Ep. 034: Starting a Wedding Coordination Side Hustle w/ Jade & Ivy

Cracking the Side Hustle Code: Building a Wedding Business in Des Moines

In the heart of Iowa, where entrepreneurship thrives and community is everything, a new business is making waves. The latest episode of the "Rhymes of Odd" podcast, hosted by Des Moines' own Ryan Snaadt, dives deep into the inspiring story of Kayla and Kenzie, the dynamic duo behind Jade & Ivy Events. This isn’t just another business podcast; it's a blueprint for any aspiring Des Moines entrepreneur looking to turn a passion into a thriving side hustle.

This article serves as a comprehensive overview of the episode, offering valuable insights, key takeaways, and a healthy dose of inspiration for anyone considering a career pivot or starting a small business in the Des Moines, Iowa area.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HY_miG-s-w

From Therapeutic Paths to Planning Perfection: A Unique Story of Synergy

The journey of Jade & Ivy Events is a testament to the power of finding your "yin to your yang." Kenzie, originally from Oskaloosa, Iowa, and a Simpson College alumna (where she crossed paths with host Ryan Snaadt!), found her calling in recreational therapy after considering occupational therapy. This unexpected path took her across the country, but the magnetic pull of her Iowa roots eventually brought her back home.

Kayla, hailing from the small town of Zearing, Iowa, followed a similar trajectory. Also starting with therapeutic intentions (her dream was to be a Child Life Specialist), she too found her professional home in recreational therapy, working in Des Moines for several years.

Fate intervened when they met while working in the same therapeutic department. They quickly realized their backgrounds, personal stories, and professional ideologies were perfectly aligned. As Kenzie perfectly summarizes, they were like "yin and yang," complimenting each other's strengths.

Identifying Translatable Skills: The Unlikely Link Between Therapy and Weddings

One of the most valuable lessons for any entrepreneur, especially those considering a side hustle, is identifying translatable skills. Kenzie and Kayla demonstrated this brilliantly. At first glance, recreational therapy and wedding coordination seem worlds apart. However, they astutely recognized the overlap.

"A lot of the logistical things that go into planning programs and treatment plans for patients is the same as it does for weddings," Kenzie explains. Both fields require:

• Needs Assessment: Understanding a patient's abilities and goals is remarkably similar to identifying a couple's vision for their big day.

• Barrier Identification: Recognizing potential hindrances (whether physical, emotional, or financial) and finding creative solutions is key in both therapy and event planning.

• Program Development/Logistics: The meticulous planning, sequencing of events, and vendor management involved in a successful wedding parallel the structured approach of a treatment plan.

Their background in recreational therapy, which often involves helping people rediscover their passions and find joy, perfectly prepared them for the high-emotion, high-detail world of weddings.

The Power of Intention: Overcoming Fear and Launching with Purpose

For years, Kayla and Kenzie harbored the dream of starting a wedding business, but they were held back by common fears. "It just seemed like a really big far-off dream starting a business. We have no experience," they recall feeling. They considered pivoting to "safer" options, but the call of the wedding industry was undeniable.

The turning point came with a simple, powerful thought: they had spent years helping others find their passions—it was time to do it for themselves. In November 2023, after securing their EIN (Employer Identification Number), Jade & Ivy Events was officially born.

For Des Moines entrepreneurs, this section is particularly resonant. The initial hurdle of fear is often the most significant. Kayla and Kenzie’s story is a reminder that you don't need a business degree; you need passion, a solid plan, and the courage to take that first step.

Branding with Meaning: The Story Behind "Jade & Ivy Events"

A compelling brand name is crucial for any business, and Jade & Ivy Events is no exception. They initially explored countless names, often texting ideas back and forth. Their search was guided by their long-term vision of owning a venue with "brick and greenery," leading them towards natural, warm tones.

"Ivy" was a natural choice, evoking the timeless, comforting aesthetic they desired. "Jade" holds a deeper, more personal meaning, as it's the middle name of Kenzie's daughter. While they humorously considered including Kayla's daughter's middle name, Rose (joking that "The Jaded Rose" sounded more like a tattoo parlor than a wedding venue), they ultimately landed on "Jade & Ivy." The name fits their current mission and their future aspirations, demonstrating the power of a well-considered, personally meaningful brand identity.

Community Over Competition: The Des Moines Advantage

One of the most striking aspects of Kenzie and Kayla's journey is their deeply held belief in "community over competition." In an industry often perceived as cutthroat, they have been overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of others in the Des Moines, Iowa business community.

They credit mentors, including host Ryan Snaadt himself, and even strangers with helping them navigate the complexities of starting a business. People were willing to offer advice for free, or a minimal cost, reflecting a supportive ecosystem that is unique to the area. This "Des Moines Advantage" is something they are passionate about paying forward, aspiring to be a source of support for other new business owners.

Navigating the Challenges of a Des Moines Side Hustle

Running a side hustle is no small feat, and Kayla and Kenzie are transparent about the challenges. Both still hold full-time positions, meaning Jade & Ivy Events demands long nights, late consultations, and constant email monitoring. "I'm staying up a lot later than I used to," Kayla admits.

For any Des Moines resident considering a side hustle, this is a realistic picture. It requires discipline, sacrifice, and a deep love for what you do. However, for Kenzie and Kayla, the ability to operate as a low-risk venture, learning the industry while still having the security of full-time employment, makes the challenge worthwhile.

Redefining the Wedding Experience: Transparency and Flexibility

Drawing from their own wedding planning experiences, Kayla and Kenzie are on a mission to improve the process for other couples.

• Transparency: A major pain point for Kenzie, who planned her Iowa wedding from Philadelphia, was the lack of available pricing. Hours were wasted requesting quotes that never arrived, or that were wildly out of budget. Jade & Ivy aims to eliminate this frustration with upfront, transparent pricing.

• Flexibility & Inclusivity: Both founders emphasize the importance of non-restrictive policies. They were frustrated by venues with "preferred vendor" lists that bloated budgets (e.g., being forced to pay for a specific caterer when they would have preferred a simpler, more affordable option like Olive Garden). Jade & Ivy is dedicated to finding ways to fit diverse budgets, ensuring that couples can have the wedding they want, with the people they love, without compromising their financial future.

The Long-Term Vision: More Than Just a Des Moines Wedding Venue

While they currently offer day-of coordination and planning, their ultimate dream is a physical space. In their "mind's eye," they see a warm, comforting, historic brick venue that is inclusive to all.

But their vision extends far beyond typical weekend weddings. Utilizing their therapeutic backgrounds, they imagine the venue as a "flex space" for the community:

• Mid-Week Community Programs: They envision offering therapeutic programs or contract work for populations like the Special Olympics.

• Health and Wellness: Kenzie, a yoga instructor, sees potential for hosting mid-week yoga classes.

• Flexible Event Space: The venue could serve as a boutique space for birthday parties, corporate meetings, and other community events.

This forward-thinking approach is invaluable for any marketer or business owner in Des Moines, Iowa. Thinking beyond the primary service and leveraging your unique skills can unlock multiple revenue streams and deepen your community impact.

Takeaways for Aspiring Des Moines Entrepreneurs

This episode of "Rhymes of Odd" is a goldmine for anyone looking to launch a side hustle in Des Moines. The key takeaways are clear:

1. Identify Translatable Skills: Don’t underestimate the experience you gain in one field; it often holds surprising value in another.

2. Lean into Community: The Des Moines business ecosystem is incredibly supportive. Build relationships, seek mentors, and embrace the spirit of collaboration.

3. Start Small, Dream Big: Kayla and Kenzie launched their business while working full-time, building a low-risk foundation while keeping their ultimate goals in sight.

4. Find Your Purpose: Their drive to help others, a fundamental part of their therapeutic work, is now the heart of their business mission.

For a deeper dive into the world of side hustles, wedding planning, and the dynamic Des Moines entrepreneurial scene, we highly recommend listening to the full episode of "Rhymes of Odd" with Ryan Snaadt. You’ll be inspired by Kayla and Kenzie's story and equipped with practical advice to start your own entrepreneurial journey in the vibrant heart of Iowa.