Local Event Planner Lea Stafford Shares Expert Stress-Free Party-Planning Tips- "Never Lose Sight Of The End Game"

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Party planning, no matter how big or small, can be overwhelming and difficult, however with the extraordinary expertise from Lea Stafford Events, you can guarantee your gathering will be effortlessly spectacular and absolutely stunning.

With over 18 years of planning and designing experience, Lea Stafford is definitely no stranger to creating magical moments with her careful and artistic eye for interior design, and naturally talented passion for hospitality. A loving wife, mother of two, creative entrepreneur, and founder of the Ethos West Collective to unify and elevate marginalized voices within event planning, Lea is a local superstar, hailing from our own vibrant Oakland.

We had the brilliant chance to chat with Lea all on about her inspirational background and ingenious approach to crafting the perfect party atmosphere while also curbing the stress, all to give you the right entertaining tactics this Thanksgiving holiday.

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Hi Lea, thank you so much for taking the time to chat! Starting off, how did growing up in Oaklan/Bay Area influence your sense of style or personal perspective?

Oakland is such a culturally rich place built on community. It’s full of personality, expression, and free spirit. Because I was exposed to all of this at such a young age, my daily movement and decision-making process is to view many things from different angles and to welcome different.

This truly allows me to be as creative as possible, embracing “a different way.” I am eager to find that one client who isn’t afraid, isn't afraid to push the boundary as far as we possibly can.

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When it comes to event planning, how does being careful and conscious of the right details contribute to the overall experience/ambience of the event?

Thoughtful planning adds a level of depth to your event. It easily goes from just another event to a collection of moments that tells a story, or takes you on a journey, both with an underlying tone of purpose.

You tremendously founded the Ethos West Collective in 2020. Why is it important to uplift and empower marginalized individuals not only within the event community, but also in other spaces?

It provides exposure and more importantly, a sense of being. Seeing someone who comes from the same place as you, fight the same fight as you, or simply speaks the same, a level of comfort and confidence suddenly becomes welcome.

You begin to consider a path a) you may have not known existed b) feel empowered to enter into a space with healthy disruption.

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What is your advice or approach on handling party planning disagreements or stress?

Never lose sight of the end game, the goal is to throw a successful event. You define “successful” in this case and that should always be your Northstar. So, in the event of a dispute, gather yourselves together and answer the question “what is going to get us as close as possible to the goal of the event?” Then you take it from there.

We'd love to know- what are some of your best tips or "life-hacks" when it comes to party planning?

1) Lean into the location, don’t host a disjointed event - be sure that your location and vibe match
2) Give the people (guests) what they want, make sure they have fun with activations and engagement
3) Good food and drinks
4) make it easy for everyone to show up and be fully present

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Lastly, what are some of the most rewarding parts of your profession?

There are a couple of things here. I thrive on gratitude. When clients, partners and/or team members are truly happy with and grateful for the outcome, that is so satisfying. I also really, really enjoy never repeating a style, no two events should feel the same, because they are not.

Thank you for your thoughtful and kind answers, Lea, and we can't wait to see your future successes!

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You can view Lea Stafford's remarkable event portfolio, as well as inquire on her services here.

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This interview has been edited and condensed.