Melissa Cossette

Event Planning Coach & Celebration Consultant

www.maxeventconsulting.com

2 years

I am from Massachusetts and have lived in many towns across the eastern part of the state. Currently, I live in East Walpole, MA. My husband and I bought our home here in 2018 when we became a blended family with our four children. (Did you know… My husband and I were first sweethearts back in the mid-1990s when I was studying at BU. Life took us in different directions then, but the Universe had other plans. We reconnected after 20 years, and now we're happily married! That’s a story worth celebrating, don't you think?)

The pandemic pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and start something new instead of going back to the corporate grind. I saw it as a golden opportunity to build a business that aligned with my passion for mentoring clients on all the ins and outs and hidden secrets of event planning. At the beginning, MAXevent was all about bringing back the joy of gathering and celebrating after those long, lonely days in isolation. It took some time, but eventually, I realized that my own personal story had a lot to do with where I was headed.

Everyone has their own unique tales to share. And what better way to celebrate life than with a great party?! So, as an event planning consultant, think of me like a trusted coach or mentor. My goal is to guide you through the event planning process in a way that's approachable and stress-free. I don't want my clients to feel overwhelmed, lose sleep over decisions, or worry about forgetting important details. I'll help you find the perfect vendors, keep you on track, and provide the right guidance every step of the way, so you can have fun planning without wasting time on unnecessary distractions.

For me, success isn't measured in one way or in one area. I have already found success in many aspects of my life. I have not reached all of my business goals yet, but I think I will know it when I have. I want to live a life that is well-rounded and purposeful. I want the freedom to travel. I want to know my kids' educations are secured, and I have done everything I can to prepare them for life on their own. Once I have done that, I think I feel like I have found true success.

One of the most profound moments in my journey as an entrepreneur occurred when I had a realization that reshaped my entire perspective. It was an ``aha!`` moment that brought all the pieces together and unveiled the path I was meant to take. In that instant, I recognized that I had been meticulously laying the groundwork, and it was time to fully embrace my distinct approach—one that challenges conventional norms within the industry and prioritizes a group of individuals often overlooked.

This revelation filled me with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. I became wholeheartedly devoted to offering a program that goes beyond mere logistical support and truly uplifts and empowers women as they plan their events and celebrations. The essence of my offering lies in celebrating each woman's unique story and meeting her precisely where she is in her planning journey and supporting her to the end. Witnessing the difference my program makes in the lives of the women I help fills me with joy and an overwhelming sense of gratitude.

One of the biggest challenges I deal with in my business is the lack of a team around me. It can be tough to handle everything on my own and not have those go-to people to bounce ideas off or troubleshoot problems together. I really miss that camaraderie and the fun moments you get to share with colleagues. But I've found ways to overcome it. I've learned to lean on my trusted network and build relationships with other business owners I've met through networking, coaching groups, and communities like Boston Business Women. These connections have been a game-changer for me. It's amazing how much support and inspiration you can find when you reach out to the right people. They've become my sounding board, my go-to when I need advice, and even my source of laughter during challenging times. It's all about finding that support system, even if it's not a traditional team.

At some point, I came to realize that the harder days are simply a part of the journey, just as the amazing days are. When those tough moments arise, I take the time to support myself and listen to what my mind and body are telling me I need. I remind myself that tomorrow is a fresh start that might be filled with new opportunities.

I'll admit, I didn't always have this perspective. It took some time for me to embrace every experience, both the good and the bad, as valuable parts of the natural cycle. But once I made that shift, the harder days didn't seem so hard. I realized that they were just temporary setbacks and learning opportunities that ultimately pushed me forward. So, during challenging times, I try to look at the bigger picture and hold the belief that better days lie ahead.

Overall, being part of the BBW Inner Circle has uplifted me, provided me with valuable connections, and fueled my determination to pursue my dreams. I have tremendous admiration for women who confidently take charge of their business and go for what they want. It's truly inspiring to be surrounded by a community of fierce women who have fearlessly pursued their ideas and passions. Instead of feeling like I'm in competition with others, I find myself motivated to challenge and better myself.

I have had many proud moments. But recently I connected with a new vendor, she casually mentioned that she had heard of me and admired my reputation within our industry. I think at that moment I realized the significance of staying true to my own path over the past two decades and consistently striving to be the best version of myself. It reaffirmed the importance of staying committed to my values, continuously learning and growing, and making a positive impact on those around me. I think it was also a reminder to keep pushing forward, knowing that my actions and dedication have the power to inspire others and create a lasting legacy in my industry.

I have a passion for travel and wish I could do it much more often. I find true peace at the beach, preferably a tropical one because I love the hot sun and hate the cold. I love listening to music and I love to dance. I'm a social creature, but I also enjoy nights at home on the couch with my hubs watching a good movie or an addictive TV show. I think game nights are so fun - I am pretty competitive, so I play to win. I have a stack of books a mile high waiting for me - I keep buying them, but never seem to find time to read them.

My biggest accomplishment is being a mom to my two teen daughters. They are in middle school and high school now, and I don't know where the time has gone. I value relationships. I am there for my people - always. I have high standards - but higher for myself more that anyone else. I feel service is important - I volunteer my time with several non-profit organizations. I value integrity, commitment, and trust. I am so excited to see how life unfolds - I think the best years are yet to come!

I support well-rounded, successful women in their midlife who want to plan meaningful celebrations and impactful events. I believe in the power of face-to-face interactions and the energy that can only be felt in a room full of like-minded individuals. By crafting engaging and thoughtful in-person experiences, you create remarkable moments that leave lasting impressions. Together, we partner to turn your event dreams into reality, all while having a fun and stress-free planning experience.

One of my two core offers revolves around the celebration of love and marriage. Whether it's midlife marriage, remarriage, vow renewal, or a milestone anniversary, I believe these occasions deserve something more heartfelt and unique than a reservation in a private dining room. As we navigate every step together, I help you tell your unique story through celebration. I provide guidance, support, and invaluable insights that empower you to hold the reins and move confidently through the planning process, eliminating the need for someone else to do it for you.

I also love to work with ambitious women in business who want to step out from behind the screen and create in-person networking events and workshops that captivate and inspire their audience and leave a lasting impression. In 6-weeks, together we design an experience meant to expand your network, attract new clients, and elevate your brand influence to new heights!

People can find me on Insta and Facebook @maxeventofficial and @melissacossette. Stay tuned because the best is yet to come!