We had the good fortune of connecting with Nicholas Jones and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nicholas, how has your background shaped the person you are today?

As an Event Planner my upbringing shows up by understanding family dynamics & how to plan an event around them. Being from a small community you find that everyone knows everyone and is somehow related to everyone! So with that in mind it was a place where we looked out for one another and freely assisted those in need. I come from two large families where we met often and did everything over the top. My parents taught me the importance of being observant, being on time, saving money, being self sufficient & to always be humble. My dads’ side of the family is very artistic and who I credit my creative skills to. My grandmother was the town’s seamstress, my aunts, uncles & cousins talented singers, musicians, home builders & pastors! What I learned from the family functions is that the person who hosts the meetup often doesn’t get a chance to enjoy it as much and can be pretty depleted by the end of the day. This being why hiring an Event Planner/Day of Coordinator is considered an investment.
I’ve seen it….I’ve experienced it…..I’m here to help!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My business name is Couture Concierge and many have asked how it applies to the event industry. To break it down “Couture” means to be one of a kind, to be unique or specially made. While, “Concierge” relates to offering service & knowledge. When you put it together we are offering a unique, one of a kind service to those looking to host an event! When I started my business as an Event Planner my focus was primarily on the Wedding Industry. My best friend who is now deceased sternly told me that I would have to expand to do more and I wish he was here to see that I have! Our clients hire us as Day of Coordinator, Wedding Officiant & Event Sylist. CCES now has a published journal for any couple planning a wedding that can be purchased through us directly but also available on Amazon. One of the challenges I had starting my business is working a 9 to 5 where cell phone use was prohibited. I broke the rules by hiding to respond to texts and running to the file room to return calls! Was it worth it? Absolutely. My schedule consisted of me being gone from home for over twelve hours most days & alternating weekends. I decided that if I’m going to work on the weekend it was going to be for myself and at my discretion. When the business decided to make internal changes I was unemployed with rent and car note to pay. Having my business sustained me during that time! Just when I came to my last $20 another client was booked.
My business goal is to continue to grow so that I can not only live a comfortable life for myself but to be able to provide alternative income for those that need it just as I did.
– Continue to watch over us Josh. R.I.P.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
When I think of entertaining friends/family in Houston it usually starts in my kitchen or backyard for light bites and cocktails! My Saturday mornings usually starts with a cup of coffee and some of “A Cajun Phil’s” Boudin. Recently we’ve become regulars to “TAD’s of Katy” since finding out the owner is from my hometown. I’ve always enjoyed a late night ride around the city in which my friends and I relate to as “bussing blocks”. When my friends buss blocks with me we have no destination but always ride through the Houston Heights, Memorial Drive, Montrose, & Emancipation Ave. Houston is filled with so many places to eat and the new “Post” is providing an excellent atmosphere to expolore your options! If we wake up on time and sober you’ll find us attending church in Sunny Side or ending the weekend with brunch & mimosas.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The love & support I’ve had since starting my business has been AMAZING! I’m beyond grateful for my friends and family who willingly shows up to help me with any event no matter if it’s near or far. Every referral, social media like, comment & share doesn’t go unnoticed. However, Detrick has been there since having a business was only a dream & frequently a topic of discussion. He has seen me wake out of my sleep to design logos, business plans, flyers and so much more. Detrick is a significant part of my success as he uses his Life Coaching skills to educate & encourage me. Team Couture is made of several individuals who volunteer their time & resources. I love you all and appreciate you for your efforts! #TeamCouture

Instagram: @cces_

Twitter: @cceshou

Facebook: @cceshou

Image Credits
Melissa McFadden Photography; Clear Shutter Photography; Kelly Monique Photography

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