The Rollercoaster of Entrepreneurship: From Fear to Stella’s First Shine

Opening your own business is terrifying! Some days, I’m riding high on excitement and confidence, convinced I’m the next big thing in event planning. Other days, I’m curled up in a ball of pure fear, wondering why I ever thought I could do this. It’s like emotional whiplash, but with more coffee and fewer seatbelts.

I keep reminding myself that I’ve got an incredible support system—people who believe in me even when I’m not sure I believe in myself. But here’s the thing: I’ve never been great at asking for help. It makes me feel vulnerable, like I’m admitting I’m not enough. But my course instructor recently dropped a truth bomb on me: “You’re not an event planner anymore. You’re an entrepreneur who plans events.”

Cue the existential crisis.

Entrepreneur? Me? That word feels so big, so official. And yet, here I am, fumbling through spreadsheets, trying to figure out how to adult harder than I ever have before. Some days, I feel like I’m failing at this whole entrepreneur thing. I just want to plan events—I’m good at that! But I’m learning that being an entrepreneur means embracing the messy, uncomfortable parts too.

So, I’ve set a simple goal: Book one event in the next few weeks. Just one. That’s it. If I can do that, I’ll feel like I’m on the right track. One event at a time, right?

Speaking of events, let me tell you about Sidecar Stella. She’s almost ready to roll! My amazing stepfather has been an absolute rockstar, pouring hours and hours into this project. He’s been thoughtful, caring, and hilarious throughout the entire process. Every decision has been mine, but his smart feedback has made it so much easier. I hope when Stella rolls out to her first event, he’ll be as proud as I am. He deserves all the credit in the world.

How do you even begin to thank someone for something like that? I’ve been told a simple “thank you” is enough, but it feels too small for the gratitude I feel. Maybe I’ll name a cocktail after him. Or a charcuterie board. (Stepdad Special, anyone?)

Stella’s getting her moment in the spotlight with a photoshoot in May, and I just know she’s going to shine. I can’t wait to show her off to the world.

In other news, my business cards arrived yesterday, and—hallelujah—no spelling errors! Armed with these little rectangles of hope, I’m venturing into networking events. No more excuses. If you see me awkwardly handing out cards and trying to make small talk, please be kind.

So, if you or anyone you know needs a bartender, an event planner, or a charcuterie cart (yes, that’s a thing), please reach out. Let’s make magic happen.

Here’s to embracing the fear, celebrating the wins (no matter how small), and remembering that even on the hard days, we’re still moving forward. And to my stepdad: thank you. From the bottom of my heart.

Now, let’s go book that first event. Stella’s ready to shine.