what our clients say
We are honored to have a 95% referral-based agency, with 95% of our nonprofit, corporate, and private event clients working with us repeatedly for 2+ years.
“I completely understand why LaJoy Plans came so highly recommended! They have been one of the best consultant experiences I've ever had and it's fully because of the care that Melva took. I was in the initial stages of planning my organization's annual retreat, and I was nervous! This would be the first time our team was all together in one space since 2019. As a Black women leader, I felt the pressure to produce a well-planned, successful retreat for our team. I felt seen by Melva. Not only did she share her wisdom as another Black woman leader but she uplifted me and my committee as she advised us and asked the critical questions to help us narrow our focus. Because of Melva's support, our team developed a retreat that intentionally centered connectedness and joy as we learned with and from each other.
Our teammates remarked that this was the best retreat we've ever had and that they felt cared for throughout. One shared that Melva was "really great about using her expertise to guide us to solutions that would be best for our team versus just telling us what we should do." I'm grateful to have had the support of LaJoy Plans. I hope to keep in touch with Melva and her team ,and I'm already subscribed to Mondays With Melva! I'm truly grateful for such a wonderful experience!”
- Meladee L. Evans,
Vice President, People & Operations | Catalyst:Ed
“Thank you so much Melva. It was an absolute pleasure to be able to work with you again. The event was a resounding success in large part to because of the professionalism, preparation, and the quick thinking of your team. THANK YOU AGAIN, Melva! You and your team put your heart into each project and it shows.”
- Manny Cruz,
Latinos for Education
“Melva is one of the best event planners I have ever worked with. She recently planned and designed a major event for us. Her creative vision and professionalism is unmatched. She has a great attention to detail and takes a collaborative approach to planning and design which I truly appreciated. Your guests are sure to have a great experience with Melva planning your event. Lastly, she has a great personality and you can tell she’s very passionate about the work she does. I would highly recommend Melva for your upcoming events.”
- Maude Okhra Hunter,
CEO, Black Beauty Roster
“The work of LaJoy Plans was phenomenal. The overall production was seamless and the true experience of the team shined. The stage and backdrop was designed wonderfully with the organization in mind. The staging set an intimate, yet professional atmosphere. The entire production was professionally done...honestly more than what I could have imagined. The tiniest of aspects were intricately thought through and made important. The production team set up overnight and then worked straight through the event. They were all so friendly and ready to answer any questions with a smile on their faces. Throughout the event, there were a few agenda timing changes to make and Melva and her team were able to make those changes on the fly with no issues. Communication from beginning to end was on point and the whole team was highly accessible. The event came together so well and our attendees had nothing but great things to say!
Morganne and Samentha were very friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to myself, our attendees, and other staff. They were incredibly helpful and made sure I had everything I needed. Most of the time they thought of things I needed before I asked!
I highly recommend LaJoy Plans for any and every event!”
- Rahnesia Best, MBA, BSED
Lead Consultant, English Hudson
“Our Second Chance Experience, after a two-year hiatus from events, was only possible because of the magnificent Melva and her wonderful team at LaJoy Plans. Melva’s last name is so fitting as she was an absolute joy to work with. Every single interaction with Melva was always positive and uplifting- I would get off our biweekly zoom meetings knowing that the event was going to be absolutely magical because of Melva’s creativity, attention to detail, and event expertise. Melva led with such professionalism, poise, and efficiency. She understood our vision and our guests and made the evening very special for all involved. Melva made sure that the event reflected and celebrated our Participants, mission and commitment to justice reform.
Always on top of communication and correspondences, and forever responsive, all of our event vendors instantly connected and adored Melva just as much as we did! Melva helped us surpass our target goal for the event, and came in under budget in terms of expenses. A heartfelt THANK YOU to Melva, Morganne and the LaJoy team for your terrific work. We are already looking forward to working with you again!”
— Elizabeth Frederick,
CEO, Avenues for Justice
Our first gala experience would not have been possible without Melva’s dedication, positive attitude, and boundless energy. She embodied the utmost professionalism in managing the event logistics, operations, and budget while also forming personal connections with her clients. We could not have executed such a successful event hosting 300+ guests at the Andrew Mellon Auditorium without her proactive recommendations, expert guidance, and clear and transparent communication. Melva and her team elevated our event with creative flare, extreme attention to every last detail, and masterful knowledge of what it takes to turn a vision into a reality.
— Emily Slater,
Deputy Director, The Bretton Woods Committee
what listeners say
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"The session with Melva was amazing. " "She was thought provoking and insightful.""I was inspired by Melva’s session."
- Data from attendee surveys regarding Melva’s Talk, (We)Con 2021 Educational Conference
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“Thank you for creating this opportunity for the good of people, the community, and the world. You have set the bar for others to create opportunities for us to have a seat at the table, and for that I'm grateful for you.”
- A.H.Business Owner
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“I have truly enjoyed every single interaction and connection with you. You have so much to give and I know everyone who tuned in today walked away feeling heard and inspired.”
- Andrea M/. Pagano-Reyes,
Vice President of Development, RAINN -
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“I found your perspective introspective and uplifting. The attendees loved your presentation we have received absolutely glowing feedback from them.”
- Jennifer Charles,
Event Specialist -
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“Your humility towards others is ministering to those people whom you plan for, whether you know it or not. I felt your Spirit throughout the entire segment. I know God’s Spirit through others when I feel it.“
- Post Women Who Rock Success Podcast
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“I'm loving your series. Your videos and wisdom are hitting home for me!”
- Subscriber to Melva’s Masterclass
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“WOW, I love it. Thank you for sharing your story. I am writing down my fears now. Also, I love this line from your email ‘My intention is simple: I want people to live in their truth.' Keep going, Woman King.”
- “Mondays with Melva” Subscriber
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“THIS IS BEAUTIFUL. So well written, spoken and beyond thoughtful.YOU ARE AMAZING!”
- “Mondays with Melva” Series Subscriber
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“That was truly so special and very timely. We are already receiving positive responses from people. One said it was just what he needed this week; another asked me to put you on retainer! These are not surprising but wonderful to hear. I am so grateful that your light and your stories touched our community so deeply.”
— Client
