We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kaci Johnson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kaci below.
Kaci, we are so happy that our community is going to have a chance to learn more about you, your story and hopefully even take in some of the lessons you’ve learned along the way. Let’s start with self-care – what do you do for self-care and has it had any impact on your effectiveness?
I have been planning weddings for 16 years now, and I have learned a few things throughout that time. First thing is I try to always take the day after a wedding off. I do not open my computer, and I enjoy my family and friends. I have found I need this to replenish myself. I also have given myself a little grace when it comes to putting up an away message. I use to never have one because I always responded within 24 hours no matter what. It is ok to take time for yourself, it will make you better at what you do!
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?
Xoxo Weddings is a wedding and event coordinating company. We help plan and coordinate every aspect of your BIG day. Our strength is making you feel like a guest at your own wedding. We are located in California, Reno/Tahoe, Cincinnati, Chicago, and Hawaii. Our entire team is trained the exact same way, so you will get the same service in each state. Currently, I am researching the possibility to expanding abroad. Next time we may be even bigger!
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?
First, I believe a strong work ethic is at the top of the list. I am a farm girl from Wisconsin that was taught what hard work can accomplish. I truly believe that if you put the time and effort into a project, you will get results.
Second, one must have persistence. There will be times that you want to give up, but never stop showing up. I remember when I started I hated going to networking events because I didn’t know anyone. Now, I walk in and there is a room full of friends and colleagues!
Third, as time went on I gained confidence. I always tell my team that it is like a wave. One day you feel like you can conquer the world, and nothing can stand in your way. Then, the very next day you can feel like everything is falling apart and you don’t have control over anything. This is being human, but I also think the ebb and flow builds your confidence.
My advice for new comers is to just keep showing up! Every day you will learn something new, and the day you don’t….maybe you should stop.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
My parents always believed in me, and they never told me that I couldn’t try something. When I told them I wanted to move to California, it took them a minute to soak it in, but they always stood behind me. I just think they knew that I was going to succeed, which meant I wasn’t ever going to live close to them again. I am so grateful that I got to be their daughter!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://xoxowed.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xoxowedding/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XOXOWeddingPlanning
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/xoxo-weddings-granada-hills?osq=xoxo+weddings&override_cta=Get+information
Image Credits
Steve Cowell Photography, Heirlume Photography, Alexandra Wallace Photography, Lin and Jirsa Photography, Michael Segal Photography
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
