We recently had the chance to connect with Allison McDonald and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Allison, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I love to plan travel and trips! It requires many of the same skills that I use in the wedding planning business but it’s different enough that it brings relaxation and joy. Making itineraries on Excel spreadsheets, booking transportation, keeping up with tickets to attractions, researching the local food scene….I love it all! Most recently I planned a trip to the UK for my family and we had a blast!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Allison, owner and lead planner for Flourish Events. I am in my 16th year of business, which doesn’t seem real, but here we are! I love what I do….but then, who wouldn’t love getting to share in life’s most special moments with wonderful couples and their families? I never take it for granted and value every aspect…whether it’s picking out linens, curating a budget or stepping up with creative solutions for minor emergencies. It’s a gift to work with so many talented local vendors to create beautiful spaces, timeless memories, and days of joy.
When I’m not working, I love sipping London Fog lattes at local coffee shops, planning and taking trips, hosting charcuterie-forward social gatherings, and spending a small fortune on prix fixe tasting menus.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
I have had so many special colleagues and mentors throughout this journey but my first real event job was with Carlton-Werremeyer and owner, Susan was a huge part of where I am today. As I look back on who I was back then, I’m not sure that *I* would have hired me but she took a chance on recent college graduate without much to offer except a true desire to learn everything about the world of events. Through that experience I got to be a part of some of the most amazing events in St. Louis. She taught me so much about professionalism, attention to detail, and the ABC rule of events “always be calm.” I think that phrase is running through my head at almost every wedding I do now! We worked together for over ten years and the team she assembled still gathers regularly to reminisce, regale each other with crazy event stories and share resources and advice. I’ll always be grateful for the relationships and experience gained from my time with Susan!
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Covid was the most challenging time for my business. There were so many unknowns and the hospitality industry was one of the hardest hit. It was tempting to fold it up and pursue a different direction but the time away made me realize how much I really missed it and wanted to fight to make sure the company could continue when the dust settled. Five years later and we’re still going strong! It’s a good reminder that even the hardest challenges can be survived you come back stronger on the other side!
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
We’re getting better about it but I think there has been a tendency especially among planners to do everything alone. It’s so much better when we are able to collaborate and support each other. The relationships I’ve built with other planners and others in the industry is invaluable my success personally and professionally. It gives me so much peace of mind to realize I can email or text a trusted friend in the industry and and that they will probably have an answer or be able to give me good feedback. It really takes the stress off and make it more fun knowing you have a group of talented colleagues that have your back no matter what. Don’t be an island and don’t be afraid to let “competitors” support you!
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
Hopefully, that I cared a lot about family, friends and clients and placed a higher value on relationships and the wellbeing of others more than the bottom line or the commercial success of my company. All of those things are nice but it’s not what lasts or should matter in the end. I’ve always been more excited by the feeling of seeing family and friends enjoying special moments than meeting a sales goal and I hope that is evident even when the doors close!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://flourishstl.com
- Instagram: flourish_events
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/flourisheventsstl
Image Credits
Jacoby Andrick
Shannon Duggan
Elise Dunn
Chosen Photography
Maggie Adams
Julia Nowack
