Debbie Jane Nelson, a prominent female entrepreneur, serves as the CEO of Think Mahogany, an esteemed events management company based in Accra, Ghana. With a robust 14-year tenure in the industry, Debbie reflects on the evolution of her journey and the challenges that have come with it.
In an interview with Just4WomenAfrica, Debbie candidly shared her insights, stating that the initial decade in the industry was relatively smoother. During this period, the market was less saturated, and clients tended to be within her age range or slightly younger, making for more relatable and straightforward interactions. However, the landscape shifted significantly in the last four years, presenting heightened complexities.
Debbie attributes the increased challenges to a surge in younger event planners entering the market, leading to a shift in clientele preferences. As a result, Think Mahogany has adapted its focus, now specializing in corporate events and milestone celebrations such as 40th to 80th birthday parties. This strategic pivot reflects Debbie astute understanding of market dynamics and her commitment to staying relevant in a competitive environment.
Anticipating these industry shifts, Debbie took proactive measures to diversify her business portfolio. Notably, she has played a pivotal role in empowering over 700 young women in the events management space. Many of these individuals have gone on to establish their own successful events companies or contribute significantly to the events sector, highlighting Nelson’s impact beyond her immediate business interests.
When asked about the process of hosting an event for clients, Debbie emphasized the importance of an initial free 15-minute consultation to gauge the client’s needs. This preliminary discussion sets the stage for a more in-depth paid consultation lasting three hours, where crucial details such as venue selection, color schemes, and other event specifics are meticulously addressed. Debbie approach underscores her commitment to delivering tailored and high-quality services while also discerning serious inquiries from casual inquiries.
Regarding vendor partnerships, Debbie values working with trusted professionals and encourages clients to bring their preferred vendor lists. However, she prioritizes collaboration with vendors she has prior experience with, citing the need to uphold her brand’s reputation and deliver exceptional outcomes for clients.
Notably, Think Mahogany has had the honor of working with esteemed clients such as the White House during Vice President Kamala Harris’s visit to Ghana, President Nana Akkufo Addo, Former President John Mahama, as well as renowned musician Stone Boy. These collaborations speak volumes about Nelson’s credibility and the company’s ability to handle high-profile events with finesse and professionalism.
In an industry marked by constant evolution and stiff competition, Debbie Jane Nelson’s journey with Think Mahogany stands as a testament to resilience, strategic foresight, and a commitment to excellence in event management.
