We were lucky to catch up with Holly Peterson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Holly, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear how you think where to draw the line in terms of asking friends and family to support your business – what’s okay and what’s over the line?

When I founded Wanderlust Event Company, I knew it would take more than just passion, creativity, and expertise to make my dream thrive—it would take the unwavering support of my family and friends. From day one, they’ve been my cheerleaders, motivators, and most loyal referral partners, helping me transform my vision into reality.

At Wanderlust Event Company, relationships are at the core of everything we do. We pride ourselves on building strong connections with clients, showcasing creativity that brings their unique visions to life, and delivering reliability that fosters trust. This commitment to excellence isn’t just for our clients—it’s a reflection of the relationships I’ve cultivated with my family and friends, whose belief in me inspires the same dedication to those we serve.

The support of loved ones extends far beyond words of encouragement. Whether they’re spreading the word about my services, recommending Wanderlust to others, or simply showing up to celebrate milestones, their impact is immeasurable. Each referral they make is a testament to their confidence in my ability to create exceptional experiences.

As I continue to grow Wanderlust Event Company, I’m reminded daily that my success is rooted in the connections I cherish. Family and friends aren’t just a part of my personal journey—they are an integral part of my business. Their trust in me drives me to elevate every event, ensuring that each client feels just as supported and cared for as I do by the people who mean the most to me.

Together, we’ve built more than a business—we’ve created a community where relationships flourish and dreams come to life. And for that, I’ll always be grateful.

Holly, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hi, I’m Holly Peterson, the owner and heart behind Wanderlust Event Company. I’ve always been drawn to the magic of bringing people together, and after over a decade of experience in the event industry; spanning hotel event management, venue sales, catering, and more, I knew it was time to channel my passion into my own venture. Originally from Atlanta, I moved to St. Pete five years ago, inspired by its vibrant energy, creative spirit, and stunning beaches.

At Wanderlust Event Company, we specialize in designing and executing luxury weddings, corporate gatherings, and social events. From the initial spark of an idea to the final touches as your event concludes, my team and I are with you every step of the way. Our goal is to handle the logistics, so you can focus on creating and celebrating cherished memories.

What sets Wanderlust apart is our commitment to personalization and the belief that every client’s story is unique. I take pride in diving into the details, building genuine relationships with my clients, and taking the time to deeply understand your vision to bring it to life in a way that feels authentic to you. Whether it’s finding the perfect venue, curating a one-of-a-kind theme, or orchestrating every detail so the event feels effortless, I’m here to take the stress out of planning and leave room for the fun times!

I’m incredibly proud of the trust my clients place in me to craft these monumental moments in their lives. Nothing beats the feeling of seeing their smiles when they walk into a space that’s even more magical than they imagined.

To anyone considering Wanderlust Event Company, I want you to know that your celebration is as important to me as it is to you. Whether it’s an intimate gathering or an extravagant affair, I’ll pour my heart into making it extraordinary. Let’s create something together that reflects your story, your style, and your dreams.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building an audience on social media has been a journey rooted in authenticity and connection. For Wanderlust Event Company, it was important for me to share not just the services we offer but also who I am but the person behind the business. Sharing glimpses of my life—whether it’s my love for traveling, beach days with my golden retriever Finnley, or my guilty pleasures like Dr. Pepper and gummy bears on event days that has allowed my audience to see me as more than just a wedding and event planner. It’s these little details that humanize my brand and make people feel like they already know me before we even meet.

Consistency has also been key. Posting regularly and engaging with my audience by responding to comments, messages, and even their content has helped build that trust significantly. I don’t just post polished pictures of past events; I also share behind-the-scenes moments, advice, and the joy that goes into creating every event. I celebrate the couples I work with, and I make an effort to tell their stories, which adds an emotional element to my content.

For anyone starting to build their social media presence, my advice is to focus on authenticity. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through because people connect with people, not just businesses. Share what makes you unique and why you’re passionate about what you do. Be consistent but also be patient because building an audience takes time, but the connections you make will be worth it. Lastly, never underestimate the power of showing gratitude; acknowledge and celebrate your followers and clients, as they’re the ones helping you grow.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

At Wanderlust Event Company, one of the most effective strategies for growing our clientele has been networking and actively building relationships within the event industry. Joining networking groups like SWEL (Suncoast Wedding & Event Leaders) and Wed Society has provided incredible opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals who share the same passion for creating memorable events. These groups not only offer education and camaraderie but also open doors to valuable collaborations.

Attending bridal shows and vendor showcases has been another vital strategy, allowing us to showcase our work directly to potential clients while fostering connections with other vendors. It’s a chance to highlight our unique style and build trust with both clients and industry peers.

Social media has also played a key role. Consistently posting our work, celebrating our successes, and engaging with others in the industry helps showcase our expertise and creativity while keeping Wanderlust Event Company visible to new clients.

I firmly believe in the philosophy of “community over competition.” The wedding and event industry thrives when we lift each other up, recognizing that there is enough work for everyone because we all excel in different aspects of the field. Having a trusted group of vendors to turn to for support, guidance, or even just to unwind after a busy weekend has been invaluable. This sense of collaboration and mutual respect has not only helped grow my business but has also made this journey more rewarding.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.wanderlusteventcompany.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderlusteventcompany/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wanderlusteventcompany/
• Other: https://tampa.wedsociety.com/vendors/wanderlust-event-company/ https://www.suncoastweddingsandevents.com/vendor-directory#planning

Image Credits
Regina the Photographer Limelight Photography