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

Alright, Monic thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Coming up with the idea is so exciting, but then comes the hard part – executing. Too often the media ignores the execution part and goes from idea to success, skipping over the nitty, gritty details of executing in the early days. We think that’s a disservice both to the entrepreneurs who built something amazing as well as the public who isn’t getting a realistic picture of what it takes to succeed. So, we’d really appreciate if you could open up about your execution story – how did you go from idea to execution?

My journey into the world of posh picnics began quite unexpectedly. While scrolling through Pinterest last January, I stumbled upon a stunning image of a luxury picnic spread in Italy. It was then that a spark ignited within me, a desire to create unforgettable experiences for others.

The next step was thorough research. I investigated the competitive landscape, analyzing businesses both in my state and globally. This research phase was valuable as it provided insight into what was trending, what packages should offer, successful marketing strategies, and the reality of running a business like this one.

Armed with the knowledge, I embarked on the creative process. I spent countless hours crafting a unique brand identity, designing a logo, selecting a name that was suited to my vision, and applying for a business license. Sourcing initial inventory was admittedly, a lot of fun! Getting items from both, Etsy, and thrift stores to ensure I had unique pieces to offer.

To perfect my skills and build my confidence, I practiced setting up picnics in my own front yard and living room. Taking pictures for reference of how I would make it look better moving forward. After obtaining all of the necessary items, I then offered a complimentary anniversary setup to close friends. This helped me gather valuable feedback and generate authentic content.

By the end of February, I had launched my official online presence with a website I designed through Wix, engaging in social media platforms, and a stack of professional business cards and brochures that I designed myself. I also secured my first business connection with a local winery, a significant milestone that helped solidify my commitment to this idea brought to life.

This journey has been a whirlwind of passion and dedication. As a working mother of two, I often found/find myself working late after my kids were put to bed so my time with them wasn’t disrupted, to bring my vision to life. However, the prospect of creating unforgettable moments for others fueled my drive and made the long hours worth while.

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

My name is Monic, a 27 year old mother of two with a lifelong dream of owning my own event venue. While that dream is still on the horizon, I’ve found a fulfilling passion in creating unforgettable experiences through my posh picnic business. Though, I’m not yet a full-time business owner, I’ve achieved remarkable growth in my first year, procuring over 40 picnics (some are even repeat clients), despite operating primarily on weekends.

My passion for creating beautiful and memorable experiences ignited when I encountered the concept of luxury picnics in Italy on a Pinterest board. This was the best way I could channel my passion and talents while building a relationship within the community of what I can do for when I do someday transition this into my lifelong dream of owning/running an event venue.

We specialize in curating bespoke picnic experiences, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. We handle every detail, from selecting exquisite décor and fine china to coordinating logistics and ensuring seamless setup and tear down. Our services extend beyond the basic picnic, encompassing a range of enhancements such as heated bubble tents, projector setups, and personalized décor requests. We also collaborate with local photographers to capture those special moments.

What truly sets us apart is our commitment to exceeding client expectations. We prioritize personalized service, ensuring that every detail reflects their unique vision. By handling all aspects of the event, from vendor communication to on-site coordination, we aim to alleviate the stress and allow our clients to simply enjoy the celebration.

As a solopreneur, I pour my heart and soul into every project. This past year has been an incredible journey of growth, filled with valuable lessons and rewarding experiences. I’m incredibly proud of the trust and positive feedback I’ve received from my clients on Facebook reviews, being nominated into the Community Votes Yakima business awards, and being awarded with the silver award in the Events and Party Planning category.

Ultimately, my goal is the create lasting memories for my clients, one beautifully curated picnic at a time.

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

Building a strong social media presence has been a key focus for Perry & Co. Posh Picnics. Within my first year, I’ve cultivated a community of over 1400 followers on Facebook and over 850 followers on Instagram. This is a true testament to the power of consistent effort and engaging content.

My social media journey began organically, alongside my first official picnic setup. Early on, I started using a the power of a good giveaway, encouraging followers to invite friends and share my posts for a chance to win. Collaborating with other local businesses on larger giveaways proved incredibly effective, expanding my reach significantly.

I’ve prioritized consistent posting, utilizing scheduling tools to streamline content creation and maintain a regular presence. Engaging with my audience through interactive polls and stories has fostered a sense of community.

Above all, consistency has been paramount. Just as Rome wasn’t built in a day, building a strong social media presence takes time and dedication. By consistently sharing high quality content, engaging with my followers, and collaborating with other businesses, I’ve been able to build a thriving online community that supports the growth of my business.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Building a strong reputation within the Yakima Valley has so many factors. A key factor has been proactively seeking collaborative opportunities. I’ve consistently reached out to local businesses (wineries, breweries, cafes, etc.), to explore potential partnerships and create memorable experiences together. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to encounter enthusiastic support from these established community businesses.

Furthermore, client testimonials on my business Facebook page has played a pivotal role in building trust and credibility. Sharing authentic feedback from clients provides potential customers with valuable proof of experience.

Finally, participating in local markets has been instrumental in raising brand awareness. These events offer a valuable platform to connect with potential clients face to face, sharing my passion for creating bespoke experiences, and showcase my work in real time.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.perryandcopicnics.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perryandcoposhpicnics?igsh=YTFtZnU1bWNvejRs&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1GjHQfrGUv/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Image Credits

Wild Bloom Photography
Lovelola Photos
Ashley Lukehart Photography
Kiera Rae Photos
Lexi Cornella Photography
Ab photography