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

Hi Kaylon, thanks for joining us today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.

Recently I decided to take a huge risk and leave my full-time career in fundraising for personal reasons and to focus more on my business – Beck&Call Hospitality. It has been the most fearful, challenging yet fulfilling and eye opening experience over the past 9 months. There has been a constant mixture of emotions – wondering if I did the right thing or if I should have stayed at the organization just a little bit longer. The truth is, there was never going to be a perfect time, I just had to do it. I am thankful for the support system and guidance I have received during this time. Taking this risk has taught me a lot about believing in myself, self-discipline, striving for personal growth and running a legitimate business. Nine months later and I can honestly say, it has probably been my best decision so far.

Kaylon, 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 am Kaylon Beck – Founder & Event Planner of Beck&Call Hospitality – whose mission is to Redefine Hospitality Through A Cultural Lens. We currently curate and plan cultural, community – focused events within the city of Houston with plans of opening a bed and breakfast to host these events and provide a creative hub for small businesses alike. I was introduced to this industry during my senior year in high school when applying for the University of Houston Hilton College Hospitality Management Program. While a student there, I had the opportunity to network with great peers and industry leaders and also intern and work for reputable companies such as: Pappas Restaurants, Landry’s, Aramark, Music World Entertainment, Chic Soiree Weddings & Events and City Kitchen Catering.

Upon graduation, I started my first event planning company focusing on intimate weddings and celebrations. During this time, I also entered into the non profit sector working for AmeriCorps and then the Hotel & Lodging Association of Greater Houston. In 2017, I was accepted into the Howard University School of Business MBA program and moved to Washington, D.C. to achieve my goal of receiving an MBA. While there, I met some amazing people who are now life long friends in my network. I also had the opportunity to expand my experience in hospitality through working for Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, being selected as a hospitality liaison for the SuperBowl and planning the inaugural Howard University School of Business Sports & Entertainment Summit. During my final semester, I gained more non-profit experience in the development sector through working for The Obama Foundation.

Upon gradutaion, I returned to Houston and that is when Beck&Call Hospitality was born. During my time of looking for work, I particpated in several local small business programs that helped to form the mission statement and business plan. Since then, I have been able to launch a successful crowdfunding campaign, grow my following + build my brand and receive a grant through Black Girl Ventures to sustain my business.

Through the mission, it is our hope to provide a safe, hospitable space for travelers and locals within the community to enjoy the richness and authenticity of historic communities. Often times, many minorities (specifically Black travelers) do not feel safe and/or marketed to when travelling. We are hoping to be a part of that change and shift the narrative. Through our events, we have collaborated with several brands, artists and organizations to promote engaging programming for all. During this phase of the business we are fundraising and seeking investors to purchase a property where we can incorporate events and lodging into one space.

Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?

One of the top priorities when starting the business was making sure that we remained transparant throughtout the process. From the beginning, we have shared communication about our ups and downs, planned events and local happenings through our monthly newsletters. Occasionally I provide a founder update to my followers and audience about what stage we are at in obtaining a property and the future plans we have. We have received great feedback on these newsletters from those withtin our community and I believe that is because oftentimes founders are not as open along their journies. However, this is the information others business owners and supporters need to hear. People appreciate transparancy and honesty when it comes from an authentic place. I believe, that is what has grown Beck&Call Hospitality’s brand loyalty.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

During the early stages of forming my business, someone referred me to a a great resource called iFundWomen. iFundWomen is a funding platform for women entrepreneurs providing access to capital through crowdfunding and small business grants. After doing much research and integrating my fundraising experience, my team and I planned and launched a successful crowdfunding campaign on the platform. Our goal was to raise $25,000 in 3 months. Although we did not reach the goal, we were still able to raise $11,000. I am proud of this achievement because these were donations made soley from friends and family. We were also able to test and find out what worked and what did not work. iFundWomen also provided essential tips to push the campaign and provide feedback throughout the campaign.

This crowdfunding campaign was a great learning experience. There were great takeaways that we have implemented in day to day marketing and operations. It also encouraged me as a founder to learn more about different ways to access capital/funding for my business.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.yourbeckandcall.co/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckandcallhospitality/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beckandcallhospitality
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beck-call-hospitality/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCARwVvKswD8GQezcLqJCFpw

Image Credits
Photography: Cameron Washington