Becky Thomas is the founder and president of Mostly Becky, Des Moines-based wedding and event planner. While Thomas started the business as the sole planner on the North Shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota 13 years ago, Mostly Becky now has a team of five who have planned weddings in seven states, and counting. Learn about Becky Thomas…
Hometown: Iowa
First job: My mother is an entrepreneur, and she was my first employer. Outside of her as my employer, my first jobs were being a team member at Target and a local ice cream shop.
Favorite ways to spend your free time in IA: I love eating good food, going to the gym, spending time in nature and boating with the people I love!
Your biggest accomplishment and why: Besides building an amazing team of women who support each other, graduating with my Master’s in law has been my greatest accomplishment.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: I learned to stop looking around at what others were doing. I dialed in my focus on what I wanted out of life. Once I learned I could create a life I actually enjoyed living, everything changed for me as a person. This impacted my business to grow and be even better!
Someone who inspires you and why: My mom; she is the reason I had the gumption to start a business. She was tough, but she was a gracious teacher. Although I didn’t see it at the time, the things she was re-teaching me put me ahead of others. Her guidance allowed me to have confidence in my ability to build a life I loved.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: As a wedding planner, it’s one and done. You rarely get repeat clients, unlike other businesses that focus on customer retention. Wedding planners have to build something solid out of the gate. So, say yes to every opportunity for growth. Work for someone in the industry and learn as much as you can. Gain experience in other areas within the wedding industry, so you can better your knowledge to understand the bigger picture. Weddings are a team effort; the more you understand the vendors you partner with – the more successful the event will be.
Favorite quote: “When they go low, we go high.” –Michelle Obama
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I have traveled to 46 of the 50 states in less than four years! My love for travel doesn’t only apply to my business.
What makes someone fabulous: When you leave being a better version of yourself after spending time with them. Those people both encourage and challenge us.
One of the best people around. 🙌🏽