car in the space so that we could move it later that night. If it’s within my power, I will try to find a way to do it. I really enjoy coming through for others and when I can make someone’s day easier, I do my best. The reputation that I have for “showing up” for others has served me well in my professional and personal life. I don’t see it as transactional — I did this for you so you owe me. That’s not the right attitude. I truly believe that the more good you do for others, the better you will be for yourself.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

I believe that the most important part of social media is offering support and encouragement online. People are reaching out and letting them know that you see them and hear them is important. I love connecting with people and lifting them up with positivity. Being truthful is really important and I hate to say the word, but being authentic is paramount. People can see a phony and they will not respond to that. When my friend or even competitor is doing well, I will comment and share with others. This strategy has helped me build an audience as well as helped me connect to people in real life (IRL.) Simple comments on people’s posts can make brighten their day and make their interactions with children or loved ones more positive. The ripples of kindness when given can be quite powerful.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @crisjoseph
• Linkedin: Cris Joseph