We had the good fortune of connecting with Bennell LaPorte and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bennell, what’s your definition for success?
Success to me isn’t defined by the major milestones that others can see and celebrate but rather, by the smaller, incremental steps that it took to get me to those big moments. Often times, it’s so easy to get caught up in chasing the next big thing – the next major client, the next industry accolade, etc, – but for me, it boils down to something much simpler than that.

Success are the moments when you kept going even though you had nothing left in your tank to give. Success is believing in yourself when others wouldn’t or couldn’t, and proving everyone wrong once you cross the finish line. Success is deciding to do something without the foggiest idea of how to actually get it done and figuring it out along the way. Success is in the people you inspire on your journey, that you may not even know about, but that are motivated by the barriers they see you breaking and the possibilities they now see as viable.

As an event planner in the earlier part of my career, I used to live by the motto ‘You’re only as good as your last event.’ While there’s still some truth to that in that we must always continue to push and innovate so we make the industry as a whole better, I now view that a bit differently. Now success to me is in the way I engaged with my clients and how they speak about me, my company and my brand once everything is done.

It’s in the emails and phone calls I get months or even years later telling me, ‘I can’t believe that event happened so long ago! My guests are still talking about _______ (insert event element here).’ While accolades and major milestone wins are important and I always gladly welcome them, the longer I’m in business, the more I realize that success is truly in the relationships I’ve built over the years. The innate trust that my clients and creative partners have in me to bring a vision to life. The way industry professionals seek my advice on different matters like a trusted confidant and listening ear. I’m a big believer that the small, intentional and personalized details are always what make the biggest impact and for me, in the work that I do, that boils down to ‘How did people feel when they were in your presence or as part of one of your events?’

If the response I get is a beaming smile, I know I’ve done my job well.

What should our readers know about your business?
LAPORTE & COMPANY is a premier full-service event planning and travel design firm. Our specialty is planning and designing exquisite experiences steeped in the art of luxury and immersive storytelling for discerning clientele in Arizona, California, Hawaii and exclusive worldwide destinations.

For us, the unique storytelling components come through in the way we weave the five senses into every facet of an event experience. Whether its a scent at the reception that takes you back to your most treasured memory or, a chef’s inspired take on that phenomenal dish you experienced while in Paris on holiday, we treat every part of your big day as an integral piece of the puzzle of your event’s story.

Travel Design is a new offering we launched late this year. After doing some extensive solo travel abroad and seeing how interested people were in understanding how I put those incredible trips together, I decided to add that as a service for our clientele. Our travel design services are specifically tailored for the modern woman who is ready to explore the world on her own terms. If you’ve ever wondered what it’d be like to explore the world solo but felt intimidated by the prospect of doing it without the comfort of travel companions, we’ve got you covered. We approach travel research and design the way we do our events – through the lens of innovation and curiosity. We work to discover the hidden gems that will allow you to experience a destination like a local, but more importantly, we consider how you can tap into the five senses along your journey so you create unforgettable experiences at every turn.

Brand wise, one of the things I’m most proud of has been our ability to provide exceptional service to our clients while maintaining an approachability that is sometimes hard to achieve. Our clients expect a lot from us and we in turn, expect a lot from ourselves. Ensuring we don’t get too caught up in the day-to-day but rather, remain the people that you’d be excited to grab a cup of coffee with even after your event is over has been key. For me, what you see is what you get – the professional, diligent, ridiculously organized yet humorous and lighthearted sides that make up who I am as a person is who I bring to the table as a business owner.

With an industry that is as unpredictable as Chicago weather on any given day, I love taking people behind the curtain with me to share what it’s really like to be an event planner. From my podcast that shares the hilarious and real talk about what truly happens behind the scenes at events to my blog where I share insights and musings on topics from business to travel, lifestyle and more, I get true joy from sharing a little bit of my world with the people who follow me on social media and/or who are simply curious about my work.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
As an event planner, one of my favorite things to do is host friends and family when they come to town. I’m originally from New York City so it’s in my blood to always seek out the best food spots and the unique experiences that will give people a true feel for the place they’re in. One thing that usually surprises people when they arrive in Arizona, but namely Phoenix, is what an amazing food scene we have here. From fantastic brunch and Happy Hour spots to incredible places to have dinner under the stars, there’s truly something for everyone in this town and there are new places popping up every week.

For first timers to the area, here’s what I’d recommend if they only have a few days.

Day 1: Our beautiful weather and majestic looking cacti greet visitors the second they land. Take a drive through Phoenix and then head into Scottsdale to get a lay of the land and see what this area is all about. If relaxation and spas is what you’re into, we have plenty of them to choose from. Indulge in a spa day at Miraval Arizona or The Phoenician before enjoying some time in the sauna or pool

Grab an afternoon pick me up at one of our many local coffee shops, Provision Coffee is a favorite, before taking a drive up to Dobbins Lookout for an up close view of the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. Grab lunch at The Henry to refuel (the Scottish Salmon bowl and spicy tuna with crispy rice are favorites) before heading back to relax for a bit before dinner.

For the evening, kick things off at Rough Rider (the underground bar in the Roosevelt Building in downtown Phoenix) that feels like you’re in a Gatsby era saloon. For dinner head to Ocotillo and if possible, enjoy dining al fresco. The appetizers are to die for but their entrees are delicious as well.

To cap off your first day, head to Tempe Town Lake for a crisp, nighttime stroll along the shore as the city comes to life lit up by all the buildings that surround it.

Day 2: Head out early and take a day trip to Sedona. Here, you’ll not only experience breathtaking scenery but some of the world’s strongest energy vortexes.

Start with a brisk 3.3 mile loop trail to the top of the Airport Mesa Vortex. Located right next to the airport, this trail provides spectacular panoramic views of Sedona while showcasing the area’s energetically charged features like the twisted trees and silver/green grass.

After you’ve worked up an appetite, head back down to the airport parking lot and head across the street to the Mesa Grill Sedona. With wall-to-wall views of the Sedona valley, enjoy a Blackberry Jalapeño Margarita or their refreshing Hibiscus Sweet Tea. Pair that with either the Fish & Chips (my personal favorite) or the Carne Asada Steak and you’ll be ready to go to your next stop.

Heading back into the main part of town, make a quick stop at the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Regardless of your religious affiliation, this church built into the rocks is truly a sight to behold – not to mention the views you get from the top of the hill.

Main Street District or Uptown Sedona awaits you next so you can indulge in some retail therapy. From custom, Southwestern local art to crystals, singing bowls, beef jerky and more, you’ll run out of daylight before you run out of shops to visit. If you’re into energy work and crystals, this is the place to get a souvenir to bring back home.

Begin the drive back down to Phoenix and stop by Buck & Rider for a delicious seafood dinner. If seafood isn’t your cup of tea, Windsor is a great alternative with amazing food and a chill, relaxed vibe.

Day 3: Day trips can be exhausting so sleep in a little and then head to brunch at one of my all-time favorite spots, Postino’s. Their Bruschetta boards are legendary and the vibes can’t be beat. Sit outside as you enjoy our great year-round weather and partake in some charcuterie options before your main selection arrives. You can easily knock out a couple hours at this place and not even notice.

After brunch head to one of the museums located in Downtown Phoenix or, if you want an old school Southwestern experience, then Old Town Scottsdale is just the ticket. Peruse shops, take some great photos, learn about the local artists and culture before you prepare for dinner that evening.

Top of the Rock is the quintessential spot I always recommend. Boasting spectacular 360 degree views from their outside patio, enjoy a world class culinary experience as you watch the sun set over the valley. The Tombo Tuna Cigar appetizer is a must try.

Day 4: Head home and begin planning your return visit!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
When you read a book, everything isn’t discovered in the first few pages. Rather, the story builds up over time and through various chapters. That’s how my journey has been. Each new person and experience has been integral to my overall story – whether it’s been an entire chapter, a short passage or merely a poignant sentence or quote.

In my personal life, my biggest supporters and beacons of truth have always been the amazingly strong women I’ve been surrounded with at every point in this life adventure. From my mother who believed that anything was possible (no matter how improbable or difficult it might’ve seemed), to my dearest girlfriends who have grown up with me and been my closest confidants and cheerleaders over the past 20+ years. When you’re surrounded by women who possess an indomitable spirit to not only succeed but to be a shining light and example to and for others, you can’t help but do the same in your own life. They say you become like the five closest people to you so I’ve made it a point to surround myself with only the absolute best.

Professionally, getting to the next level comes down to not only knowing when you’re ready for the next step but also, having the intuition to know who within your circle is capable and equipped to help you get there. That’s where my greatest mentors and coaches have come in. Whether it’s asking the tough questions or lovingly pushing me to get out of my own way and away from my comfort zones, the biggest breakthroughs I’ve ever had came from a place of being uncomfortable. Most recently, these business coaches have been Kathy Romero and Jereshia Hawk. Powerful Women of Color who are unafraid to flip the status quo on its head, go after what they want and help other women (unapologetically) do the same.

Website: https://laporteandcompany.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bennelllaporte/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bennelllaporte/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bennelllaporte

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laporteandcompany

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@bennelllaporte

Image Credits
Heidi Mixon Imagery Studio 3 Images Lasting Images Photography

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