Marisa Manna Ferrell is an event planning professional that pays tremendous attention to detail. Marisa has the training, experience, connections and natural ability to plan any type of event, large or small. Marisa is the proprietor/owner of So Eventful. So Eventful is a full service wedding & event coordination company. With more than 500+ weddings & events under her belt, Marisa understands the traditions and protocols behind successful event planning. These include expertise in decorating, etiquette, product and service selection, ceremony and receptions, trends and traditions.

What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?

• I found a niche that I am good at and I wanted to start my own business.
• I did not want to have to report to anyone.
• I get to be my own boss.

Tell us about your business. 

So Eventful is a professional, full-service wedding & event planning company. We offer clients a comprehensive planning experience. Our team is comprised of some of the most skilled and talented wedding & event planners.

 Where is your business based?

Healdsburg, California (Wine Country).

What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?

I networked a lot! I reached out to people I knew, vendors, venues… anything to get my name out there! Every day I was hustlin’.

What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?

Word of mouth! We have a sterling reputation.

What have been your biggest challenges so far?

The biggest challenges for me as a business owner is to learn how to manage my time with my clients and the business. There is so much that goes into both: event planning + running your own company.

How did you overcome these challenges?

I hired a business manager so I could focus more on promoting the business and event planning for my clients and future clients.

How do you keep motivated through difficult times?

My family. My first priority is my husband and our relationship and our two kids.

How did you distinguish yourself from your competitors?

Our team has the personality for what it takes to execute successful events. I think once you meet or chat with me, you will want to instantly work with me. I am passionate about life and about my clients journey to produce successful events. When you meet me that shows through. I want to bend over backwards for my clients.

What is the best advice you have received recently?

There is no such thing as balance. It’s important to prioritize choices as a CEO.

What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?

Work hard, play harder.

What is your favorite business tool or resource?

Currently we are loving Wecora for our event design needs. It is a great tool to share with our clients!

What social media outlets do you use? List them below.

Instagram @soeventful, @soeventfulproductions, @whitewineredsolesmama
Twitter @soeventful
Facebook www.facebook.com/soeventful
Website www.so-eventful.com, www.soeventfulproductions.com
Hashtags #soeventful #soeventfulproductions #weddingplanner #eventplanner #winecountryweddingplanner #healdsburgweddingplanner
Photos by Dee Yates Photography