For the Bridal Edition, I along with NATVID Life & Style would like to introduce its readers to Ms. Latoya Fleming. We’re introducing her through a conversation that will allow readers to know what to expect when choosing Les Chic Events. I arrived at my scheduled appointment time with Ms. Fleming. We met at her business location at 28 East Franklin Street, Natchez Ms. I could already feel that this interview would be intriguing by the ambience upon arriving, and it proved to be just that.
There were scented candles lightly filling the air in a waiting area decorated with simple, but elegant décor. There were framed inspirational quotes in various areas of the peaceful and charming space, while smooth music played filling the atmosphere with calmness. Latoya was sitting at her desk, jotting in her planner as I entered her office. I was warmly welcomed as we sat down to talk about how the event planning vision took root, and the fruit that it is now bearing.
L&S: Let’s just dive on in this thing and start with “Purpose”. How did you know event planning was what you wanted to do, and that a part of your purpose was tied in it?
Fleming: While I was teaching in Tensas Parish, my principal trusted me to do our prom, and everyone was impressed with the transformation of the gymnasium, so thereafter, every event we had, I was trusted to carry it out. I started off decorating our prom, then our coronation balls, then any and every program we had on campus. I started believing I could do this, and then my paths crossed Mrs. Rosa Demby, and being in her company showed me that I could do it for myself. God would give me ideas and they would come out beautiful. I didn’t know one of my callings would be in event planning, but everything was lining up with it because every job I had prior to becoming a teacher had connections to events, and event planning.
L&S: Looking around here, I would have to agree. How did you find the right name for your business?
Fleming: Les is feminine, but specific in recognizing the noun that follows, and Chic means classy, elegant, simple, sophisticated, and of good quality, and that sums up the business. Delivering the attributes of its meaning has always been top priority.
L&S: From weddings to the many other events Les Chic caters to… do small budgets effect the quality of an event?
Fleming: I practice treating a two-hundred-dollar client the same way as a two-thousand-dollar client. I treat a thousand-dollar client the same as a ten-thousand-dollar client. God told me to give my clients an experience, and that’s why I go in honoring every budget. I am realistic with my clients on what can be done based off their budget, but I still try to honor the impossible because it is still a reflection of who I am, and I strive always to do my best.
L&S: What advice would you give young entrepreneurs who have taken the leap of faith and started that business, or people who have an entrepreneur’s spirit, but are basically afraid?
Fleming: “Trust what God has given you.” If God puts something in your spirit, it’s for you! There were times that I faced projects I thought were bigger than what I could produce. I didn’t trust myself, I was afraid, but I did it anyway, and God blew my mind. He shows me every day that I am equipped for the job because he always lets me know my gifts would make room for me. As far as encouraging others, three of my former students are in event planning, and they are out there exercising their gifts and doing a great job. They call me, they ask me questions, and we discuss the highs and lows of this business, but I always encourage them to do their best, and operate in the gift God gave.
L&S: Wow, you know that’s awesome right?
Fleming: It’s such a blessing that my faith in my own visions could help inspire others around me, that’s the goal, that’s purpose.
L&S: So, how do you get past those doubts that pop up in your mind when trying to deliver your best work?
Fleming: I remember who I am, and whose I am. I remember the vision that God gave me, and how he showed me it would manifest, and I just Trust the creative in me. Through my own experiences coupled with my walk-in faith… if I do it as if I’m doing it for God, I’ve learned I won’t disappoint anyone
Les Chic Events is a business worth the call for beautiful, elegant, and chic climates for those special occasions, or rentals. I could feel the passion Ms. Fleming exudes when speaking on event planning and her relationship with the Creator. Fleming likes to assist in making your special day one filled with sleek beauty to hold in your memory books and your heart. That’s the beauty of information, you don’t have to take my word for it. If you’re in need of an event planner, contact her. Ms. Latoya wears many hats as she continues to grow in her callings, and she has implemented many ways to contact her.
Les Chic Event’s website, www.leschicevents.com can help you learn more about her business, schedule consultations. and more.
Les Chic Events is located at 28 East Franklin St, Natchez, MS,
phone: (601) 597-3009.
