Meet Daphnee Desauguste | Wedding & Event Designer

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

Hi Daphnee, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
The most difficult decision I’ve ever had to make was leaving my teaching /coaching career after 13 years. In the past years, I had been going back and forth with the decision in head until November 2022 I decided to leave. It was not easy at all and it took a lot of fasting and praying until I heard from God. I remember this vividly; I went to my weekly prayer meeting and my spiritual mother Louisiana Jean Baptiste asked me to come forward to pray for me. She continued and said God had spoken and said you will be leaving your job, and you will be pursuing your business full time. I was shocked because I never discussed with her what I was feeling or thinking, and God spoke through her. I knew instantly it was time, and I didn’t have to fear because my Jehovah Jireh will provide for me even when business is slow. And here I am a full-time entrepreneur with the help of God, family and great clients.

What’s one thing about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
Event Planning/Designing is not an easy job. Oftentime clients don’t think about all of the hours and hard work that go behind the scenes to make sure they get an exceptional experience. Furthermore, lots of time are spent researching the right vendors to make sure they fit our clients’ expectations. After it’s all over, I must spend additional time breaking things down, cleaning/sanitizing décor items, furniture and so forth for the next event.

In addition, the event industry continues to change each year because of the emergence of innovative technology and new ideas, with the demands of clients wanting their events to reflect on the latest event trends and style. It is important to attend workshops/classes so we don’t lose potential clients because of our outdated skill set. Personally, I’m continuously attending classes/workshops. Allow me to tell you they are not CHEAP. As event planners/Designers, we make many sacrifices to obtain our clients vision.

Other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?
The most important decision I made that contributed to my success was letting go of my fear, and by doing research and looking at established event planners and designers in the field. I was afraid to pursue my dreams regardless of what God has been telling me to do for many years because of fear. So, I had so many different fears running through my head for many years, such as the fear of failure, the fear of saying no, the fear of not having enough time for my daughter. Then one day, I received a call from my spiritual dad Pastor Isaac Ikandepe. It was about a message he received from God regarding me taking my business serious and letting go of my Fear. It was a very emotional moment for me. I cried and prayed to God to help me get over my fear, because if he gives me a vision, I know he will make provisions. After praying, I looked at myself in the mirror, and I said Daphnee you are destined to be GREAT and FEAR cannot stop what God has in store for you. Subsequently that same day, I decided that I won’t worry about what will happen next. I realized I’ll be compelled to operate the same markets, limit my growth, and stay within my comfort zone. Since, I’ve made it my business to work hard and to trust the Lord. I encourage everyone to chase their dreams and let go of fear today. You can do it!!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As a South Florida native and someone that loves to eat and have a good time. I would take my best friend to brunch in the morning to Honey uninhibited in Miami and at night we would enjoy ourselves at a poetry night event.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition? 
I would like to dedicate this shoutout to God first for giving me this creative gift. Everything that I am I owe it to him. Therefore, I trust him to direct and guide my path each day. He knows BEST! In addition, I would also like to dedicate this shoutout to my loving family who has had a huge impact on my personal and business life. My spiritual mother Louisiana Jean Baptiste and my Spiritual Father Pastor Isaac Ikandepe. They are always there to pray for me and encourages me to never give up. Lastly, I would like to dedicate this shout to all my friends that have supported me along the way especially Fladine Pierre & Alciner Dorisma. They have always been there for me from the very beginning and I can always count on them to give me a helping hand. I will forever be grateful for my support system.

Website: aboveandbeyondeventdesigns.com

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Image Credits
Widgy Normil- widgynormilphotography Ralph Raymond- Rjraymondproductions