Today we’d like to introduce you to Corinna Johns.
Hi Corinna, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
At 5 years old, I started helping my mom plan and design parties. I loved every aspect but especially the details and the design. In high school I decided I could make a career out of something that I loved. So I went to college for Business – General Business degree, focused on Entrepreneurship. I worked one on one with professors to study the Wedding Industry and create a business plan for Joyful Celebrations. My dream was to start it 5 years after I graduated college. I spent my summers interning and learning from the professionals. After I graduated, I started working at a venue. We did 160 weddings that season. In the winter, I picked up hours at David’s Bridal learning the ins and outs of Wedding Dress sales. In 2018 I joined the events team at another venue where I was able to work with so many amazing couples. The dream for my business was still very much alive. So after a crazy 2020 helping 130 brides navigate Covid, I resigned and started Joyful Celebrations.
Today, I am blessed to be able to make my passion a career. I use my experience and connections to offer my clients the best planning experience. Joyful Celebrations celebrates 5 years this year. I have helped with 550 weddings in the past 10 years. It has been a true honor to be trusted with couple’s weddings. My goal is to make every event a joyful and cherished memory for all who attend.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Starting a business is a risk and scary. I doubted my abilities many times. I loved planning but would my couples see the value? Would they trust me with their vision? Did I have enough drive to make my passion a profitable business? Thankfully, I have people in my life who encourage me on a regular basis. I don’t want to let anyone down. The fear of failure is real. But I have learned it is important to let the fear of the unknown push you to try new things. You will never grow if you don’t try.
The Wedding Industry is a fluctuating industry. Our success is based on if clients book us. One year can be amazing while the next year is slow. It is hard to navigate and stay positive. But without positivity and joy, life is lifeless. I think struggles and challenges are normal. You experience them in all stages of life – business, personal, relationships. It is how you handle them and grow from it that defines your story.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I have the privilege of creating custom designs with linen, floral, stationary that tells a couple’s love story. Details are my super power. I love knowing everything about my couples so I can make their priority my priority and design something that reflects them. I specialize in Weddings, but I will do other events. Weddings are a once in a lifetime event. Planning comes with a lot of decisions, family drama and stress. I want to walk next to my couples so when they experience these different stressors, it is not overwhelming. Being engaged, planning a wedding, marrying your best friend should be a fun experience.
My favorite elements is when we can personalize standard wedding details to be about the couple – incorporating their dog or cat in the festivities, embracing the Bride’s love of bows, sharing how the couple met by changing their table numbers to cities around the world.
I am most proud of the designs that have come together exactly how the couple envisioned. Every wedding should be different because the couple is different, their story is unique. When we can tell that story, it changes the entire feel of the day.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
My first wedding I ever did in Detroit back in 2015, I got so lost and almost went to Canada. Since that date, I have fallen in love with Detroit. I have watched it come back to life as historical buildings are bring restored. I am so proud and honored that I get to work down here almost every weekend. I will never get tired of the city views! Rooftop bars and balconies overlooking Woodward Avenue still take my breath away.
My least favorite part is the parking. We have learned over the years to valet for most weddings. The uncertainty of if I will find a spot will always be a stressor for me.
Pricing:
- Our packages are customizable, but we have a base package that includes what most couples need and want. Wedding Management starts at $3000
- Design + Consultation Coordination starts at $5,500
- Full Service starts at $10,000
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.joyfulcelebrations.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joyfulcelebrationsllc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoyfulCelebrationsLLC
