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

Melissa, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. The first dollar your business earns is always special and we’d love to hear how your brand made its first dollar of revenue.

In the early days of Rescue Event Planning, I knew building a portfolio and credibility would be essential to gaining clients outside of my personal network. To do this, I offered to plan three free events to showcase my expertise, create a stunning portfolio, and ask for referrals and testimonials. These events were my opportunity to prove my ability to deliver flawless, memorable experiences.

The turning point came when I received a referral from one of those free events. A guest at an event I had planned was so impressed with the attention to detail and seamless execution that they reached out to inquire about my services for their upcoming corporate holiday party. This wasn’t a friend, family member, or friend-of-a-friend—it was someone who had experienced my work firsthand and trusted me with their vision.

I still remember the excitement when the client confirmed they wanted to move forward. We scheduled a call, and they appreciated my enthusiasm, professionalism, and the creative ideas I presented. When the contract was signed, and the deposit was sent, it was a surreal moment. That first dollar was a tangible reward for the free events, late nights, and hard work I had put into building my business. It felt like a validation of my decision to pursue this passion and a glimpse of what was possible.

The event itself went off without a hitch, and I gained not only another glowing testimonial but also a deeper sense of pride in what Rescue Event Planning could achieve. That first dollar wasn’t just revenue—it was the start of a journey that proved my dream was becoming a reality.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m Melissa Jakes, the Founder and CEO of Rescue Event Planning, a full-service event management company dedicated to transforming visions into extraordinary experiences. My journey into the world of event planning started with a passion for creating unforgettable moments and a knack for organization and creativity. Early on, I discovered the joy of bringing people together, whether for celebrations, corporate events, or community gatherings. That joy sparked a dream to build a business that not only planned events but elevated them.

At Rescue Event Planning, we specialize in offering tailored solutions for a wide range of events, from corporate conferences and galas to private celebrations like weddings, baby showers, and milestone birthdays. Our services include event design, logistics, vendor management, on-site coordination, and more. We take the stress out of planning, allowing our clients to focus on enjoying their special moments.

One of the problems we solve is helping clients who feel overwhelmed by the complexity of event planning. Many people don’t have the time, expertise, or network to bring their vision to life, and that’s where we step in. Whether it’s finding the perfect venue, creating a detailed timeline, or coordinating multiple vendors, we handle it all with precision and care.

What sets us apart is our commitment to delivering not just an event but an experience. We take the time to understand our clients’ goals and dreams, ensuring every detail reflects their unique style and purpose. Additionally, we pride ourselves on being resourceful and innovative, finding creative solutions to challenges and always staying ahead of industry trends.

I’m most proud of the relationships we’ve built and the impact our events have had on our clients and their guests. Seeing their joy and hearing their heartfelt thanks is the most rewarding part of what we do. I’m also proud of the brand Rescue Event Planning has become—a trusted name for flawless execution and personalized service.

For potential clients and followers, I want you to know that Rescue Event Planning is more than a business; it’s a passion. We’re here to help you create memories that last a lifetime, whether it’s a corporate milestone or a personal celebration. Our team is dedicated to making your event stress-free, unique, and unforgettable. At Rescue Event Planning, we believe every event is an opportunity to inspire, connect, and celebrate life’s special moments. Let’s make yours extraordinary!

Have you ever had to pivot?

One of the biggest pivots I had to make with Rescue Event Planning was during the COVID-19 pandemic. Before the shutdowns, my business was thriving with in-person events—weddings, corporate gatherings, and large-scale conferences. But when the world shut down, so did my business model.

I had two choices: wait it out or innovate. I chose to pivot.

The Pivot: Virtual Events & Digital Strategy
I quickly transitioned Rescue Event Planning into a leader in virtual event production. Companies and organizations still needed to engage with their audiences, celebrate milestones, and host meaningful conversations—just in a different way. I learned everything I could about virtual platforms, interactive experiences, and digital engagement strategies.

The Impact: New Opportunities
This shift not only kept my business afloat but actually expanded my reach. I began working with clients outside of my usual region, organizing global virtual summits, online fundraisers, and hybrid events. It also opened doors to consulting opportunities, helping brands rethink how they engage their audiences in a post-pandemic world.

Lesson Learned
Adaptability is everything. When faced with unexpected challenges, the businesses that survive are the ones that evolve with the moment. That experience reinforced my belief that Rescue Event Planning isn’t just about logistics—it’s about creating experiences, no matter the format.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

One of the most intense moments in my journey happened when The White House confirmed with my client just three days before the event. Yes, 72 hours to pull off an event that should have taken weeks, if not months, to finalize. Instead of panicking, I immediately shifted into solution mode. I mapped out everything that needed to happen—venue logistics, security protocols, guest coordination, media involvement, and every tiny detail that comes with a high-stakes event. I leaned on my vendor relationships, streamlined communication, and worked around the clock to ensure everything was flawless. Despite the event’s last-minute confirmation, tight timeline, and high-profile nature, we pulled it off seamlessly. My client was thrilled, and most importantly, the experience reinforced what I already knew: Resilience is about being ready for anything; Grace under pressure is the difference between success and failure; A strong network and problem-solving mindset make the impossible possible.

In the world of events, you can plan for months, but sometimes, the most significant moments come down to how fast you can pivot and execute. This experience solidified my belief that Rescue Event Planning isn’t just about organizing events—it’s about creating solutions under pressure.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rescueeventplanning.com
• Instagram: Rescue_events
• Facebook: Rescue Event Planning
• Linkedin: Rescue Event Planning

Image Credits

Ashley Jean