Melva LaJoy Legrand, founder of LaJoy Creative. (Credit: Courtesy of LaJoy Creative)
She’ll Plan a Good Time – For a Good Cause
Melva LaJoy Legrand’s business coordinates events for organizations whose work is rooted in social justice, equity, climate change mitigation and education access.
Almost 20 years ago, Melva LaJoy Legrand launched her first events company, LaJoy Event Design. The Washington, D.C.-based entrepreneur spent years planning parties and more for mission-driven organizations, coordinating upwards of 20 events per year at her busiest. But when Covid first began to spread in 2020, Legrand’s company took a huge hit. Despite losing 98% of her business, she remained undeterred, and worked to build the firm back up. And that she did, doubling her yearly revenue each year for the past 3 years and expanding to produce events in 42 states. Legrand, who recently rebranded her business as LaJoy Creative, takes pride in her ability to shift, adapt and pivot as needed – telling us that doing so has helped her become a more resilient leader.
Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.
Tell us about your biggest success so far.
Using my expertise to contribute to conversations around the gender pay gap and blending profit with purpose. Winning coveted awards such as the 2025 Inc. Female Founders 500, SUCCESS Magazine’s Women of Influence 2024, and landing speaking opportunities with IMEX America, IMEX Frankfurt, and four cities of the BizBash Connect Conference.
What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?
Whether it’s facing a global pandemic, navigating staff changes, or the loss of clients, I always embrace the pivot. I try to lead with empathy, and find joy in my personal and professional life.
Have you experienced any significant personal situations that affected your business decisions?
The pandemic was a huge challenge for us. At the time, I was also the caretaker for my ailing father, Melvin, who passed in 2021. And, I have had to deal with my own health conditions in recent years. But I’ve always found a way to come out on the other side.
What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs?
I actually started a YouTube leadership series, “Mondays with Melva,” to share some of the lessons I’ve learned while running my own business. I’m hopeful that this series will help other entrepreneurs navigate imposter syndrome, ensure their work is done with heart and empathy, and learn to understand the difference between “FOMO” (fear of missing out) and leadership rest.
How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?
My love for my late father, Melvin, is the driving force behind getting through my darkest days. The love he gave me allows me to remain committed to my mission and gives me the confidence to know I can do anything.
What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?
“Unstoppable” by Koryn Hawthrone.
Who is your most important role model?
I have two. Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman to be elected to congress in 1968, and my mother, Joyce Jones. They have both shaped the way I embrace and navigate life as a dark-skinned Black woman. ◾
Instagram: @LaJoyCreative
LinkedIn: @LaJoyCreative
YouTube: @LaJoyCreative
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