Happy City Box

Kenyon has spent most of her adult life in the event planning business. She received a master’s degree in event management from Auburn University, the only such degree the university has ever awarded. She used that specialized degree as her ticket to Europe, where she worked as the special events manager at the exclusive Warren House in London, England. While there, she planned a wide range of events from gala dinners, product launches and charity balls to weddings, garden parties and birthday celebrations.

“Much of my style comes from my time in London,” she said. “I planned events for people of various cultures and religions and from all walks of life.”

After returning to the states and starting a family, she said she got back into the event business somewhat by accident. “I started by having my own kids’ birthday parties, and the word spread.” Today, kids’ parties are still some of Barbara’s favorites. “You can get so creative with children’s parties,” she said. “There really is no limit to the imagination.”

While she readily admits many of her events are considered “luxury” events, both in scale, complexity, and budget, she said she can offer a range of services and work within a wide range of budgets. “I can work within any budget. I don’t want people to think it’s too expensive to have an amazing event. I can always find a way to help clients have a stunning event.”

Currently, she specializes in luxury birthday parties for children and adults, dinner parties, milestone celebrations, weddings, corporate events, rehearsal dinners, and just about any kind of special celebration. She also has recently started working on “house reveal” parties for developers to entertain and showcase their work to potential buyers.

Barbara loves everything about the styling, design, and event management process. “I love every aspect of this work. I love the imagination, the concept, the logistics, the events themselves… it’s all wonderful.”

But what she really specializes in, Barbara said, is making events personal, for both the host and the guests. “I work directly with each client – I don’t refer them to other people.” She does have select vendors she works with regularly and assistants, but when it comes to working with the client, “I do it all myself.”

This close relationship with the client, Barbara explained, allows her to create a truly personalized event. “I love getting to know people, and I believe there is a science to emotions. For example, what colors are pleasing to the client? Are they outgoing or a little more reserved? How do they want the event to flow? What is the overall event feel that the client is wanting to achieve? I customize every aspect of the event, down to the smallest detail, so it is perfect for the host or hostess. Because if they are comfortable, it’s going to be a great event for everyone.”

“Most of all, I love to serve,” she continued. “My goal is to make people happy. When it comes to event design and management, logistics are a big part of the equation – yet the most important component to me is making sure everyone is happy.”

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