We recently connected with Carl Wright and have shared our conversation below.
Carl, thank you so much for joining us today and appreciate you talking about a sensitive topic. It’s unfortunately relevant to so many in the community as layoffs have been on the rise recently, and so we’d appreciate hearing your story and how you overcame being let go?
I faced a significant challenge when I was laid off due to organizational restructuring. At first, it was a difficult situation because I genuinely enjoyed working in event logistics, event operations and project management. I especially enjoyed managing and training event staff on medium to complex setups.
However, I chose to see this as an opportunity for growth. I reflected on my skills in event planning, vendor coordination, and storage organization, and took proactive steps to enhance my expertise. I also networked within the industry to explore new opportunities and stayed motivated by focusing on how I could bring value to future roles.
This experience taught me resilience and adaptability. I learned to remain positive during uncertain times and to leverage my skills in logistics, project management, and customer service to continue contributing effectively. Ultimately, overcoming this setback strengthened my determination and prepared me to take on new challenges with even greater enthusiasm.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
My business partner, Kristy and I co-founded C & K Event Essentials, a vibrant and innovative event rental and logistical support company based in the Metro-Atlanta area. Our brand was established in 2024 with the mission to make every event seamless, memorable, and stress-free. With over 25 years of combined experience in the events industry, Kristy and I bring a deep well of knowledge and a passion for delivering exceptional service.
What excites me most about what we do is the ability to turn our clients’ visions into reality—whether it’s a small corporate gathering, a wedding, or a high-energy event like those involving the Atlanta Falcons. We specialize in providing top-quality rentals such as furniture, lighting, sound equipment, tents, and more, along with comprehensive logistical support. Our goal is to handle every detail with professionalism so our clients can focus on enjoying their event.
One of the highlights of our work is our proven partnership with the Atlanta Falcons, where we manage tailgates, in-arena activations, and other game-day experiences to ensure fans have unforgettable moments. We’re also expanding our services to include storage organization solutions and consultation services, helping clients streamline their event planning even further.
At C & K Event Essentials, we’re passionate about creating unforgettable experiences and building lasting relationships through personalized service and attention to detail. We look forward to continuing to grow and elevate the events we touch.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey with C & K Event Essentials, I believe the three most impactful qualities and skills have been:
1. Attention to Detail and Problem-Solving Skills:
Events require meticulous planning and the ability to anticipate and handle unforeseen challenges. Developing a keen eye for detail and strong problem-solving skills has been essential in ensuring every event runs smoothly. My advice for those starting out is to actively seek opportunities to manage different aspects of projects—learning to troubleshoot and adapt quickly is invaluable.
2. Exceptional Communication and Relationship Building:
Building trust with clients, vendors, and team members has been crucial. Clear, responsive communication helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures everyone is aligned. Early in your career, focus on developing active listening skills and being transparent. Networking and maintaining good relationships can open doors and create opportunities for growth.
3. Industry Knowledge and Continuous Learning:
Staying informed about the latest trends, rental options, and logistical best practices keeps our services fresh and competitive. For those beginning their journey, I recommend investing time in industry education—attend trade shows, participate in workshops, and seek mentorship. Knowledge combined with a willingness to learn helps you adapt and innovate.
Overall, cultivating a combination of meticulousness, strong communication, and ongoing learning has been fundamental to our success. For those early in their careers, I’d emphasize the importance of being proactive in developing these qualities—your growth will directly impact your ability to deliver exceptional results.

If you knew you only had a decade of life left, how would you spend that decade?
If I knew I only had a decade of life left, I would spend it living each day to the fullest, striving to be the best version of myself every step of the way. My focus would be on being the best parent I can be to my son, nurturing him, guiding him, and creating meaningful memories. I would also dedicate myself to growing my business and helping others—whether through mentorship, service, or simply making a positive impact in their lives. Ultimately, I believe that living with purpose, love, and intention is what truly matters, and I would want to make the most of every moment I have.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://candkeventessentials.com
- Instagram: @candkeventessentials






Image Credits
Farah
Kris The Photographer
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
