We had the good fortune of connecting with Melanie Mattis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melanie, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
In 2013 I began planning university and community events by being elected Vice President of External Affairs of the Student Government Association at my Alma Mater, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. At the time I didn’t know I had a passion for event planning until 7 years later. Last year I was in my corporate role at my desk coordinating a $300,000+ conference and the pandemic hit. The pandemic shook up my family, job and my wedding planning. After changing my wedding location and guest list 3 times, I realized how calm I was throughout the process. 7 years of event planning has allowed me to be adaptable in a way that I did not realize. Three months to the date of my wedding (December 22, 2020), I launched my business Black Swan Events and Design, March 22, 2021.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Black Swan Events and Design is an event business whose mission is to bring you a luxury concierge event management experience with additional stationery design services. Black Swan just launched on March 22, 2021 and I am almost booked for each month for the remainder of the year. Blessed is a complete understatement. I am solely here due to the trust that my clients have for my service, I would not be here without them. Thank you to each and every one of you.

I am most proud of my dedication to excellence. No matter how full my plate is, I find a way to make sure my clients have a luxury concierge event experience, not only do my clients gain a coordinator, they gain a friend, someone who truly cares for their event success. If no one else, I am always here.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my friend was visiting the area I would take them somewhere that was not in the heart of Atlanta. A cabin in North Georgia or Blue Ridge, Toccoa Falls, Savannah or maybe even Chateau Elan. I think many people have a certain perception that Atlanta is the most entertaining or fun city in Georgia, however; I think the most entertaining cities are where you find peace, places where you can relax and recharge without the “Hustle and Bustle”. I want to show my friends that there is more to Georgia than the typical Atlanta excursions.

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?
My Husband, Urel Mattis Jr. has pushed me to achieve this goal for years now, who knew a pandemic would be the last push? haha, I dedicate this shoutout to my husband, who pushes me every day without delay and full eagerness. I love and appreciate you so much. I also want to shout out the endless support of my Mom and Dad, who currently reside in North Carolina while I make my dreams come true here in Atlanta, Georgia. There hasn’t been one idea that I have shared with my parents that they have disagreed with. I’m extremely grateful to have you both in my life. I love you Mom and Dad!

Website: https://www.blackswaned.com/

Instagram: blackswaneventsllc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlackSwanEventsLLC/

Image Credits
Cullen Johnson – CullenaryArts IG: @cullenaryarts_

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.