About

About

Client Interview with Carlmetta Gardner
Please take a moment to read this before hiring Black Swan Events.
How long have you been planning events and how did you become a planner?

Nineteen years ago, I pledged Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. and participated in many community service activities for the community. During this time, I learned that not only did I love my sorority and helping with the community service projects, but I also loved the planning aspect of it. Over time, I found myself serving on several committees. Knowing that I was making a difference in the community felt great and I wanted to do more – and I did.

Over the years while still actively involved with my sorority, I started planning numerous events for my family and friends. This is when I discovered that I had truly found my passion and realized my dream was to some day become an Event Planner. I absolutely enjoyed planning events and did it as a “hobby” until I had the opportunity to make my dream become a reality.

After much contemplation, I was given the opportunity to become an Event Planner. Although I had planned my own wedding and affairs for friends & family, I still wanted to gain as much knowledge as possible. That’s when I decided to take a couple of wedding and event planning courses. Fully equipped and ready to do business, Black Swan Events was formed.

I have worked with several clients, family & friends and learned how to give each of them an unforgettable, exuberant experience for their special occasion. I believe in giving my clients the desires of their heart and turning their vision into a reality. My motto is: Nothing is impossible; you just have to know how to implement it!

We love the services you offer and your gallery. Everything sounds amazing but can you tell us what really sets you apart from other planners?

When you hire me, you are not just hiring a “planner”. You are contracting a full-time event professional providing you with my undivided attention. You can rest assured and know that I am here for you. I can be your listening ear, your mediator and your resourceful planner. I will bring your vision to life with my unique sense of style by creating a distinctive experience that complements your ideas. No two events are alike. With this combination, you can be certain that you and your guests will experience the “WOW-factor”.

Clients who work with me will tell you that I give 110% to make their dream wedding or event a success. I know I’ve done my job when I see a smile on their face. It brings great joy to me and makes my day. Can you tell I L-O-V-E what I do?

This is awesome, but it also seems expensive. Are we going to be able to afford this?
Absolutely! You can’t afford not to. I will work with your budget to customize a package just right for you. No event is too small for me. Even a small cocktail party is less stressful when someone else is there to help you with the planning and details; allowing you to enjoy the occasion without being overwhelmed by tedious logistics.
Who do you work best with?
The type of clients I work best with are clients who are fun, easy going, have a sense of humor as well as an open mind and love social media – especially Pinterest! You know what you want but need help with bringing your vision to life. You don’t mind working along side your planner and trust she will get the job done. You want a “WOW-factor” event, but don’t know how to achieve it. You are not looking for the normal “cookie-cutter” event. Any of the above, makes you a perfect fit for me.
Who is not going to benefit the most from your help planning their event?
I know that Black Swan Events style of planning is not for everyone. Therefore, clients who will not benefit the most from my planning services are those who are not open and honest, who are not realistic with their expectations or do not trust me to do what they have hired me for. I want my clients’ experience to be stress-free, enjoyable and personable.
Will I lose control of my event if you are planning it for me?
No, I realize that this is your “special day” and it is all about you. I am basically your liaison and partner guiding you graciously throughout the planning process. I am here to serve you in any capacity (i.e. as service provider, a decision maker, an organizer, a designer, a mediator or a friend). No matter what, I am here for you! My main goal is to deliver tailor-made services to you at an affordable price.
Will you work with the vendors I have already found and really want to work with?
Most Definitely! I will work closely with any vendor you have chosen to ensure a seamlessly executed event. I do recommend vendors who share my expectations for quality and service to guarantee the memorable occasion you deserve. However, I am always on the lookout for new vendors to work with.
Do you take credit cards and can we have a payment plan?
Black Swan Events accept all forms of payment – cash, checks and credit cards. Payments with credit cards can be made via Square or PayPal. Yes, I can create a payment plan which suits your needs!
Do you take more than one event per day?
Never! I give you my undivided attention that you so deserve on your special day. I ensure that you are my main focus with no distractions.
This sounds like everything we have been looking for. What happens next to start the process?
The next step is to set up a no hassle “Let’s Get Acquainted” complimentary consultation. You can do this by calling me at 404.692.4206 or you can send me an email. This consultation will allow us the opportunity to get to know each other better, hear about your needs, see if we are a good match as well as find out which service suits your personality, style and budget best.
May we contact some of your former clients to see what it is like to work with you?
By All Means! In fact, I encourage you to do so. I want you to be confident with your decision when booking Black Swan Events. You can also view a few of my client’s testimonials here.
We have a couple more questions before getting started. Can we call you to discuss this further?
Of Course! I highly recommend all of my clients schedule a no hassle “Let’s Get Acquainted” complimentary consultation. This is the chance for you to get all of your questions answered and make sure that we are a great fit for one another.                                                                                                                                                           Again, please feel free to call me with any questions you may have at 404.692.4206 or you may email me to discuss your needs and desires. I can’t wait to meet you!
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Cheers & Best Wishes,

 

Carlmetta