We recently connected with Sam Harper and have shared our conversation below.
Sam, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
I think my resilience has been shaped by a lot of different experiences — being a mom of three, starting a business from scratch, navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, and just trying to hold everything together on the hard days. There have been so many moments where I felt overwhelmed or unsure, but I kept going because the vision I have for my life — and for the business — matters that much to me.
I get a lot of strength from my support system too. My partner, my kids, my best friend and business partner — they’ve all seen me at my best and worst and have never let me forget what I’m capable of. I’ve also had to build resilience out of pure necessity sometimes — when no one else is going to make the dream happen for you, you learn to push through and figure it out.
Some days it’s messy and imperfect, but I think there’s power in continuing anyway.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m the founder of bxbbly, a creative event design and rental business based in Kansas City. It started with bachelorette parties — bold, personal, over-the-top in the best way — and has grown into something so much bigger. Now, we help bring all kinds of events to life: birthdays, weddings, showers, styled shoots, brand activations — anything worth celebrating.
At the core of bxbbly is joy and intention. We don’t do cookie-cutter. We obsess over the details, design for personalities, and always aim to create something that feels personal, fun, and unforgettable. People often tell us, “This is exactly what I pictured — but even better,” and that’s everything to us.
We’re also known for going above and beyond — truly doing the most. Whether we’re leading the full event or just handling one element, we show up ready to make it seamless, beautiful, and elevated.
Right now, I’m focused on scaling thoughtfully — continuing to grow in ways that feel aligned and exciting. Our vintage phone booth and audio guestbook rental has quickly become a favorite, and our bxbbly boxes let people bring our signature vibe to their celebrations, wherever they are..
Beyond the design itself, we care deeply about community — about showing up, giving back, and supporting causes we believe in. Celebration has meaning. And we’re proud to be part of moments that bring people together, reflect who they are, and leave a lasting impact.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Adaptability – In this line of work, things will go sideways — and usually when you least expect it. Whether it’s a sudden change in plans, unexpected logistics, or something out of your control, you have to be able to adjust quickly without losing your mind. Staying calm and figuring it out on the fly has been one of the most important skills I’ve had to grow.
Vision – I’ve always had big ideas — sometimes a little chaotic, sometimes super specific — and one of the best parts of building this business has been having someone who helps bring that vision to life in the most beautiful way. Hayley and I complement each other so well creatively. I’ll throw out ten wild ideas, and she’ll see how to shape them into something cohesive, elevated, and totally in line with our bigger vision. The collaboration between us is a huge part of what makes bxbbly what it is.
Relationships – One of the most meaningful parts of this journey has been the people I’ve met along the way. The friends, collaborators, and clients who’ve become part of this little world we’ve built — they’ve made the work better, and they’ve made it fun. That kind of support and connection is something I never take for granted.
Advice:
Start before you feel ready. No one has it all figured out, and you’ll learn so much by just doing the thing. Don’t let mistakes stop you — they’re part of the process. Find your people, stay focused on your vision, and keep showing up.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
Over the last year, my biggest area of growth has been learning to set boundaries — with my time, my energy, and what I’m willing to take on. That’s something I’ve struggled with in the past, but as the business has grown, so has the need to be clear and intentional about how I show up. Saying no when I need to, delegating more, and being honest about what’s realistic has helped me feel more grounded — in my work, as a partner, and as a mom.
I’m still figuring things out as I go, but I’ve come a long way. And for the first time, I’m starting to feel more confident in the way I handle it all.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bxbbly.com
- Instagram: @bxbbly.kc
Image Credits
Madi B. Photo
Visuals By Tania
Piper Reese Photography
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
