Kimberly Bakker – Founder, Kimberly Bakker Events

As a successful entrepreneur, CEO and event planner, philanthropist and chairperson on several non-profit boards, and full-time mom to a beautiful toddler, Kimberly Bakker expertly wears many hats. With an impressive educational background rooted at the University of Southern California, and a career-launching start as a San Francisco Protocol Officer at the Mayor’s Office, Bakker was undoubtedly poised for success. After perfecting a multitude of skills via spearheading various wildly successful events within her previous professions, Bakker’s entrepreneurial spirit struck, and Kimberly Bakker Events was borne! Through her namesake company, Kimberly expertly oversees every aspect of multiple events, and provides public relations, quality control, and business consulting services for clients.

What made you decide to branch out on your own, and create your company?

From a very young age, I thoroughly enjoyed the notion of creation, making something fantastic out of nothing. As a young girl, I entertained family, stuffed animals, and just about anyone with my elaborately imagined tea parties, and I grew to love the concept of hosting. Professionally, I was already deeply involved within the scope of putting together various types of events, and it only seemed like a natural progression to develop this love, along with expertly developed skills, into a business of my own. As a mom, it was also very important to show my darling daughter an example of a strong woman, who can wear many hats professionally, and also be a warm caretaker.

What sets Kimberly Bakker Events apart from all other event planning companies?

Throughout each event, from the planning phases, to the execution of those plans, I make a very concerted effort to provide a bespoke item for the hosts, giving their event a sense of hospitality, warmth, individuality, and a little bit of heart. For example, I may utilize my grandmother’s silverware for a small dinner party, which makes an intimate event so much more special than utilizing stock silverware. While the host is busy making the social rounds, and certainly not recognizing his or her own famished state, I create a bespoke platter to be taken home after the conclusion of the event. These small details are often the most cherished ones, and lend a personal touch that cannot be recreated.

What skill would you say is most useful within your career?

Undoubtedly, organization is key to success. With so many moving parts requiring perfection in order to execute an event, there is a lot of room for error. Working with various vendors, and maintaining strict timelines, being well organized may mean the difference between success, and utter failure. Thus, I create various categorized lists for myself, and for my staff. I find that these lists not only keep me organized, but also allow me to feel confident, and not worry so much about forgetting even the smallest of details!

Do you have any advice for others who are pursuing event planning professionally?

I would advise individuals who are interested in pursuing business ownership, and event planning, to truly trust their instincts. With age comes wisdom, and I’ve truly learned to trust my initial instincts, as they always guide me to the correct answers. By being your own guide, you can achieve whatever you set your mind to!