Welcome to our Local Business Spotlight series, designed to give you a behind-the-scenes sneak peek at the journeys that went into creating some of your favorite local brands.

Today's guests are Akilah Anders and Natasha Canada from Sister Sister Picnics, a luxury picnic and micro event planning business in Des Moines, Iowa.

Our favorite piece of advice they shared: "Don't compare yourself to others in the same industry." We are total advocates for this at Love Local. Everyone brings a unique perspective to their business and that's so needed no matter what industry you're in. If you're curious about starting a luxury picnics or micro event planning business, learn a little more from Akilah & Natasha and connect with them using the links below!

1. What do you own and why did you start this business?

We own a luxury picnic and micro event company. We started Sister Sister as a response to COVID after seeing so many celebrations having to be cancelled. We wanted to bring something new and unique to Iowa! Both of us love decorating for family events so it just seemed natural to finally pursue it as a career.

2. What is an early win you had that made you feel like you were on the right path?

Seeing the public's response when we launched! We were so nervous that people wouldn't understand or enjoy our concept but the community embraced us quickly!

3. What's one of the biggest challenges you’ve had?

Our biggest challenge has definitely been learning to say no and learning to take time for ourselves. There have been many weeks where we didn't have a single day off or worked 16 hours days. We are starting to find that work-life balance!

4. What are three pieces of advice you’d give to aspiring local business owners in your industry?

1) Don't compare yourself to others in the same industry. It's easy to look at what everyone else is doing and get discouraged but you have to remember that you bring something unique to the industry, as do they! There is room for everyone at the table!

2) Stay organized. We cannot stress this enough. Keep a planner. Sort and organize your inventory. Create a daily checklist and keep yourself accountable. It will make your events run much smoother!

3) Don't forget to take time for yourself. Take those days off, go on vacations, and take mental health days when you need it! We all get overwhelmed sometimes but self care is so important to the success of your business. You cannot pour from an empty glass!