Tell us a little about yourself and what you do.
I am Onecia Van Blommestein, born and raised in the Northern Suburbs of Cape Town. I have always loved being creative and playing around with colours; this grew into the love for planning and creating events. I’m a millennial entrepreneur, wife, and mom. My new baby is called Hello Bridal & Events and we specialise in wedding and event planning and styling.
How old is your business now?
Hello Bridal & Events was born November 2020, after being retrenched due to COVID-19.
How did you come up with the idea of and name for your business?
I initially wanted to go with Hello Gorgeous… I actually really wanted that name, however, it was taken already. Then Hello Bridal & Events came to mind and it just felt right.
What is that “one thing” that 2020 has taught you and that you will be using in the future? How will you be doing business differently?
Resilience, I will be using it on a daily basis when faced with challenges. I will be more innovative and current in my approach.
What makes your business unique?
Having studied Event Management and worked in various sectors of the industry, I have mastered the skill of conceptualising, planning, and executing an event from start to finish. I have an eye for detail and love creating magical memories with my clients and walking the journey with them.
Are you a solo-entrepreneur or how many members does your team currently comprise?
I am a solo-entrepreneur that wishes to create job opportunities in the future as the business grows for like-minded individuals.
How do you market your business, and which methods have been most successful for you?
Our biggest source of marketing is social media – Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Let’s not forget the old-fashioned way - word of mouth - works like a charm as well. We are also taking part in the Annual Canal Walk Wedding Show which is happening on the 26 – 28 March 2021. Please feel free to come to say “Hi” and spread the love and support.
What does a typical day look like for you? And how many hours, on average, do you work daily?
Typical day? What is that? I am a momtrepreneur, which means I am looking after our toddler (turning 2 in June) and I’m 6 months pregnant with our second baby on the way.
Marketing, sending out quotes, creating mock-set up’s, putting mood boards together, finalizing, planning, and making lots of lists… oh how I love a list! I indeed work daily, it's hard work but extremely rewarding, living your passion.
How has being an entrepreneur affected your life?
I have now mastered the skills of being flexible, managing my time, and networking - and I am loving being my own boss.
If you could go back in time and start up your business all over again, what would you do differently?
I would not change a thing. The timing of starting the business was perfect for me, not only in my personal journey but also in my professional career.
What is one piece of advice you’d like to give to someone just starting out?
When the going gets tough, remember why you started! And remember the end goal.
Where can we find your business on social media?
Facebook page link: https://www.facebook.com/Hello-Bridal-Events-105510144646884
Instagram handle: hello_bridal
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