Ladies We Love: Sonia P. - Events Cherished, Founder

Sonia P.  is the founder of Events Cherished, an event planning company based in New York. She is known for her philanthropic arm and close attention to detail.  Events Cherished has received wide recognition for her work from various media outlets including Sahara One, iLand Magazine, Radio Chili, and more. Expecting over 500+ guests, Events Cherished Bridal Show 2012 is the talk of the town. It takes place at the grand Golden Terrace, several giveaways, including a Honeymoon vacation, and information on getting reality show involvement in Platinum Weddings and Bridezilla will be known. We discuss her vision, how it started, and the the future of Events Cherished.

“We want our clients to walk out of any event with a tingling sensation in their hearts. We want them to feel the warmth and love in the air.” - Sonia P., Events Cherished.

Amanda Ebokosia:  When did you have the idea to start event planning and why?

Sonia P: “I started event planning when my best-friend got married seven years ago. I began planning small private events like weddings, anniversary parties, and birthdays. Over the course of time, I decided this was something I wanted to take on as a career choice.”

Amanda Ebokosia: When planning these private events, was there a particular moment where you knew you wanted to make it an official business?

Sonia P:  “I was inspired by my husband who said, “You love doing this, why don’t you just give it a shot ?” It was the push that he gave me when he said, “whatever you decide, I am right behind you.” He was the one that gave me the outlet to find people and showed me how to contact them, the right people. The first event was an autism awareness fundraiser.”

“....he’s my rock, always behind me and supporting me--saying, just do it...”

On implementing ideas:

Sonia P: “I have a fantastic team, it’s important to form the right team. It’s odd the way things turned out. I was actually contacted by everyone who I currently work with. They were all asking  to be a part of this project.  In the end, their credibility turned out to be amazing.  They all have backgrounds in PR, marketing, and event planning. They have an interest in the field and a great passion for it. It’s not always easy for someone who is starting out to find people." 

"It’s never a one man show.”

Amanda Ebokosia:  "Since the start of Events Cherished, you have managed to always have a philanthropic component in all of your events. We find that unique, why is that? "

Sonia P: “I feel that you always have to give back to get something. You have to be thankful for everything you have. For me to have these opportunities, it’s  by the grace of God.I honestly believe in that. You should always be able to help out someone or some idea. ”

Amanda Ebokosia: “It’s like a domino effect.” 

Sonia P: “Yes, we have to just push the tiles.”

Amanda Ebokosia: “...and pay it forward.”

Sonia P: “I am not saying that any of my efforts are on a large scale or even close to what  other individuals in this world are doing.  We eventually want to reach that goal. We eventually want to be a part of something that’s a part of a grand plan.” 

Amanda Ebokosia: “Yes, you have done so much already. We believe in you.”

On 10/21/12- The Events Cherished Bridal Show 2012, benefiting American Cancer Society:

Sonia P: “We have several up-and-coming artists-- who have signed on to our event.  Most of them are New York locals, looking for their big break. We do have international artists who are going to join us. We have several fashion designers who are exhibiting their works on display-- related to bridal couture and reception. We also have an array of outfits being showcased for the fashions of 2013, not necessarily for 2012.  Proceeds will be given to American Cancer Society.”

Amanda Ebokosia: "You're also known to attract a very diverse audience at your events. Will this event be similar ?"

Sonia P: “The event is designed to promote and influence brides from all cultures and backgrounds. Whether it’s Asian, African, European, South American-- it’s designed to promote all brides. Vendors today are looking for a wider demographic to cater to because they’re able to do that. Weddings are becoming more elaborate. Brides are able to input their ideas more and vendors love that. “

“We’re very selective with who we choose to work with in our projects. The objective is to provide top quality vendors under one roof. We also have a phenomenal  sound and lighting production company, which have been able to cater to every background.”

On Interracial marriages:

Sonia P:  “There are so many interracial marriages that the blend of cultures and the fusion of ideas are amazing. It’s like a rainbow and you can select from everything-- that’s the objective of the event, to provide that rainbow for you to pick, mix, match, and create your own  perfect day.”

“..We will make sure all the (T)s are crossed and the I(s) are dotted.”

10 years from now Events Cherished plans to expand and have a global reach, while providing services, events,  and fundraisers on a large-scale.  

Amanda A. Ebokosia is a freelance writer, speaker, and founder of The Gem Project, Inc. The Gem Project is a not-for-profit organization that assists youth in leading and benefiting from educational enrichment programs, which simultaneously hone their skills of leadership and community organizing. These programs are developed by the Gem Project. The Gem Project has been featured in: HelloGiggles, The White House Blog (Young Americans), The Star Ledger, Newark Live, Yahoo Voices, and others. You may find her on twitter: @ebokosia or her personal site, amandaebokosia.com.