According to Google, a blog is defined as: "a regularly updated website or web page, typically one run by an individual or small group, that is written in an informal or conversational style."
Well, I guess I fit the description! I'm an individual (check), I plan to update this blog regularly (check), and I’ll be writing it in a conversational style (check). Looks like I’ve just added another title to my never-ending list of roles. Awesome, right?
I’ve decided to start "blogging" about all things wedding-related—content that will help couples in the Chicago area while also documenting my own journey as a wedding detailer, aka wedding planner (more on that later). My story might not be vastly different or more unique than anyone else’s, but I find that writing helps me decompress—and hey, even if I’m not the best at it, I’m giving it a go!
So, I think it’s only right to start by telling you a little about me and how I got here...
A Little Background: From Ohio Beginnings to Chicago Hustles
It all started in the 1980s when my parents… just kidding, we don’t need to go back that far! But for perspective, I grew up in Columbus, Ohio, as a middle child of five. This is where my love of organization began. In a big family, there was always something happening—someone getting into trouble, a sibling rivalry in full swing, or a family event on the calendar. Naturally, I became the equalizer and organizer. I took my role seriously, and to this day, I despise being late! (Pro tip: I used to tell my family events started half an hour earlier than they actually did—still works on my boyfriend, too!)
As a young girl, I also had a knack for entrepreneurship. Coming from a below-blue-collar family, I always wanted to "make it." At the time, I didn’t know what that meant, but I knew I wanted more for myself and my family. So, at around age 10, I launched my first business: Party Time Planners. My target market? The entire neighborhood! I printed business cards on a friend’s computer and dropped them in door frames, complete with my Mickey Mouse balloon logo!
College and Mentors: The Catalyst for My Passion
Fast forward to college, and I found some amazing mentors who helped me grow my knowledge of events and weddings exponentially. These boss ladies taught me everything from corporate event planning to wedding industry secrets, and I’m fortunate to still be in contact with them today. Through their guidance, I gained experience in corporate events, destination management, wedding planning, and even hotel operations.
Each experience along the way has given me a deeper understanding of the industry, which I now call the "hospitality umbrella."
My Big Move: Chicago in 2010
In 2010, Chicago came calling with an opportunity at Marriott hotels, and without hesitation, I uprooted and moved to the Windy City. Eight years later, I’m still here and believe it’s the best city in the States! While working for some of Chicago’s great institutions, my entrepreneurial spirit continued to nag at me. I kept thinking, "Go for it!" But like many of us, I was nervous, unsure, and too scared to leave the security of a full-time job.
So, I did what many of us do—I started a side hustle. I planned weddings in addition to my regular job, which was exhausting. My side hustle was doing well, but not quite enough to leave my main job.
The Leap of Faith: Turning a Layoff into Opportunity
Now, if you know me, you know I believe that everything happens for a reason. It sounds cliché, but I live by it. My last job wasn’t where I wanted to be—I was unhappy, working long hours, and feeling unappreciated. But the pay was good, so I stuck with it.
Then, I was laid off. And instead of being devastated, I felt... relief. In that moment, I knew I was exactly where I was supposed to be. My side hustle? It just went full-time!
That’s not to say it was all smooth sailing. It wasn’t unicorns and rainbows—I was nervous (and still am sometimes). But working for myself, knowing that every dollar earned or not is a direct result of my own output, feels incredible. I get to run my wedding planning company my way, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
My Support System: The Backbone of My Success
None of this would be possible without my support system. At the top of that chain is my best friend and amazing boyfriend, Angelo. He has been my biggest fan from day one and always talks me off the ledge when I need it! I thank God every day for putting him in my life.
The Journey Continues: Tionna, Entrepreneur and Blogger
So, here I am—Tionna. I’m an entrepreneur, a wedding detailer, a dog-lover, a sister, a daughter, a friend, a girlfriend, a runner, a chocolate addict, a beer and coffee snob, a wine enthusiast, a realist, a romantic, a nervous wreck, a dreamer, a business owner, and now... a blogger.
If you’d like to continue following my journey and receive wedding advice, follow me here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wedicity/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wedicity_chi/
Photo Credit: Floyd McCraney
Author: Tionna Van Gundy | Wedicity - Wedding Day Detailing
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