Meet T’Kiyah Outlaw | Wedding & Event Planner

We had the good fortune of connecting with T’Kiyah Outlaw and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi T’Kiyah, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
When I started my business, I was absolutely terrified because I personally had never seen anyone that I could relate to at the time start a business. So, as the first entrepreneur from my immediate family and circle of friends at the time, I didn’t necessarily refer to them for advice about starting my business. While they were aware and fully supported what I was doing, I made it happen on my own; which made the whole process scarier. However, I realized in the moment that learning experience was something that would benefit me forever and I could now share this information with my family, friends and generations to come. Although I was the first in my immediate circle, I didn’t want to be the last. Once that became my mindset I started embracing my process, sharing my struggles, connecting with other entrepreneurs that inspired me and soaking up every ounce of information I was able to obtain. So, now my thought process was to successfully open a business and be the connect with the next. It doesn’t stop with me!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
TKO Total Events is a versatile wedding & event planning firm where we turn dreams into lifetime memories! What sets us apart from others is our customer service. From the very first time we consult with our clients up until event day; we take pride in providing QUALITY customer service as well as an overall pleasant planning experience. The proof is in our client reviews. Providing high quality customer service, educating our clients, and remaining consistent has gotten us where we are today.

Claiming our spot in the industry wasn’t easy and still isn’t easy but having satisfied clients makes it all worthwhile. While we’ve become creditable in our profession, we are faced with new challenges every event. During the consultation which is the first time we speak to our clients, we tell them in these exact words “no matter how smooth your planning experience is, something unexpected will happen on your event day, however TKO Total Events is trained to handle the unexpected”. Believe it or not some of the craziest things has happened at these events but, we handle every challenge with grace by using our expertise to fix any issues that may occur, and we accept it all as a learning opportunity.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m a foodie, so if we don’t do anything else we’ll catch a vibe at some of the top fine dining restaurants. As a woman in my early 30’s nothing makes me happier than good music, food and drinks. I’m a early bird so, I love love love going to brunch. There is nothing better than getting pretty, going to brunch and being home before the sun goes down! I hardly ever go to the club anymore and if I do it’s for a special occasion and we have to have a section LOL! Some of my friends call me old for being this way, I call it needing my rest LOL! Other than eating, I enjoy self care so, I’m always down for a nail, massage, facial or even workout date with my bestie; but food has to be somewhere in the itinerary. Other than that I’d take my friends to a concert or hiking which are both things I enjoy. I didn’t really answer this question but, I hope you caught my vibe.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Before any I must give my thanks to God! He’s my reason and I owe it all to him! Next, I would like to thank my family & friends. As I mentioned before, they’ve supported me and the brand from the beginning. My parents specifically have listened, accepted, and supported everything I’ve ever said I wanted to do as a child until now. I also must show a ton of love to my fiancé Christopher Kenon, the Owner of CeeKay Soundz! This man has supported and consoled me in ways that I can’t explain. While I’m out being superwoman every day, he’s close by being my safe haven and saving me from myself a lot of times. Moments when I lose motivation, become frustrated, end up in a serious predicament, accomplish a goal, have a new idea, or simply need a hug; he’s my person. He spoils me emotionally and that means everything. Next, I have to thank The Bridal Society. Being new in the events industry was tough. However, I felt relieved when I was introduced to the founder Laurie Hartwell. The Bridal Society is a powerful organization that groom new professionals and elevate the seasoned. Being a member of this organization has connected me with tons of professionals and vendors worldwide. Finally, shout out to a few of my favorite recording artists Kierra Sheard, Donald Lawrence, William Murphy, Beyonce & Gucci Mane. In my world their music stays on repeat, depending on the day. Please don’t judge me, it’s called BALANCE! LOL! Thank You all! Be on the lookout for our 5 year anniversary rebrand in Spring 2022.

Website: www.tkototalevents.com

Instagram: @tkototalevents

Facebook: @tkototalevents

Image Credits
VMA Studios In His Image Photography Aojo Photography She Captures Joy Carolina Media Star