Augusta University
Raysean RicksAs Augusta University’s annual Alumni Weekend approaches, we’re celebrating alumni entrepreneurs.
Alexis Milton Carswell, a 2017 graduate of the Pamplin College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, is the co-owner of A&A Events, a full-service wedding planning and coordinating company.
Tell us about your business.
A&A Events is a full-service wedding planning and coordinating company that also offers balloon art installs. We have been in business for three years.
I also have two other businesses in addition to co-owning A&A Events.
The first is Blinx Rx, a natural lash extension company. Next is my most recent venture, The Social Gem, a full-service branding and marketing boutique.
All of my businesses started from passions I’ve already had within each industry. I’ve always loved lashes from performing at a younger age, so I was easily intrigued on learning how to do individual lashing in the natural styles I like.
For event planning, I’ve always wanted to be a wedding planner, and so when I got engaged 3 years ago it seemed like the perfect time to explore that world.
Lastly, I started my marketing company in response to being able to freelance the type of work I do for my clients versus working corporate.
What struggles have you overcome while being an entrepreneur?
I’ve had to overcome finding balance and staying true to my boundaries. I am a person that will burn out from trying to do everything. I’ve had to learn to gravitate towards the actions and decisions that would bring me balance. Staying true to my boundaries was key to this.
What skills did you acquire while you were a student that prepared you to lead a business?
I acquired the confidence to network and learn from different perspectives.
What lessons have you learned along the way?
When creating something, it doesn’t have to be perfect to begin. More a testament than a lesson for me, as that was my entire approach with starting The Social Gem, which was once branded ‘Thanks to Lex.’
What sets your businesses apart from others?
I take a lot of pride and love within my work. I am always going above and beyond, and I love making my clients feel like they’ve had an experience while working with me.
What is something surprising that people wouldn’t guess about you?
I can be so shy sometimes. I had bad speaking anxiety as a communication student, but I’m so thankful for Dr. Johnson’s classes because they really got me out of that.
What advice do you have for current students?
Take advantage of any opportunity you can create for yourself by just being interested. Get to know different people, and give yourself grace to find your path. It took me six years and changing my major three times!
Long story short, you’ll get there.
Where can we go to learn more about your businesses?
Check out more information about Blinx Rx by visiting our Instagram.
For A&A Events, you can follow us on Instagram and Facebook and visit our website to learn more.
Contact the The Social Gem directly, and follow me on Instagram.
Valerie Emerick
Stacey Eidson
