By Tammy Reese | Saturday, November 25, 2023 | 10:50 AM ET
Event producer Denise A Grant has over 12 years of experience in the industry, she has successfully organized weddings and social events while also making a name for herself as a go-to producer for celebrity and corporate settings. Her impressive client list includes cast members of popular shows like “Love & Hip Hop” and “Black Ink Crew,” as well as anchors from “Pix11 Morning News” and “Hot97/WBLS” but most recently you may have seen her designs at the “Food Networks New York City Wine & Food Festival.”
What sets Denise apart is her unique background as a self-taught professional baker turned wedding/event designer. This diverse skill set allows her to bring a fresh perspective to every event she plans, with unparalleled attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to listening to her clients’ needs.
Whether it’s creating a dream wedding or orchestrating a high-profile corporate affair, Denise’s expertise shines through in every aspect of her work. From conceptualization to execution, she seamlessly blends creativity with meticulous planning, ensuring that each event is truly unforgettable.
With Denise A Grant at the helm, you can trust that your special occasion will be flawlessly executed and exceed all expectations.
Denise A Grant is the Owner of Hactac Events by Denise A Grant LLC.
When you first started your career, what did you set out to be your vision and purpose? How has it changed or remained the same?
Denise: The original purpose of me doing all of this was to make my son’s 1st birthday cake. I was originally just the cake baker and then 5 years ago I did an event where they needed decorating help, I jumped right in and loved it. That is when HACTAC events as it is now began. We are now a full-service floral design and decor. We also offer planning and coordination services. We have become what we say is the “one-stop shop” for all your event needs.
How do you approach the process of understanding and bringing to life your clients’ visions for their weddings and events?
Denise: That process happens in our meetings. One of the things we are known for is the details. Not the big ones but the small ones that are so significant but the client thinks we are not listening to them. Our meetings and conversations help us identify those moments that truly make all our events extra special.
As a self-taught professional, how have you continuously grown in your craft and technique over the years?
Denise: We grow through learning. Yes, I am self-taught but I do take courses from other professionals doing things I would like to see my business doing and also I take courses for large companies. Learn their practices. There are a lot of small business incubators from companies like Chase and Verizon. I take advantage of as many of them as I can.
Can you share an example of a particularly challenging wedding or event that you successfully designed and executed?
Denise: I can’t say the name of the celebrity client but I had a celebrity event where the planner was not the nicest to deal with. It makes it very challenging for you to design and produce under certain unfavorable conditions. We don’t all have to be friends, but there should always be a matter of respect between us. Regardless of the conditions, I was able to produce the event successfully with my amazing team behind me. This event was definitely one I used as a learning tool to produce in conditions that are not favorable. We have to be able to do so if we are to be successful as entrepreneurs.
What sets you apart from other wedding/event designers in terms of creating a unique and memorable experience for your clients?
Denise: What sets me apart is again our attention to detail but also our willingness to be transparent. I will let you know how I’m spending your money and why. Our clients appreciate knowing what’s happening in the process and it builds so much trust between us.
How do you stay updated with the latest trends and innovations in the wedding and event industry?
Denise: We follow leaders in our industry, both weddings and social. We also keep up with our courses and also take advantage of our networking events. We connect with our network to see what we are all doing and even how we can do it together.
What do you enjoy most about your career?
Denise: I enjoy that it’s my career…lol. I get to create this amazing business my way and it has enriched both my professional and my personal life. I get to show my son that with hard work, anything he wants can be done.
How can we keep up to date on social media?
Denise: Please follow us on Instagram we are @hactacevents
About Tammy Reese
Owner of Visionary Minds Public Relations and Media, Tammy Reese is an award-winning writer and journalist best known for landing major interviews with Angela Bassett, Sharon Stone, Sigourney Weaver, Laurence Fishburne, Geena Davis, Billy Porter, Morris Chestnut, Nelly, Mona Scott Young, Giancarlo Esposito, Luke Evans, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Jennifer Connelly, Joseph Sikora, Meagan Good, Leon, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Phylicia Rashad, Omar Epps, Courtney Kemp, Vivica A Fox, Ryan Coogler, and so many more.
She is a proud member of ForbesBLK as well as New York Women in Film and Television.
