Today we’d like to introduce you to Jade Robinson.
Jade, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey began in 2008. I was new to Jacksonville and looking for a fun hobby that would help me meet new people. My employer offered a volunteer program that introduced me to the American Cancer Society (ACS). And immediately I started helping with their Making Strides against Breast Cancer campaign (MSABC). Volunteering is a great avenue to give back to noteworthy causes, but you can also uncover your passion.
The leaders of ACS recognized my potential and tasked me with responsibilities in the event planning realm. Little did I know I would develop a passion for event planning which led me to my current profession as a wedding & event coordinator. In 2015, I started J.R. Events. Diving into an industry with little to no knowledge was not an easy task but was fun discovering all the do’s and don’ts along the way. In 2018, I uncovered an underserved niche and created my second company All About You Staffing. Now with over 50+ employees across both companies our team services the entire North Florida area and averages approximately 275-300 events a year. Our companies faced the pandemic rollercoaster ride of Thriving to Surviving and back to Thriving again! Therefore, I am excited to share my stories to help inspire others about the journey of believing in yourself and pushing your dreams forward.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Aside from the pandemic, one of the most difficult struggles is being a woman of color in an industry that is not very colorful. Statistically in the US minorities are about 25-30% of event planners. In addition, to being one of the few in my area I noticed that it was very segregated leaving limited opportunities for me to connect with clientele from wealthier financial backgrounds.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I have two leading businesses in the Northeast Florida area, but what sets us apart from other businesses in the hospitality industry is our charitable works.
https://jreventsinc.com/
https://allaboutyoustaffing.com/
We provide development and mentoring not only to our staff members but to teenagers in high school to help them prepare for their next level. We teach cognitive thinking skills, build their resumes, and stage mock interview sessions.
Additionally, we have sponsored the prom for small charter schools to help kids with financial hardships.
Any big plans?
I am planning to launch virtual training programs to help reach more students across the US.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jreventsinc.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/j.r.events/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/J.R.EventsInc
Image Credits
Love & Joy Studios
Bethany Walter Photography
