We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Rickisa Owens-Bacon a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Rickisa, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
Imposter syndrome used to have me questioning everything — my talent, my timing, my right to take up space. What changed? I stopped waiting to feel ready and started showing up anyway. Each time I did, the fear got quieter. Confidence isn’t a destination — it’s an energy, and we can tap into it at any time.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m a wedding officiant based in Atlanta, and my work is all about creating ceremonies that feel real, intentional, and deeply personal. Every couple has a story, and my goal is to honor that story — not just with beautiful words, but with moments that reflect who they truly are.
What excites me most about officiating is the privilege of witnessing love in its most honest form. I get to stand beside people on one of the most significant days of their lives and help translate their emotions, beliefs, and commitments into language that feels authentic to them. Whether it’s a spiritual, cultural, or nontraditional ceremony, I love tailoring each experience so it feels like them — not a template.
My approach is deeply relational. I spend time getting to know my couples — learning how they met, what they’ve overcome, what “home” feels like between them — and then I craft a ceremony that celebrates that essence. I also help couples navigate the process from start to finish, whether that’s writing vows, blending traditions, or designing unity rituals that speak to their values.
Right now, I’m expanding my services beyond just weddings to include vow renewals, elopements, and pre-marital sessions that focus on communication and connection.
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?
Authenticity, adaptability, and communication.
Staying true to who I am has been my anchor. Whether I’m officiating a wedding, creating content, or performing, people connect with realness. My advice: don’t try to fit a mold. Your individuality is the thing that sets you apart. Lean into it.
Life doesn’t always follow the plan, and neither does business. Learning to pivot gracefully—whether it’s adjusting a ceremony, navigating slow seasons, or shifting creative direction—has been key. The best way to develop adaptability is through experience and reflection. Don’t fear change; study it.
Communication — Everything starts and ends with how well you communicate—with clients, collaborators, and yourself. Clear, compassionate communication builds trust and sets the tone for every interaction. My advice: practice active listening. Learn how to say what you mean, and mean what you say, with empathy and clarity.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
One book that played a major role in my development is The Magic of Thinking Big by David Schwartz.
What stood out to me most was how much our mindset shapes our reality. The book reminded me that success doesn’t start with resources, it starts with belief. Belief in yourself, your ideas, and your ability to figure things out even when the path isn’t clear.
Another powerful takeaway was the importance of acting with confidence before you feel “ready.” Schwartz teaches that waiting for perfect timing is often just fear in disguise. That lesson helped me move on goals that once felt too big — whether launching my business, performing, or putting my creative work out into the world.
The book emphasizes surrounding yourself with people who think big too. That shifted how I approached relationships and collaboration. Energy is contagious — and being around people who see possibility expands what you believe is possible for yourself.
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