With Los Angeles roots and a world-class track and field career with Team USA, the spotlight is not new to Miesha Jones. Now, she uses her gifts to bring events worthy of a spotlight for special moments in the South. Her lifelong love of creativity inspired her to start Love Jones Designs, Inc., an event planning company in Dallas that produces high-quality events for special occasions ranging from milestones to anniversaries.
Your Name:
Miesha Jones
Business Name:
Love Jones Designs, Inc.
Alma Mater:
San Diego State University
Hometown:
Los Angeles, California
Current location:
Dallas, Texas
Website Link:
What services do you provide?
We specialize in social events and milestone parties.
Why did you decide to start a business?
I always felt as a creative, I was going to make my own career path. I decided to venture into event planning as a way to give my creative passion a platform while helping others to experience a memorable special occasion.
Before you owned a business, what did you do?
I was a professional track and field athlete. I competed as a world class 100m hurdler for Nike & Team USA.
What is your favorite client story?
While working as an assistant to a local wedding planner, we had to navigate a three-day wedding in the midst of an ice storm that shut down most of the city. It was a major test of being calm & collected while laughing at all of the things we simply could not control. So many things went awry that weekend including not being able to find the bride’s 92 year old grandfather when it was time to walk her down the aisle. We later found Grandfather in the opposite wing of the church, sitting cozily by the fireplace reading a book, none the wiser of the panic that had ensued when we thought he was “lost”.
What is the most interesting client request you have had?
To plan an out-of-state party, and not actually be there for the event. It was necessary for me to plan the event, to list, record and sketch every minute detail of what the event would look like.
What is the most important thing you have done to build your business?
To hire my business coach Tiffany Fulcher, to plan, encourage and guide me through my business goals.
Who are some of your business idols?
Jeff Lewis, Anthony Melchiorri and Marcus Lemonis.
Do you have any mentors? Who and how did they help?
Yes, my mentor is Dallas based planner Millicent Finney, of Finney & Associates. I assist in the execution of her events which gives me first hand experience in larger scaled events. She allows me to share my frustrations, she gives guidance, answer s questions and introduces me to many of her established contacts in the city. It’s been a valuable relationship.
What do you love about southern clients?
As a native Californian, southern style is very different from what I am used to. There is a lot of tradition and history associated with the expectations of southern clients. What I enjoy most is mingling our two very different styles and perspectives. I truly embrace the challenge of opening a new way of viewing parties and events to my southern clients. With my vibrant and adventurous style of event production, sometimes my southern clients just don’t know what to expect. I am always happy when they allow me to challenge them and are pleased with the outcome.
What are some of your favorite events to plan? Why?
I LOVE children’s parties. With children’s events, I am allowed to explore a world full of imagination. Kids love to be engaged and entertained by being in a themed celebration space. When I am planning a kid’s party, I also actively find a way to engage the parents also. I believe there is a kid hidden in every adult. It makes me smile when I can see a parent interact at children’s events. That moment when I can see the layers of adulthood peeled back & they become a kid again, that’s what I live for.
What items do you think every southern event should include? Why?
I believe events should have items that are personalized. Monograms are a favorite, but anything that can add that touch of the host’s personality and charm is a must.
What is your favorite thing about being southern?
Well, this is a tricky question considering I am proud Californian, living in the south. 😉
What is your favorite southern entrees or sides? Why?
I absolutely love sweets. I never had red velvet cake until I moved to Dallas 10 years ago. I didn’t understand the big fuss until a friend from Virginia made a true homemade red velvet cake for me. Now, I am a fan. I do love a fried chicken wings, fried okra and biscuits.
What is your favorite item or piece of clothing to wear/use while doing business?
I usually wear one piece of jewelry with wings. It reminds me that the sky is the limit.
Images of event courtesy of Love Jones Designs, Inc.
Comments
Michiel is a Black Southern Belle living a lowcountry life. I love all things fashion, home decor and southern! When I am not running around doing fun stuff for Black Southern Belle, I live in antique stores and have a minor obsession with historic homes :)
