Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Iris Li. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Iris, so great to have you on the platform. There’s so much we want to ask you, but let’s start with the topic of self-care. Do you do anything for self-care and if so, do you think it’s had a meaningful impact on your effectiveness?
As a working mom, prioritizing a healthy work-life balance has become essential. I do my best to carve out time for myself and my family, ensuring that when I’m not working, I’m fully present and unplugged. This intentional approach allows me to recharge and return to work feeling inspired. For me, self-care might involve a long walk, quality time with loved ones, or indulging in my favourite shows. I make a conscious effort to adhere to my office hours, respecting the boundaries between work and home life. By limiting the number of events I take on each year and avoiding more than one wedding per weekend, I protect my time and energy, steering clear of burnout and ensuring I can be my best self at work and at home.
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?
I’m Iris Li, the owner and lead planner of Blue Lavender Events, a Toronto-based wedding planning firm. My love for weddings blossomed in 2012 when I helped a few friends with their planning, and I realized how meaningful it was to be able to support them on their day. 11 years later, I’ve built a brand that is dedicated to crafting events that are not only beautifully designed but also intentional and heartfelt, fostering a sense of authenticity and warmth. I pride myself on providing exceptional service and logistical expertise to ensure that every detail is flawless. Whether a wedding is grand or intimate, I strive to make it feel like an elevated dinner party with loved ones. What continues to motivate me is being able to witness our couples being fully present on their day, seeing all the beauty unfold and hearing how enjoyable the planning process was from beginning to end.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
The three skills that have been instrumental in my journey are time management, communication, and a thirst for learning. Managing multiple clients can be daunting, as it involves navigating various expectations, deadlines, and commitments which requires a robust workflow and system to keep everything organized. Meeting key milestones at different planning stages is also crucial to ensure the planning process is as stress-free as possible. On the day of the event the success of the wedding quite literally hinges on keeping all moving parts on track & on time.
Effective communication is vital, especially since each couple has their own unique style. I’ve learned that listening is just as important as speaking; understanding their needs fosters a deeper connection. Collaborating with vendors is equally essential, as we must work in harmony to create a seamless experience.
Finally, maintaining a passion for learning and resisting complacency is key. Our industry is ever-evolving, and to truly thrive, we must embrace change, continuously educate ourselves, and stay inspired by the beauty around us.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal client is a couple who values and wholeheartedly trusts the professionals they hire. They are fashion-forward, appreciate good food and wine, and have a sense of adventure from their travels. With a keen eye for design, they prioritize quality time with family and friends, cherish close friendships, and seek a wedding that feels both intimate and unconventional.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bluelavenderevents.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluelavenderevents
Image Credits
Barb Simkova
Bring Me Somewhere Nice
Mango Studios
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