Meet Autumn Washington | Event Producer and Owner of Autumn In July Events

We had the good fortune of connecting with Autumn Washington and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Autumn, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
Hey there, I want to introduce myself formally, my name is Autumn Washington, and I am the owner and event producer for Autumn in July Events. I’ve studied and worked in the event industry since 2012. Most of my event planning experience comes from working in nonprofits and putting on small and large community and fundraising events. Something I’ve noticed about doing events is that people don’t know what it takes to put on a successful event and what goes on behind the scenes. Large events take 3-6 months (small events maybe about 1-3 months) to prepare for; you have to book the venue, get the necessary permits, rent tables, and chairs, book bands, sell vendor booths, promote the event, hire staff, or volunteers, find sponsors, etc. Not to mention setting up on the day of the event, you are already physically and mentally exhausted before the event even starts. What makes it all worth it is seeing people’s smiles, hearing their laughter, and seeing them having a good time while attending an event you have created. It’s all about creating memorable experiences when it comes to my events.

What should our readers know about your business?

After working in the event industry for years and not hearing back from companies I was applying to, I just said, “F it, I think this is a sign to start my own business and do my own events.” So I got to work creating my brand and business plan. I officially launched Autumn In July Events in 2021. I’m using my experience and expertise to connect people and create memorable experiences with my events like speed dating events, speaker brunches, retreats, and so much more. I’m also available to anyone who needs an event planner to plan their special day like Baby Showers, birthday parties, business grand openings, etc.

Starting a business is certainly not easy. I’m still trying to make a name for myself and my business. I have to constantly remind myself that I need to put myself out there more by networking, posting more on social media, building up my social media followers, and finding various ways to market my business. Even with the highs and lows, I’m enjoying the journey and am excited for the future of Autumn In July Events.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my friend were visiting for a week, Day 1- I would take her to Crystal Cove State Park to visit the beach and go for a hike, then check out a restaurant and a couple of bars near the park. Day 2- I would take her on a tour of some of my favorite restaurants and rooftop bars in LA, drive on the PCH highway, check out some live music, do karaoke and go to Huntington Beach. Day 3- We would spend the day in San Diego, where we can check out La Jolla Cove, go to some of San Diego’s fun spots like Cannonball Rooftop, and maybe check out a winery. Day 4- Rest because we’re in our 30s and can’t hang like that anymore, lol, and I would probably cook for her. Day 5- Check out the shops and restaurants in Claremont. Day 6- Whatever she wants to do that we haven’t already done, and Day 7- Send her home and rest for the next day or two.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

ALL of my family and friends, especially my mom, Dope Queenz group, Spirit Besties group, Silvia Melendez, Rhonda Beltran, and Sherie Rodgers, have been supportive and encouraging. They all had to deal with me crying and whining about my career and listened to all of my crazy and over-the-top ideas. I love all of you!!!

Shout out to all of my NCNW (National Council of Negro Women) Pomona Valley Section sisters; you all have been nice and supportive. I’m so happy to be a member of this organization and be amongst other established and beautiful black women.

Shout out to Cris DuCree of Enriched Youth for shouting me out in her Shoutout LA article in February and for telling Shoutout LA to reach out to me for an interview. Yay! I made it thanks to you, haha.

Website: www.autumninjulyevents.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/autumninjuly_events

Facebook: www.facebook.com/autumninjulyevents