Meet Ticina Williams | Certified Event Planning and Designer

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

Hi Ticina, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
A few years ago, after taking a few crafting classes on a whim, I became obsessed with using my creative ideas to host amazing personalized events. After graduating from Chicago State University’s College of Business, and successfully planning a myriad events for friends and family, I decided to officially start my event planning business. Over the years I noticed that the party supply party supplies and gifts currently offered by retail stores do not represent or celebrate black and brown male children. To address this gap in the market, I began to create and digitally design products Inspired by the personalities, ideas and interests of my 3 (now 4) sons, and offer services that highlighted and celebrated African American children.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Creativiti Custom Designs and Events is a full service event planning, consulting and party supply company. We help parents, community and faith based organizations save time, money and reduce stress. Creativiti Custom Designs and Events provides original, personalized and diverse party supplies to style events. We also understand that every event is unique, and we work closely with our clients to create personalized experiences that exceed their expectations.

The journey of entrepreneurship has not been easy and has been filled with ups and downs. I have built a strong foundation for my business by actively seeking opportunities to learn and grow and ways to invest in my personal and professional development. My commitment to staying resilient throughout this journey has helped me to learn to bounce back quickly from setbacks, stay committed to my goals, and persevere through difficult times.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For a week-long trip to Chicago with my best friend, I’d craft an itinerary that showcases the city’s diverse culture, culinary scene, and iconic landmarks. We’d start with breakfast at Valois in Hyde Park and then catch the CTA to downtown to stroll along the Magnificent Mile, stopping to admire the architecture and shop for souvenirs. We would also check out the Willis Tower Sky Deck to get an amazing view of the city. For lunch, we would enjoy a Chicago-style hot dog at Portillo’s, followed by a visit to Millennium Park to see “The Bean” (Cloud Gate). Dinner would be deep-dish pizza at Giordano’s, followed by a walk along the Chicago Riverwalk to soak in the city lights. Throughout the week, we’d explore cultural gems like the Art Institute of Chicago, and indulge in gourmet meals at restaurants like Virtue in Hyde Park. We’d also immerse ourselves in the vibrant neighborhoods of Bronzeville and Woodlawn. Each day would offer a mix of excitement, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences, ensuring that my friend falls in love with the Windy City.

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?
I would like to dedicate this shout out to God, my family including my 4 sons, (Javarius, Johnathan, Jaelen and Tarr’ance Jr), and everyone who has supported my business along the way!

Website: www.shopcreativiticustomdesign.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/creativiti-custom-designs-events

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

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/creativiti-custom-designs-and-events-chicago-2