Event Planner Spotlight with Alexis Wells-Loneman, Owner of 6ixStory Events

July 15th, 2019 | hereschicago

How did you get into meeting & event planning? What were some of the hurdles you experienced?

Over the years I assisted a couple really great planning companies in Chicago. I also worked at a decor company where I really got to learn about the little things it really takes to pull off just one piece of the event puzzle. I took my love of both and created 6ixStory Events. There’s always new challenges. The biggest was working up the courage to start my own business. But hey, I’m here now and so happy that I’m getting to share who I am and what I have to offer to my clients.

What have you learned being on the job as a meeting and event planner?

I’m learning with each and every event. All clients are different people, want different things and expect different things. I’ve learned to really take time to get to know my clients so I can adapt the best I can to their needs. It’s not just about the event itself, it’s truly about the people.

What type of meetings and events you plan?

I plan social, mitzvahs, corporate & weddings.

What do you love about planning events and meetings in Chicago?

I love working with people. Finding out about why their event is important to them. Taking what their celebrating, infusing it with their personality and seeing both their and their guest faces when it all comes together. Also, just seeing all the logistics of the whole event team flowing seamlessly, like magic. The challenge of making that happen with all those on my vendor team and having it just work, I love it.

What skills do you feel it takes to be a successful meeting and event planner?

I think you need to have people skills, be good at logistics, have patience, grit (yes I consider this a skill), problem solving and sometimes the skill of a good poker face.

Who has been the biggest influence (professional and/or professional) in your life?

Honestly, my parents & my Nana & Papa. I get my more structured, disciplined and task driven self from my Mother but my creative, multi-tasking and energetic side from my Dad. They all have shown me what it means to work hard and have that pay off both professionally and personally.

What’s your favorite place in the entire world?

I have many more places I want to go but so far, my favorite place has a bit to do with my favorite person. I loved the time I got to spend with my husband in Maui. I also really love Spain and can’t wait to take him one day.

What’s your biggest goal in life right now?

To continue to grow my company and create something I am proud of for my family.

What should I know about you that I’d never think to ask about?

Ask me Whisky or Vodka…. Whisky every time.

What type of music do you love?

I love Pop, Rap, R&B, Singer-Songwriter, Soul. Most anything I can dance to.

When not working, what do you love to do?

I love TV. Some would say I’m a TVholic. I also love exploring the different areas of Chicago.

Besides your professional talent, do you have any personal talents? (Play guitar, etc.)

I feel I’m a pretty good dancer and I love to sing. I can also ice skate. Was once on a synchronized skating team.

Have you ever sung karaoke? If so, what song?

Um..Yes! Love Karaoke. Mainly with my besties though…in a private room. I don’t know how many people want to hear us belting show tunes.

Do you have any Association affiliations?

ILEA Chicago

Which book(s) have you read multiple times?

50 Shades of Grey, The Twilight Saga…I’m not ashamed

What’s on your bucket list?

3-Week European excursion, become fluent in Spanish, plan an out of country event, stay at an all-inclusive resort

What was your First concert?

Lil’ Bow Wow with my Dad and brother

If you had to go back to school or learn a new skill, what would you want to learn?

I would want to take some courses in Business Management & Development. It’s never too late to learn something new or expand your knowledge on what you’re doing.

What are your thoughts about Hereschicago.com?

Great resource for both vendors and clients alike to spark ideas and get connected.