Today we’d like to introduce you to Charlene Koda.
Hi Charlene, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My son is the inspiration for my entire business. When he was born, I use to take pictures of him as a baby every 9th of every month in a different theme… example a farmer, an astronaut, etc. I started acquiring different theme decor due to all the different pictures. Prior to having my son, I use to travel throughout the United States setting up showrooms or front window displays, so design was definitely in my blood. For his birthdays I started trying to do what I knew that was normal in the design world and incorporate that into his parties, so they were definitely a lot different than normal birthdays. I also went to school for photography which helped me; the pictures I took helped me advertise these events submitting them to popular social media party blogs, which eventually got me on the radar with some pretty amazing clients! This event design and prop rental company has been such a blessing and such a passion on mine words cannot express; my dreams and goals are still not full filled, I know God has so much more in store for us! We have learned and continue to learn with every client and event, we have had the opportunity to work with some pretty amazing vendors and clients, to which I am eternally grateful!
I always get asked how I came up with the name Chakoda (it’s the first 3 letters of my name Charlene and Koda is the name of my past West highland terrier baby)
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely has not been a smooth road; I really try to look at everything in a positive matter. Without mistakes, we would not learn to better ourselves and really strive to do our best possible.
I never really understood a long time ago when people would say “Blood, sweat, and tears”
This couldn’t be more true; this business if more than personal, as this is a testimony for a passion of work to share such beautiful moments with clients who call us to design for their special celebrations.
I use to worry about how starting a business could be successful, how clients would find us, how I would need to advertise etc. But the best possible advice I can give is to just do… and focus and the rest kind of just falls in place. I know God has played a HUGE role in all of this; there is no way that I would be where I am today without him. I had someone very close to me, in the beginning, tell me that my plan and idea was not going to work (I can’t say it didn’t hurt especially in that uncertain time) however I used those words of negative and fueled myself to prove them wrong! I believe that if you do something with a good heart and hard work, it will show in all you do.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My company specializes in theme prop rentals and event design. We create experiences that make you feel like you have stepped into the storybook. We are known for our different and unique events.
We have been a part of hundreds of themed events all over California.
We have hosted events for many celebrities and their families.
We are one of the first companies that cater to kids’ theme prop rentals and event design.
So many vendors, party planners, and starter companies have reached out to us saying that we are an inspiration to them and that they hope to be on our level one day as well! (That is the sweetest most nicest encouragement one can receive)
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My parents and brother have been my biggest cheerleaders throughout all these years! It’s the absolute best feeling to have someone believe in you and support all of my crazy ideas.
I have had my mom and dad help me with events; they are amazing hard workers with great work ethic; I look up to them so much! My dad does not have the word NO in his vocabulary which I absolutely love, he will always figure out a way to make it happen! I think it’s all possible!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chakodadesign.com
- Instagram: Chakoda Design
- Facebook: Chakoda Design
- Linkedin: Chakoda Design
- Twitter: Chakoda Design
- Youtube: Chakoda Design
- Yelp: Chakoda Design
