We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Katie Keegstra. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Katie below.

Katie, appreciate you joining us today. The first dollar your business earns is always special and we’d love to hear how your brand made its first dollar of revenue.

When I first launched my business, I did what I thought I was supposed to do. I partnered with other vendors, showed up to countless networking events, and put myself out there as much as possible. For three months straight, I didn’t receive a single inquiry. Not one.
That season was incredibly confusing. I felt like I was doing everything “right,” yet nothing was happening. I started questioning myself and wondering if I was failing. During that time, I leaned heavily into prayer. I prayed for my future clients, and for clarity on the true plan God had for the business I felt He had called me to start. Even when I couldn’t see progress, I held onto faith.
Then one day in August, everything changed. I received six inquiries all on the same day. I couldn’t believe it. I immediately booked meetings with each of them… and all six became clients.
When I met with them, I didn’t try to put on a show or be someone I wasn’t. Authenticity has always been extremely important to me. My goal is to be the same person on the phone as I am in person — genuine, transparent, and real. I truly believe that honesty and consistency are what built the trust that turned those first inquiries into my very first clients.

Katie, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I got into the industry when I was in high school. I worked at a bridal shop and completely fell in love with weddings; the emotion, the excitement, and the once-in-a-lifetime moments. Even back then, I would tell everyone that one day I was going to start my own planning business.
That dream eventually became Beloved Events and Rentals. We provide full wedding and event planning services, partial planning and day-of coordination, along with a rental department to make the entire process seamless for our clients. Our goal is to give couples the tools, guidance, and support they need while taking the stress off their shoulders, both during the planning process and on the wedding day itself.
One thing that makes us unique is our rental department. We help eliminate the dreaded “wedding room”, no stacks of décor boxes taking over your home after the big day. Instead, our clients can enjoy beautiful, thoughtfully curated pieces without the long-term clutter or added stress.
Above all, we are here to make the engagement season and wedding day as joyful and peaceful as possible. We truly want the best for our clients and their families. We understand that while this is one of the biggest days in a couple’s life, it’s also incredibly meaningful for their families. Our heart is for everyone to feel present, relaxed, and able to fully enjoy the celebration.

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

What helped me build my reputation within my market was staying genuine in every interaction and focusing on real relationships over transactions. I’ve always believed that people can tell when you’re being authentic, and that trust is the foundation of any strong reputation.
I’ve also been very intentional about my conversations, not just with clients, but with other vendors as well. With clients, I take the time to truly listen, understand their needs, and communicate clearly so they feel supported and valued. With fellow vendors, I prioritize collaboration over competition, building mutually respectful relationships that strengthen the overall experience for everyone involved.
Being genuine and having intentional conversations has allowed me to build trust, create meaningful connections, and establish a reputation rooted in integrity and professionalism.

Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?

How I started Beloved Events and Rentals is what most people would call a “God thing,” and I would have to agree.
Before starting my business, I worked at event venues where I learned so much, how to handle fast-paced environments, manage timelines, and navigate difficult situations with grace. Those experiences shaped me more than I realized at the time. In May of 2024, I began to feel unfulfilled at work. I found myself constantly wondering if God wanted me to stay where I was or if He was preparing me for something new. One night, I prayed for clarity. The very next day, I went into work, and God gave me more than enough clarity. I knew it was time to walk away. So I quit my job the next day with nothing lined up.
“Walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7)
When I stepped out in faith, a weight lifted off my shoulders. But then came the question: What’s next?
During that season of waiting, I continued to pray and seek direction. One thing led to another, and at just 20 years old, I felt God calling me to start a business. I told Him that if I was going to do this, it would be for Him. God calls us to be His hands and feet — to share His goodness and glorify Him in everything we do. I promised Him He would always be my business partner. And He has been. I have never felt more fulfilled in my career, and more importantly, in my relationship with Christ. Long story short, my business partner met me exactly where I was and completely changed my life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://beloved-events.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/belovedeventsrentals/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16NDbgYbpC/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Other: https://linktr.ee/Belovedeventsrentals

Image Credits

1-Allison Vollink Photog
2-Beloved Jpeg
3- Rylee Makenna Photography
4- Kelly Jo Photography
5- Rebeca Lyn Photograph and Film