Melva LaJoy Legrand, CMP, DES
CEO and Founder, LaJoy Creative
Proudest Moment: There was a moment when I was on stage in Puerto Rico presenting the business case for diversity, equity and inclusion. After the presentation, multiple people who share my racial and gender identity said to me “It felt so good to see someone like me up there saying things I am often afraid to say.” A younger woman in a male-heavy company hugged me so tightly so I asked her, “What was your biggest takeaway?” Her response gave me chills. She said, “courage…I feel courageous, so thank you for that gift.”
Takeaways: Every single time I speak, my intention is that everyone walks away with a new perspective or approach to whatever they are facing, be it professionally or personally. I firmly believe and have too many examples of what happens when we look at ourselves and our work with a factual record of what we are capable of.
When I speak, it is my hope that people are not too attached to this version of myself but more so connected to the story of struggle that led me to my current learnings. It is why I share so much of myself because I believe it is a responsibility that if you are lucky enough to grow and lead something, you must share openly how you got here, when you failed, and the moments you did not know if you would survive.
And when the motivational piece falls flat, I use data to affirm what I know to be true about leadership, business development and sustainable success.
Need to Know: For anyone working with me, I am going to ask you these questions: What is your why? Meaning why this talk and this time because understanding your purpose helps me match your moment. Second, who is in the room? I mean this fully. I want to know what people are bringing in even if it is difficult because my responsibility and honor is to craft something where every single person can walk away with at least one nugget to further their personal development.
Dee Lee
MP, Event Producer, Educator, Dee Lee Designs
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments was speaking internationally in the Dominican Republic, where I had the honor of educating fellow professionals as both a travel advisor and meeting planner. Standing on that stage, surrounded by a global community of passionate creatives, I felt the true power of connection and shared knowledge. It wasn’t just about teaching—it was about exchanging ideas, elevating standards, and representing the industry I love on an international platform. That experience reminded me why I do this work: to inspire, to empower, and to build bridges through travel and celebration.
Takeaways: A clear understanding of what true luxury means in the modern wedding and event landscape—and how to translate that into an unforgettable guest experience. Actionable strategies for branding yourself with intention in a saturated market without losing your identity or voice. Insight into the planner’s evolving role as storyteller, experience curator, and global connector—especially in destination and multicultural events.
The importance of purposeful design, elevated service, and authentic client connection as key differentiators in the luxury space. How to lead with inclusivity and integrate DEIB principles into your brand, client experience, and vendor partnerships in a way that’s thoughtful—not performative. A broadened perspective on global education, collaboration, and how cross-cultural learning can elevate both your events and your business.
Need to Know:
When you work with me, it’s more than a partnership—it’s a collaboration rooted in trust, respect, and shared excellence. I believe in building strong community connections, not just assembling vendor lists. I expect professionalism, clear communication, and a shared commitment to delivering a luxury experience for every client. I value working with planners who are solution-oriented, culturally aware, and dedicated to uplifting others in the industry. Come prepared to share ideas, ask questions, and grow together. I’m passionate about mentoring, educating, and connecting people across markets—and I love working with those who understand that luxury isn’t just about how it looks, but how it makes people feel. If you lead with intention and heart, we’re going to do great things together.
Ashley Brooke James
Co-Founder, TRILUNA Wellness + Events
Proudest Moment: Life:One of my proudest moments is knowing that my nieces and nephews have been able to witness me build a life they admire and want for themselves. Through my work, I’ve become a representative for them—and for other Black and Brown children and young professionals —showing that their creativity, vision and talents are valid. They can create any future they’re willing to work for.
Career:Co-founding TRILUNA with a like-minded partner who shared the vision of redefining wellness has been an incredibly proud moment. Together, we’ve brought wellness into a new light, infusing everyday lives and events with meaningful, intentional practices.
Takeaways: Integrating wellness and mindfulness into your daily life and events doesn’t have to be complicated—it starts with getting back to the basics. Wellness is essential to our overall well-being. It enhances creativity and provides us with the mobility and clarity needed to navigate life’s events and challenges. As leaders, it’s up to us to model the behaviors we want to see. When we care for ourselves, we empower those around us to do the same—preparing everyone to execute the vision effectively.
Need to Know: Creating inclusive and safe spaces is my top priority—it’s embedded in everything I do. I take the time to listen and understand your needs so I can design the most impactful wellness experiences to elevate your event. I’m passionate about incorporating culture and community into every activation—whether it’s introducing a wellness ritual tied to the destination or partnering with local businesses to bring authentic, meaningful experiences to your attendees.
Terrica Skaggs
Mother Hustler, Terrica Inc.
Proudest Moment: Stepping onstage—after navigating a 20-year marriage, single motherhood of four children (including a son with autism), and building multiple thriving businesses—and realizing I wasn’t there in spite of those things… I was there because of them.
Each keynote, each workshop, each standing ovation represents not just strategy and sales mastery—but resilience, grit, and heart. Seeing fellow entrepreneurs and professionals light up with new possibility because of what I share—that’s my proudest achievement every single time.
Takeaways: I want audiences to walk away knowing this: you can build a business that funds your life—not consumes it. Whether I’m teaching pricing, sales, client experience or operations, my presentations give attendees actionable strategies to elevate their brand, own their value and sell with both confidence and service.
I infuse every talk with humor, real-world insights and an undeniable dose of empowerment—it’s like having a power talk with your best friend who refuses to let you fail. More importantly, I help them see that they are worthy of the wealth, impact and joy they’re building. Glamour meets grit. Vision meets execution. You will leave with both—and with the fire to act on it.
“The dream is free, but the hustle is sold separately.” That’s the heart of how I live, how I lead, and how I teach.
Need to Know: When you book me, prepare for magic—on stage and off. I show up prepared, polished and deeply connected to your audience’s needs. I deliver engaging, dynamic and practical presentations that are packed with real-world tools—not fluff. I am low-maintenance for planners and high-impact for audiences. I respect the craft of event planning and work collaboratively with your team to make your event shine. I also promote events heavily through my social channels and networks—because when I speak, I show up as a true partner. And yes, I bring my signature blend of style, substance, and a little sparkle.
