Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shanna Manley. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Shanna, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
I think everyone experiences imposter syndrome, especially in the beginning. For me, overcoming it has meant truly believing in myself, trusting my instincts, and accepting that there will always be people who may be more experienced or less experienced than I am. What matters is the heart and effort I bring to every event.
When I coordinate a party, I know I’m giving it everything I have. My fast response times, attention to detail, and high expectations are what set me apart in this industry. I love looking back at photos from past events because they remind me of the incredible experiences I’ve created. Reading client reviews reinforces that I do know what I’m doing and that my work is making people happy.
At the end of the day, you have to be your biggest cheerleader your own hype man and number one fan. When you show up with that energy, the rest will follow.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
EPIC Parties was founded in Middle Tennessee by Shanna Manley, a visionary who transformed her love of hosting unforgettable gatherings into a full-scale luxury event experience. What began as intimate celebrations for friends and family quickly evolved into a passion and ultimately a business built around crafting immersive, over-the-top moments for others. Today, Shanna is known as Tennessee’s original Party Architect, designing events that are as imaginative as they are unforgettable. She partners with an expansive network of elite entertainers, including performers who have graced stages on America’s Got Talent and American Idol, ensuring every celebration is absolutely EPIC.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
1. Lightning-Fast Communication
In an industry where details matter and timing is everything, I pride myself on having some of the fastest response times in the business. No one wants to wait days for an answer especially when planning something important. The moment an inquiry comes in, I reply with a warm thank-you and immediately gather any additional details I need. Whether it’s “I’m on this now” or clarifying questions about the vision, clients always know I’m present, attentive, and ready to work.
2. Dedicated Follow-Through From Start to Finish
Once a client books with me, the communication doesn’t stop. I stay in close contact with entertainers and vendors to confirm every element is lined up, and I routinely check in with my clients to ensure nothing has changed on their end. No surprises, no assumptions just seamless coordination and peace of mind. My clients never have to wonder what’s happening behind the scenes, because I’m already one step ahead.
3. Integrity in What I Take On
I believe luxury service requires honesty, professionalism, and self-awareness. I never take on an event or request that is outside my true strengths. If something isn’t the right fit, I’m upfront about it because my clients deserve excellence, not guesswork. Turning down a project now and then allows me to maintain the high standard that the EPIC Parties brand is known for.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
I’m constantly expanding my vendor list but I’m selective.
I love discovering unique and unforgettable talent, the kind of performers and creatives who bring that wow factor to an event. But what truly matters to me is their heart. I look for vendors who are passionate about what they do, responsive from the very first message, and consistently professional.
Those qualities are what elevate an event from great to absolutely EPIC and that’s the standard I hold for every partnership.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @epic_partiesbyshanna
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/14SLxvnicEM/?mibextid=wwXIfr
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