We were lucky to catch up with Shay Katebe recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Shay, 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.
When I first started my business, Shay K Events, I went through some serious imposter syndrome. I questioned why I felt I could run a business when I had never done it before. I questioned my wedding and event planning skills even though I had planned numerous events at that point in my life. I questioned why I felt I could even make it in this industry when there are so many other talented planners in the area. Eventually, I had a come-to-Jesus moment with myself. I had to stop myself from playing the comparison game. I had to remind myself that there is only one me. No one can do me better than myself. I had to get over my fear of failing. I had to speak the truth to myself. I am not a fraud. I am really good at planning fun events. I handle stress well, which makes me good at taking on other people’s stress. That’s a huge part of wedding and event planning. I may have never run an official business before, but I knew people who had and by surrounding myself with them, I could learn more about how to run a successful business.
Once I stopped giving the time of day to the lies that would cripple me from making progress and chasing my dreams, I began to see my full potential on display. That’s not to say I don’t still have my moments of doubt. When I do, I remember the countless clients I have worked with. I remember the joy they experienced on their special day because I planned ahead for things that could potentially go wrong as well as handled all the unexpected issues. I think about the the positive things they have shared with me about their experience working with me. So, when imposter syndrome comes knocking, I combat it with the truth which is I am great at what I do. I am more than capable. I have already proved this to myself and others more times than I can count. The key to overcoming imposter syndrome is the truth.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am every bride and groom’s best friend, also known as a wedding and event planner. My job is to guide and advise my clients as they journey to the altar. Most couples that are getting married have not gone through the experience of planning a wedding before. My job is to guide them through the process and ensure that their special day is a success. I care about my clients. One thing you will hear from my clients is how I go above and beyond to make sure they have the best, most memorable day possible. I do this because it really is a passion of mine to see the joy on clients’ faces when they see all of their visions and dreams come to fruition.
I currently plan all sorts of weddings, but eventually my main focus will be cultural weddings and destination weddings. I love to experience different cultures, whether that’s through traveling or through cultural weddings and special events. I am originally from Zambia, so I am able to connect and help intercultural couples incorporate their traditions in a way that is reflective of who they are individually and together. That’s pretty much what I do in a nutshell.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in my journey are my bubbly personality, my expertise, and my perseverance. I never let any challenges or obstacles take away what makes me who I am. My advice would be never forget who you are or how far you have come. Stay positive, learn more, and never give up.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
I believe in the power of prayer. When I feel overwhelmed I take a chill pill and pray. Do people still say chill pill? Am I showing my age? Haha! Anyway, taking a step back, praying, and coming up with a game plan usually helps me not to feel so overwhelmed. I’m a big fan of checklists. So, writing out what needs to be accomplished and working on knocking out the list one step at a time helps.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shaykevents.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/shaykevents
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/shaykevents.com
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/shaykevents
Image Credits
Rai Photography & Design Uko Studios Tolman Media
