A Grand Finale: Day 3 of MunaLuchi’s 10th Annual Coterie Retreat Concludes with an Exquisite Awards Gala in St. Thomas
Our 10th-annual Coterie Retreat in St. Thomas USVI was an incredible celebration culminating in a stunning Awards Gala at The Westin | Captured by Trene’ Forbes Photography | Cover Photo by Xiaoqi Li Photography
The last day of our 10th-annual Coterie Retreat in St. Thomas USVI was an incredible celebration of education, connection, and culture, culminating in a stunning Awards Gala at The Westin’s Harborview Ballroom.
Morning general sessions included an inspiring panel led by Kawania Howerton Wooten with Bron Hansboro (The Flower Guy Bron) and Akeshi Akinseye (Kesh Events) on how to expand revenue opportunities beyond your current services.
An inspiring presentation by Dr. Darnyelle Jervey Harmon of Incredible One Enterprises on creating a “Mindset for Millions” followed before lunch where attendees enjoyed an off-site dining experience in downtown Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas at the Indigo Restaurant.
In the evening, guests reconvened at the Harborview Ballroom for cocktail hour and an extravagant black-tie awards gala recognizing the dedication, creativity, and innovation of wedding professionals and organizations making an impact in the multicultural market.
Keep scrolling to relive all the details from our third and final day of this year’s milestone retreat!
Event: Coterie Retreat 2024
Dates: December 9-12th, 2024
Host island: St. Thomas U.S. Virgin Islands
Photographers: Xiaoqi Li Photography, Trene’ Forbes Photography, & Charity Hope Photography
Karli Harvey Raymond Opens Day 3 of Coterie Retreat 2024 | Captured by Trene’ Forbes Photography
**The 10th annual Coterie Retreat is hosted by Munaluchi Bride (@munaluchibride) in partnership with the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism (@visitusvi)**
Coterie Retreat 2024 – Day 3 opening remarks from Karli Harvey Raymond | Captured by Trene’ Forbes Photography
Panel: How to Extend your Revenue Opportunities beyond your Current Services
Moderator Kawania Howerton Wooten led the conversation on expanding revenue opportunities with incredible guests Bron Hansboro of The Flower Guy Bron and Akeshi Akinseye from Kesh Events, who emphasized building strong foundations, identifying core values, and the importance of partnerships.
(Left to right): Bron Hansboro of The Flower Guy Bron, moderator Kawania Howerton Wooten, and Akeshi Akinseye of Kesh Events | Captured by Trene’ Forbes Photography
A passionate educator, entrepreneur, and floral designer, Bron Honsboro shared how he grew his business with resources at hand and how collaborations with caterers and even branching out into luxury jewelry and furs have expanded his revenue streams.
“Outside of being The Flower Guy Bron, I’m a businessman,” he explained. “In that appreciation, I’m not going to be pigeonholed into flowers.”
To expand revenue, he further acknowledged the need to “build a pipeline of consistency in a tried and tested practice [first] so you can build on that foundation.” In addition to his floral and design company, he provides lighting and rentals through his company, The Event House, and next-day flowers and gifts via Brookland Park Flowers and Gifts.
The Flower Guy Bron, Bron Hansboro | Captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography
Globally renowned luxury event planner Akeshi Akinseye of Kesh Events also shared wisdom on how to monetize your expertise, the importance of investing in education, and how to create meaningful, memorable experiences for clients.
She further stressed how integral it is to create meaningful partnerships. “Collaboration works if you nurture first,” she shared. “Your first outreach should never be an ask.” Establishing a solid team is equally important. “Hire people so you can work on your business, not in your business.”
Akeshi Akinseye of Kesh Events | Captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography
Getting featured in print and online is also a great way to build credibility. A surprising revelation for the audience was when Akeshi revealed she’d never hired PR before. Her explanation: “If you show up as the expert you claim you are, people will take notice.”
After establishing that trust and expertise, the opportunities to further monetize and grow will follow! The key takeaway? Collaboration is everything – nurturing relationships first leads to lasting success.
Connect with Kawania @kawaniawooten, Bron @theflowerguybron, and Akeshi @keshevents on Instagram.
(Left to right): Bron Hansboro of The Flower Guy Bron, Akeshi Akinseye of Kesh Events, and moderator Kawania Howerton Wooten | Captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography
Speaker: Dr. Darnyelle Jervey Harmon – Mindset for Millions
Your money mindset hinges on the way you see God, yourself, and money.
– Darnyelle Jervey-Harmon (CEO of Incredible One Enterprises)
Featured speaker, Darnyelle Jervey-Harmon, at Coterie Retreat 2024 | Captured by Trene’ Forbes Photography
Darnyelle Jervey-Harmon, CEO of Incredible One Enterprises, captivated audiences with her transformative “Mindset for Millions” presentation, sharing how she rebuilt her life from bankruptcy to a $12 million empire. With wisdom and energy, she declared, “Millions are your birthright,” challenging attendees to reframe their views on money, faith, and abundance.
Darnyelle Jervey-Harmon presenting on “Mindset for Millions” at Coterie Retreat 2024 | Captured by Trene’ Forbes Photography
Her empowering message emphasized gratitude, releasing fear, and stepping into rooms that stretch your potential. Darnyelle reminded us that the only limits are the ones we impose on ourselves, urging everyone to embrace their vision and take bold steps toward achieving their next level.
Connect with Darnyelle @darnyellejerveyharmon of @teamincredibleone on Instagram.
Captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography
Coterie Marketplace
Throughout the day, attendees explored the Coterie Marketplace, connecting with representatives from tourist boards, resorts, and hotels. This dynamic space offered vendors the chance to dive deep into the logistics of hosting destination weddings and events in the Caribbean. Attendees exchanged insights, asked questions, and built valuable relationships to elevate their offerings.
Featured Destinations & Hotels:
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Spice Island Beach Resort
The Islands of the Bahamas
Nassau & Paradise Island
Pigeon Point
The Palm Terrace
Pure Grenada
St. Kitts
British Virgin Islands
Nassau & Paradise Island, The Bahamas – Coterie Marketplace | Captured by Trene’ Forbes Photography
(Below): Photos by Xiaoqi Li Photography
St. Kitts – Coterie Marketplace | Captured by Trene’ Forbes Photography
Dine-around Lunch at Indigo
Lunch at Indigo Restaurant in downtown St. Thomas was a highlight of the Coterie Retreat! The stunning views paired with delicious food made for the perfect setting to connect and unwind with fellow industry professionals.
(Photos in the following section captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography)
Views from Indigo Restaurant…
Captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography
Moments of relaxation, inspiration, and fun…
Below Photos captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography
Headshot Cafe
(Photos in this section captured by Trene Forbes Photography)
Cocktail Hour
St. Thomas Enchantment Dancers – USVI Festivals | Captured by Trene’ Forbes Photography
Attendees mixed and mingled during our pre-awards gala cocktail hour, taking advantage of photo-op moments and showing off their gorgeous gowns and sleek suits in anticipation of the gala to come.
(Photos in this section captured by Charity Hope Photography)
Awards Gala
Our 10th annual Coterie Retreat Awards Gala was nothing short of magical! From the stunning décor that set the stage for an unforgettable evening to the joy and laughter that filled the room, every detail was absolute perfection.
Coterie Retreat 2024 Gala Decor | Captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography
Decked out in gorgeous Black-tie attire, guests entered The Westin’s Harborview Ballroom in awe. Completely transformed by the Tiffany Chalk Events team with designs by Larger Than Life Events, romantic candles glowed on each table, illuminating golden place settings and elegant floral centerpieces.
(Above): Coterie Retreat 2024 Gala Menu | Photos in this gallery captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography
Culinary delights…
(Above): Photos in this gallery captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography
Muna Fashion:
(Photos in this section captured by Trene’ Forbes Photography)
(Below photos were captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography)
Awards Ceremony
We celebrated the brilliance, dedication, and passion of some extraordinary individuals and organizations during our awards ceremony. These honorees embody the heart of our community, inspiring us all with their achievements and impact.
Captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography
Setting the stage for greatness…
(The above photo gallery was captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography)
Rising Star Award: Adeola Fowodu of Celebrations by Adeola
(Above): Adeola Fowodu of Celebrations by Adeola receives this year’s Rising Star Award! | Captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography
Prosperity Award: Natasha Stovall-Rolle of Too Blessed To Be Stressed Catering and The Grand Ballroom LLC
(Above): Natasha Stovall-Rolle of Too Blessed To Be Stressed Catering and The Grand Ballroom LLC | Captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography
Mentor of the Year Award: Akeshi Akinseye of Kesh Events
Collaborator of the Year Award: Kal Noel of Luxor Wedding Films and Linda McQueen of Linda McQueen Photography
Collaborator of the Year Award goes to husband-wife team Kal Noel of Luxor Wedding Films and Linda McQueen of Linda McQueen Photography | Captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography
Kal Noel of Luxor Wedding Films and Linda McQueen of Linda McQueen Photography | Captured by Trene’ Forbes Photography
Inclusive Excellence in Hospitality Award: Sandals Resorts
Inclusive Excellence in Hospitality Award: Sandals Resorts
The Inclusive Excellence in Hospitality Award goes to Sandals Resorts! | Photo by Trene’ Forbes Photography
Impact Award: Ogo Nwobu Nnebe of Blissful Gardens (Sharing joy with over 1,000 blissful bouquets to those in need).
(Above): Ogo Nwobu Nnebe of Blissful Gardens receives this year’s Impact Award! | Captured by Xiaoqi Li Photography
Congratulations to all of our incredible award recipients! Your hard work and dedication continue to elevate and inspire the entire multicultural wedding and event industry. Here’s to even greater heights in the years to come!
Our Coterie Retreat 2024 award recipients with Jackie and Chike Nwobu | Captured by Trene’ Forbes Photography
Time to celebrate (with a surprise performance by TH3RD)!
Finer Touch Entertainment kept the energy going!
Photos in this gallery captured by Trene’ Forbes Photography
Looking for more Coterie Retreat 2024 recaps?
Click here.
Vendors:
Planner: Tiffany Chalk Events
The 10th annual Coterie Retreat is hosted by Munaluchi Bride in partnership with the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism
Host Hotel: The Westin at Frenchman’s Reef St. Thomas
Glam Team:
Makeup: Felicia Graham Beauty
Hair: Golda Tagoe of Gold Karatz Beauty and Glamour by Shaniqua
Scentscaping: Eden Scents
Photographers:
Welcome Party:
Planner: Tiffany Chalk Events
Mocko Jumbies: Eccentric Mocko Jumbies
Dancers: Enchantment Dancers and Band | USVI Festivals
Tuesday Luncheon:
Photos: Xiaoqi Li Photography
Planning: Tiffany Chalk Events
Stationery: Modern Lux Laser Custom Acrylic Designs
Sponsor: Wedding Pro
Rentals: Island Bliss Weddings
White Party:
Hosted at the Governor’s Mansion in partnership with the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism
DJ: Dj G$Money and DJ: Finer Touch Entertainment
Surprise Performance: Pressure Busspipe
Dancers: Enchantment Dancers and Band | USVI Festivals
Mocko Jumbies: Eccentric Mocko Jumbies
Catering: Yum VI Catering
Florals and rentals: Beyond Borders VI
Lighting: Westline Pro
Awards Gala:
Planning/Production: Tiffany Chalk Events
Design: Larger Than Life Events
Surprise Performance: TH3RD
Florals: East End Florals
Rentals: Beyond Borders VI
