Shawna Young

In 2009, my passion in the events industry led to a dream internship in Los Angeles. My colleagues there gave me the confidence and encouragement to open Young Designs in my hometown when I moved back. Young Designs is an event design and production company specializing in coordinating and designing weddings as well as corporate and nonprofit events. I also work part-time with The Markham Group and U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program, planning and coordinating veteran and military spouse hiring fairs across the country.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

How did you know this is what you wanted to do?

In college I shadowed a wedding planner, Jenessa Bailey, to see what a typical day was like. After volunteering for 18 hours, I still had a smile on my face and loved everything I had learned. That was my sign.

Best moment of your career so far?

Being part of the Arkansas Children’s Hospital Miracle Ball planning team for the past five years. It is one of my favorite events, and I get to witness how generous our community is in raising money to help the children of Arkansas.

Best advice you’ve ever received?

Be a sponge and soak up as much information as you can from every event and experience you encounter.” David Merrell with AOO Events in Los Angeles said this to me when I asked for his advice in learning the industry.

If you could have lunch with any woman, who would it be and what would you order?

Since I’m a country music fan, I’d say Miranda Lambert. I just love how down-to-earth she is. You can tell she stays true to herself and her music. We’d order southern comfort food like chicken-fried steak.

What is a typical workday like for you?

During wedding weekends I’m usually on-site for setup starting at 9 a.m., especially if we are doing the flowers and design. We set up, assist with photos, coordinate the ceremony and reception, then clean up after till about 1 a.m.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Time goes by a lot faster than you think. Always put faith first, follow your passion and never lose focus of your values. Listen to the needs of others, be a friend to all and live life to the fullest.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I’m lucky that I get to work with couples on one of the happiest days of their lives, helping make memories that will last a lifetime. I love watching the brides see their event design and vision come to life!

Who is your role model?

I have to pick two: my parents. They are two of the most supportive and hardworking people I know. They are constantly there for me, whether I need feedback, advice or additional help on-site at an event.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

How did you know this is what you wanted to do?

Best moment of your career so far?

Best advice you’ve ever received?

If you could have lunch with any woman, who would it be and what would you order?

What is a typical workday like for you?

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Who is your role model?

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Neighborhood you live in

Maumelle

Hometown

Maumelle

Last good read

“The Longest Ride” by Nicholas Sparks

Favorite Food

Mexican

Favorite Lunch Spot

Local Lime and U.S. Pizza

First thing you do at the office each morning

Check emails

Last splurge

Shoes

Hobbies

Lake trips and Razorback football games

Dream Vacation

Mediterranean cruise

Favorite Song

“Do it Anyway” by Martina McBride

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