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

Hi Jackie, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The decision to start my own business stems from a passion cultivated over two decades in the hospitality industry. My desire to create something unique and offer experiences that genuinely resonate with people has been a driving force. Starting my own venture allows me the freedom to pursue my creativity and establish a career where I can grow and share my knowledge with others. As a role model for my daughters, I want to instill in them the belief that with dedication and hard work, they can shape their future and pursue their passions. Maybe one day, own their own business! 

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Fueled by a genuine love for hospitality and event design, I am all about turning your vision into a reality and creating an unforgettable experience. When it comes to your special day, my team and I take pride in treating you and yours like family and making every moment magical. With a focus on clear communication and deep understanding, we’ll guide you through the planning process, ensuring a stress-free, dream celebration. There’s honestly nothing quite like watching a vision come to life and feeling the pure joy of celebrating together!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Key West is a magical place with so many adventures to choose from! Our itinerary would look something like this!

Fly in on Thursday, have lunch at Salute on Higgs Beach, check in to the Casa Marina Resort, enjoy a cocktail in the Canary room, and ride bikes over to the vibrator races at Mary Ellens Bar, this is a weekly fundraiser supporting a local charity. Dinner on Duval St at Bagatelle restaurant and dessert at Better than Sex.
Friday would be a great day to get breakfast at Sandy’s Cuban and head out on the water! I like to enjoy a kayak tour of the mangroves with Lazy Dog and then have lunch on Stock Island at Hurricane Hole. Back to the Casa Marina to enjoy the pool or beach. Dinner at Louie’s backyard and out for late night fun at TUTU bar and Aqua for the drag show.
Saturday breakfast at Blue Heaven and off to Fort Zachary Taylor to explore hit the beach to snorkel the rocks. Bike over to the Southernmost point for a photo and head to the Mansion by the Sea for a lobster pizza lunch. Hemingway Home Museum and the Butterfly Conservatory are close by for a quick tour. Great Happy Hour at the Boathouse and a Ghost Tour on the Historic Tours trolley. Hogsbreath and Sloppy Joe’s after for late night music and grab a MrZs late philly cheesesteak on the way home.
Saturday take the Sea Plane to the Dry Tortugas and explore the fort. Back for pool time and a nice dinner at Latitudes on Sunset Key.
Sunday Brunch at Ocean Key Resort’s Hot Tin Roof. Football at Tattoos and Scars and a Gyro from Ingrids food cart. Sunset Festival at Mallory Square with Mojitos and Cuban Sandwiches at El Meson De Pepe for dinner.
Monday breakfast at the hotel and the Old Town Trolley tour around Key West. Hoping off and on the tour to shop at our favorite local shops! Kirby’s Closet, The Shops at Mallory, The Collection, and Soul House! Grab some conch fritters at the Conch Shack and a frozen dark chocolate key lime pie on a stick! Walk through the Audubon House and Harry Truman Little White House. Head to the Green Parrot for Bingo at 7 pm, also supporting a local charity. Late dinner at Nine One Five.
Tuesday breakfast at Pepe’s or Harpoon Harrys depending on the line! Jet ski tour around the island and happy hour at Half Shell Raw Bar. Ride bikes through the cemetery and grab a drink at Dons place. Catch a play at the Red Barn Theater or Waterfront Playhouse. Late dinner at Mary Ellens. Espresso martinis and dancing at General Horseplay.
Wednesday Banana Cafe breakfast with mimosas, check out local art galleries on Duval St. Island Contemporary, KW Pottery, LIK, and Wyland. Healthy snacks and shopping at the Green Pineapple. KW Lighthouse for a photo at the top and a martini at the Orchid Inn. And off to the airport from there! I’m sure we could squeeze in a few more late nights at Ricks Bar too!
Overall, take in the laid back conch culture, ride bikes, get on the water, indulge in the food and beverage, and ENJOY!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am grateful for many people in my life! I was raised by strong women who taught me to work hard. My family’s support and encouragement have enabled me to follow this dream. And I owe a tremendous amount of recognition to the incredible women entrepreneur community here in Key West. Their encouragement and guidance have empowered me to grow and thrive as a business owner. We believe in community over competition.

Website: www.jackiegibsonevents.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackie_gibson_events/

Image Credits
Rachel Ligon, Iris Moore, East to West Images, Rodeo & Co., Criss.s.photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.