We’re looking forward to introducing you to Vanessa Loney. Check out our conversation below.
Vanessa, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
I’m most proud of the systems and processes we’ve built as a team to create a more efficient, consistent, and collaborative way of managing projects. While much of this work happens behind the scenes, it’s had a real impact on how smoothly our events and operations run. We’ve also been intentional about aligning our work with our values — stepping away from clients who weren’t the right fit and welcoming new partnerships that are better aligned with our mission and approach.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I lead a team that specializes in creating thoughtful, high-impact experiences that connect people, brands, and ideas in meaningful ways. Our work blends creativity with precision — from event production and brand storytelling to strategic operations — ensuring every project not only looks great but runs seamlessly behind the scenes.
What makes our organization unique is our focus on alignment and authenticity. We’ve been intentional about building systems that support both our team and our clients, allowing us to partner with organizations that share our values and vision. Recently, we’ve also taken steps to expand our educational initiatives — creating opportunities to inspire and equip the next generation of talent in our industry.
At the heart of everything we do is a belief in collaboration, clarity, and impact — creating experiences that inspire connection, foster growth, and leave a lasting impression.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
In our experience, bonds between people — particularly in client relationships — can be challenged when trust, communication, or expectations are misaligned. Even when difficulties arise, we pride ourselves on our ability to navigate these challenges thoughtfully and proactively. We take the time to understand the personality and perspective of the person in front of us, fostering open dialogue, active listening, and addressing concerns head-on. By combining this personal approach with reliability, transparency, and shared values, we work to restore and strengthen relationships, building partnerships that are stronger and more resilient as a result.
What’s something you changed your mind about after failing hard?
I used to believe that saying “yes” to every client opportunity was the best way to grow. After taking on a client who ultimately wasn’t aligned with our values, we faced challenges that could have been avoided. That experience taught us the importance of intentionality in our partnerships. Now, we focus on working with clients whose goals and values align with ours, ensuring stronger collaboration, better outcomes, and relationships built on trust and shared purpose.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that what really matters to me is connection and integrity — both in my personal life and in my work. I value building authentic relationships, understanding the people I’m working with, and creating environments where trust, collaboration, and mutual respect are at the forefront. They’d also likely mention my dedication to growth and learning, not just for myself but for the teams and communities I’m part of.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
If I retired tomorrow, our customers would miss the partnership-based approach Blue Ribbon Events brings to every engagement. Beyond logistics and execution, we serve as strategic thought-partners who anticipate needs, elevate client ideas, and guide the entire event vision from concept to successful delivery. Our clients trust us not only to manage details, timelines, vendors, and budgets, but also to think critically, offer creative solutions, and lead with calm confidence — especially in complex or high-stakes environments.
They would also deeply miss the sense of dedication, loyalty, and genuine human connection that defines our work. We don’t simply plan events — we build relationships, empower teams, and become an extension of our clients’ organizations. Many clients share that our commitment, communication style, and proactive leadership make their work easier and give them peace of mind, knowing their event — and their reputation — are in safe hands.
Finally, clients would miss the way we elevate women, freelancers, and underrepresented talent and create collaborative spaces where everyone feels valued. The culture we bring — one rooted in excellence, inclusivity, and shared success — is rare in this industry, and our clients feel that energy in every project.
In short: they would miss our partnership, our leadership, our people-focused approach, and the level of trust and excellence we consistently deliver.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.blueribbon-events.com/
- Instagram: blueribbon_events
- Linkedin: Blue Ribbon – Events
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BRibbonEvents/
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
