How a Pivot Led to Purpose: The Story Behind My First Event

How a Pivot Led to Purpose: The Story Behind My First Event

In July of 2024, I made a major pivot. I stepped away from educating with a brand and chose to start putting that energy back into me. Leaving wasn’t easy, but it was necessary. I didn’t feel aligned, and working under leadership that didn’t reflect the kind of mentor I aspire to be made that decision even more clear.

After walking away, I took time off. I didn’t work. I didn’t force creativity. I focused on my salon, doing nails, and just gave myself space. I knew I needed that pause to come back to myself.

Then in September, something shifted. I took a master educator training with Erica from Erica’s ATA and Hillary Dawn Herrera in Salt Lake City the weekend before the Utah Nail Expo. That weekend changed everything. It gave me clarity, confidence, and most importantly—it helped me see that one negative experience doesn’t have to define how I view this industry or the people in it.

Letting that one chapter close allowed me to find new mentors who lead with heart and humility. It reminded me that there are good people in this industry who genuinely want to see others succeed. I didn’t even have the money to take that class, if we’re being honest. But I knew I needed to do it for me. And looking back, that investment was the spark I needed.

By the end of that weekend, the idea of hosting an event wasn’t just a dream—it was a plan. I quietly kept it in my back pocket during those months of rest, but deep down, I knew it was the next big thing I wanted to do. I’ve always loved bringing people together, and I knew I could create something meaningful for our industry. Something fresh. Something real.

On Black Friday, I dropped my first tickets—and the rest is history.

This event came to life during a season of stillness, rebuilding, and getting clear on what kind of impact I actually want to make. And it only happened because I chose to walk away from something that wasn’t meant for me. It’s a reminder that:

• It’s OK to pivot.
• It’s OK to rest.
• It’s OK to start over, even if your confidence is low.
• It’s OK to be proud of where you’re going next.

This event became possible because of the people who believed in the vision—before every detail was finalized, before there were sponsors, and before there was any real “proof” that this would work. Attendees bought tickets not knowing exactly what they were walking into, just trusting that it would be worth showing up for—and I will never forget that.

To every panelist who said yes, thank you. To every person who attended, supported, or cheered from the sidelines, you were part of something bigger than just a one-night event. And to the sponsors who said yes (and even those who said no)—thank you. You helped me learn, stretch, and prepare for what’s coming next.

Because this? This is just the beginning.

I’m already planning for 2026. Bigger energy. New voices. Even more connection.

Make sure you’re following @itsjustbusinesspresents for sneak peeks, early bird details, and behind-the-scenes of what’s coming next.

Let’s keep building something beautiful—together.