We had the good fortune of connecting with Chivonne Hyppolite and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Chivonne, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind my success is my faith in myself and God! No matter how arduous this entrepreneurial journey gets, the one thing that is constantly playing in my mind is that, “I can accomplish whatever, I put my hands to because God’s got me!” When I reference having faith in myself, that encompasses my faith in my professional aptitude and extensive industry experience plus executing with divine intuition. I wholeheartedly believe in myself, the value my business offers and my ability to deliver beyond expectation.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Abstract Elements Corporate Meetings & Events (AE) is an innovative, global corporate meeting and event planning agency, with a proven track record of successful event production. We produce Virtual, Hybrid and Live Events. We have worked on spectacular events in 5/7 continents, and we look forward to more international experiences! As Event Execution Experts, we place equal emphasis on intelligent decision-making and impactful, stellar events!
Our clientele includes Corporate, Associations, Government, Non-Profits, Sports, Entertainment, Culinary, Medical, Engineering, Start-Ups and Small Businesses. As Event Education Experts here are the top four things that set us apart from our competition:
1. Thinking outside the box to design and accomplish the perfect event or meeting for our clients.
2. Cultivating a phenomenal event while prioritizing our clients’ objectives and budget requirements.
3. Delivering an event or meeting that tantalizes all five senses and leaving our clients in awe.
4. Embracing the Return On Experience (ROEx) which means we understand and strive to increase the value of our clients’ investment, attendee experience, and leadership experience.
What am I most proud of:
I am most proud of the diverse portfolio that AE has been blessed enough to build. We have worked with so many different corporations, brands and businesses of all sizes! More importantly, we maintain great rapport with our clients which keeps them returning to us year after year.
How did I get to where I am today business-wise?
Honestly, by taking calculated risks and jumping off the cliff and figuring out how to fly on the way down! In the 8 years, I have been in business, I have never advertised or marketed the business. So 100% of our opportunities come from referrals and relationships. It took a lot of prayer, tears and building what I thought was missing in this event space to get AE to where it is today. It took divine collaboration, purposeful mentoring (me being the mentee) and investing in the knowledge I needed to grow my business. Additionally, it took building the right team! My core team is like family to me. I take care of them and they take care of me. I leverage and support their businesses just as they support mine.
Was it is easy?
Absolutely not! I struggled with fear and doubt not knowing where my next client would come from. Had many sleepless nights and tears cried over why it was so hard to walk in my purpose. But it all built resilience, stronger faith and the muscle memory my heart and brain needed to remember that I am not “an imposter” I really DO this….and I am worth every dime that I charge.
Lessons Learned Along the Way?
Some of the most valuable lessons I learned along this journey are:
1. Surround yourself with a mentor and a team who believe in you! Ask them for advice, direction and guidance whenever you need to. Do not be scared or feel less than because you are asking for help.
2. Find your niche (sweet spot) that makes you stand out and OWN THAT SPOT! – You are the only you on this earth, HOW you do what you do makes you special, NOT what you do—nobody can beat you at being you.
3. Money isn’t the end all be all – but it sure is nice to have. Set yourself up for success. Organize your business in a manner where you pay yourself first and then all of your business expenses. I LIVE by The Profit First Model – Thanks to Mike Michalowicz. This book changed the game for me.
4. Treat your clients like family – Do good business and treat them well. When your clients know that you’ve got them they will always sing your praises and be walking and talking billboards for your business.
5. Be a person of Integrity & Transparency. People do business with those they know, like and trust. Give people a reason to trust you– Deliver when you say you will, produce above expectation and always follow up and follow through. If for some reason you cannot deliver on your promises, communicate! Own your mistakes and prove that you are the right person to get the job done.
What do I want the world to know about Chivonne & AE?
When she is not busy leading her global meeting and events agency, plus executing unforgettable experiences, Chivonne spends time with her family, is a wine enthusiast and especially enjoys being an aunt to her three beautiful nieces. Furthermore, Chivonne participates in philanthropic opportunities with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the Junior League of Dekalb County.
Abstract Elements Corporate Meetings & Events Agency is a dynamic, full-service corporate event planning company that is dedicated and willing to make your company’s vision a reality. Schedule a complimentary strategy call with AE today to to make your next event a smashing success!
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?
When my best friend comes to town here is our week long itinerary:
Sunday: Brunch at Breakfast At Barneys + Bike Riding at Piedmont Park + Go visit Family
Monday: Lunch at Flying Biscuit + Manicures & Pedicures at Laquer on the beltline + Dinner at Mellow Mushroom
Tuesday: Brix Class at Effects Fitness + Lunch at Tassili’s on the Westside + Catch a Movie at Atlantic Station
Wednesday: Lunch at No Mas Cantina + Massages at Ponce Feet Spa + Go hang out with Friends at the Battery
Thursday: Lunch at Slutty Vegan – Edgewood + Ponce City Market Shopping Tour + Jazz Night at City Winery
Friday: Lunch at the Big Ketch – Buckhead + Dessert at Cinnaholic (The Best Vegan Cinnamon buns EVER) + Escobar Lounge
Saturday: Brunch at Two Urban Licks + Dance Class at Dance With Me Buckhead + Dinner with Friends & Family at home
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I dedicate this shout out to my mom, Jane M Peterson. She has been my biggest cheerleader, prayer warrior and supporter of all of my dreams and goals since I popped out the womb! Thank you Mommy!
Website: www.abstractelementsevents.com
Instagram: @abstractelementsevents
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/abstract-elements-corporate-meetings-events