Today we’d like to introduce you to Joan Cinquegrani.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
After working in non-profit events for a number of years, I was interested in getting into something that ignited my passions a bit more. I sent my resume to several event planners in the Chicago area, and one took a chance on me! I assisted with that planner on several weddings and was hooked.
I started Five Grain Events officially in January of 2010, and since then we have planned and executed more than 200 events. Currently we are focused on continuing with the social side of our business while building up the corporate side. We have also recently begun consulting with a local event space to help them market and communicate with potential clients in an effective way.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There have definitely been ups and downs! A particular struggle for me as a small business owner has been the balance between work and family. The year after my second daughter was born was really tough. At the end of the year when I assessed my dismal financials, I was ready to hand in the towel. However, after some soul searching I realized it is my privilege as an entrepreneur to make this business what I want it to be. Since then I have been able to be more successful and enjoy the process even more than before!
Five Grain Events – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
We are an event planning company that specializes in the logistical side of planning. Our clients range from needing full-service planning and event production support to those who are just looking for help executing an event they have already planned themselves.
We have streamlined our processes so that we can support our clients in reaching their particular goals in a way that is both successful and enjoyable.
What sets us apart is our vast network of connections, proven planning systems, and flexible services to be able to achieve desired results using the path that works best for each individual client.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
My proudest moment came after executing our largest event ever and the client wanted to sign on for the following year immediately!
Contact Info:
- Address: 2841 W. Armitage Ave.
- Website: http://fivegrainevents.com
- Phone: 773-359-3106
- Email: hello@fivegrainevents.com
Image Credit:
Jennifer Kathryn Photography http://jenniferkathryn.com
Anna Guziak Photography
This Is Feeling Photography
Cobalt Photography
Christy Tyler Photography
Alaina Bos Photography
Anna Guziak Photography
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