We had the good fortune of connecting with Leah Meeks Garrido and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Leah, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind my success and the success of my brand is my adaptability. When I started my business in 2015, I tried to focus on everything – planning, designing, consulting, DIY-ing… it didn’t work for me and I was doing a disservice to my clients stretching myself so thin. I re-evaluate every year and see what’s working and what’s not and pivot from there. In doing that I was able to stay booked, even in the midst of a pandemic! Being flexible and able to adapt to any situation and circumstance is definitely my mainstay.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Planning events started out as a hobby. I have a hospitality background (mainly in hotel catering, convention services, and operations) and I loved working with all of the groups and weddings. When I went out on my own, I figured I would focus on planning weddings and events. I fell into designing my first wedding a year after creating my company and found I had a knack for it. My creative side completely opened up. I shifted my focus to the design aspect of events, mainly concentrating on florals. I take every chance I get to grow my knowledge and hone my skills. I belong to two amazing groups where I can interact with other creative entrepreneurs. When the pandemic happened and all events were ground to a halt, I pivoted to doing floral arrangements. At first, it was only for family and friends but now my floral subscriptions are another one of my services. I love that my clients trust me and my creative process, and I’m so grateful that my gift continues to make room for me.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
One thing I undoubtedly have is the best village and support system a girl could ask for! First, my family – my husband, Tony, my parents, and even my children are incredibly loving, supportive and encouraging. My extended family, my sister-friends, and my sorority sisters are simply amazing. Their support of everything I do has been unmatched. And of course, my OMG Team: Aja, Latoya, Monica, Alcelia (Cece), Shana, and LaTasha – they are awesomeness at its absolute best! I couldn’t do what I do without these people. I am truly blessed.
Website: www.leahomg.com
Instagram: instagram.com/lifeasleahomg
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/leahmeeksgarrido
Twitter: twitter.com/lifeasleahomg
Facebook: facebook.com/lifeasleahomg
Image Credits
Latoya Marie Photography Curtis McDowell, Photographer