Marquita’s love for event planning was sparked when she began co-creating large scale fashion shows during college. The experience and confidence she gained led to her planning and executing her own successful show. Seeing the looks she customized coming down the runway was worth all the research, organizing, and stress. As a result, Marquita Rugless founded R.O.C. Events. What began as a dream quickly became a passion that has led to over eleven years in event planning.
Marquita’s artistry is set apart by her signature technique and specialty in creative balloon design. The ability to craft vibrant looks, not only for her venue but for any space or occasion, has made R.O.C. Events highly sought after in the industry. Her experience, professionalism, eye for design, and love of transforming simple spaces into statement-making events are definitely inspired and inspiring. But Marquita not only designs event spaces; she offers much more. From lawn displays to personalized gifts for special moments, she has developed a roster of services suitable for nearly any occasion.
As a wife and mother of twin toddlers, Marquita has left nothing undone in reaching for her dreams and living a full life. Her love for travel to tropical places, and homebody routines like online shopping and binge-watching cop and hospital dramas, leave her refreshed and open to receive the inspiration she needs. She explains, “I can find inspiration anywhere! I can look at a plate of food and be inspired by the colors. My mind works like that and I’m grateful for that skill.”
Interview Questions
- What is the most rewarding thing about being a business owner?
-For me, it’s the freedom of choices. Being able to create my own destiny is what attracted me to entrepreneurship. I have never been a 9 to 5 girl! I was miserable in those positions. Once I became a mother, I knew I made the right choice. I am able to be available for whatever needs arise with my daughters. For that, I am grateful.
2. What are some lessons you learned while developing your business?
*School is NEVER out for the pro! You must always be teachable and coachable in order to succeed in any form of entrepreneurship. I am willing to invest in myself to get the knowledge required to run my business.
*The importance of collaboration. Having a network has brought so much to me. Support, exposure, education, financial gain, etc. They even give me confidence when I can’t find it on my own! My network is all about seeing each other WIN.
*Showing up for your business is the key to success. People can’t book you or even see what you offer if you aren’t visible. You must have your elevator pitch ready to use always and have physical or digital (QR code) business cards on you. People will treat your business how you treat it.
3. What can we look forward to with R.O.C Events LLC?
-So much!! We have expanded into education and will be hosting a 3 day workshop (8/25/23-8/27/23) to teach event professionals the art of transforming a venue into a dream event. This event is close to my heart because it’s two things I love, Event Design and Teaching! For more information and to grab a ticket, visit www.WomenWhoPower.com.
The balance she has created in her life provides the motivation she needs to supply her community with designs they will love forever. But she doesn’t believe that the success she has found is unique to her. Instead, she believes that others in the industry can have the same. Her advice: Just don’t stop. The next step could be your win. If you would like to learn more, you can visit her website or social media platforms.
IG & TikTok: @rocevents
FB: therocevents
