We had the good fortune of connecting with Rhonda Spratt and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Rhonda, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
The most difficult decision I’ve ever had to make was whether or not to sign the DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) for my Mom while she was in the hospital battling for her life due to complications from breast cancer.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m the owner of Bella Luve’ Events by Design, a boutique event planning company. What sets me apart from other event planners is my passion to plan and coordinate events that empower women including hosting an annual women’s retreat. I’m most excited about my involvement with breast cancer awareness initiatives. I recently founded Bella Luve’ Goes Pink, a non-profit organization, in honor of my Mother who lost her battle with breast cancer. The name Bella Luve’ (pronounced Bella Loo Vay) is derived from my Mom’s middle name (Isabella) & my Dad’s first name (Luvell). The mission and purpose of the organization is to celebrate, support and empower breast cancer survivors through various events and initiatives.
Starting a business from scratch and being an entrepreneur has it’s share of challenges. When I initially took the leap of Faith to start my event planning company; I had recently been laid off. However, I didn’t allow that setback to delay the birth of my vision. Throughout the years as I faced challenges; I relied on my Faith, inner circle, mentors and I learned from others who shared the same passion.
As a single Mom it’s important for me to show my daughter, Christin, that dreams can be achieved through Faith, determination and focus. Also, it was important to prove that society’s stigma of single Moms and a child raised by a single Mother is a falsehood and cannot define her unless she relinquishes that power. I would like others to read my story and be encouraged to write and finish their own story.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend, Deidre were visiting Atlanta, we would go on daily walks at the Silver Comet Trail, indulge in retail therapy and watch Romantic Comedys until we fell asleep. On Saturday, we would start the day with brunch, then off to the spa (Facial, mani/pedi, massage). Afterwards, we would return home, chill for awhile, then dress up and end the day at the James Room, a cocktail lounge and Cafe’ located on the Beltline. I know she would love the music, food and ambience of this beautiful space. Finally on her last day in town, we would grab breakfast at First Watch, share a few more laughs, then hug and say our goodbyes.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to give a shoutout to Sharron Christian, Founder of Diamonds on the Green, LLC a Women’s Golf Club Organization based in Texas. Her vision for the golf organization parallels some of my core beliefs, such as empowering women, volunteering and mentoring young girls. Being a part of Diamonds on the Green is not only a platform for women to learn to golf, but it’s an opportunity to meet and network with other confident, like-minded women. Diamonds on the Green has several chapters throughout the U.S. and I’m currently the President of the Georgia Chapter. As the leader of this chapter, my goal is to motivate and inspire each member to reach her individual personal/professional goals; which includes encouraging golf as a form of self-care, building their confidence in the game of golf and I intend to plan/host financial literacy, legal planning and investment workshops. The Diamonds on the Green-Georgia Chapter consists of an amazing group of professional, fun-loving, down to earth women and we look forward to adding additional members to our chapter. I would like to recognize each GA member: Tanya Smith (DOTG Vice-President/ TLS Services Group), Carolyn Hill (5 Strong Scholarship Foundation Inc), Gala Stewart, Michelle Pleasant (The Pleasant Group LLC), Rosalyn Dear-Todd (5 Strong Scholarship Foundation Inc), Tammy Herndon and Adrienne Gates (EZ Money Tax Solutions).
Website: www.BellaLuveEvents.com or www.DiamondsonthegreenGA.com
Instagram: Bella Luve’ Events by Design or Diamonds on the Green Georgia
Facebook: Bella Luve’ Events by Design or Diamonds on the Green – Georgia
Image Credits
Nondi Dunn (Photographer) w/Doivoux Photograpghy