Meet Ibia Lisa Owens | CEO/ Founder of Mosaic Engagements

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ibia Lisa Owens and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ibia Lisa, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my own business, Mosaic Events, was greatly influenced by a fundamental shift in my life. As an empty nester, I felt a void that needed to be filled, and I yearned to walk in my purpose. After spending over two decades as the go-to person for organizing and executing meaningful and impactful events – from birthday parties to weddings and corporate-driven events – I realized that what was initially just a hobby could actually be turned into a viable business venture.

When I was asked to drive a global event that not only raised funds for a nonprofit but also recognized phenomenal women making changes within the community, I felt truly alive and invigorated. It was in that moment that I recognized the profound impact events can have, not just on the attendees but also on the broader community. This experience solidified my belief that I had something unique to offer, and it was time to channel my passion and expertise into a full-fledged business.

With the guidance of my coach, Dr. Cheryl Polote Williamson, I identified that the value I brought to the table was my ability to seamlessly bring together various components and people to create meaningful experiences. The name ‘Mosaic Events’ reflects the essence of my business model – just as a mosaic is an art form that brings together various pieces to create a harmonious and beautiful whole, my company aims to bring together diverse elements of an event to ensure its success.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
In my work, I feel genuinely grateful and honored to have the opportunity to merge my passion for creating transformative experiences with my deep commitment to serving the community. As the founder and CEO of my event management company, one of the most rewarding challenges was identifying the right clientele—those whose values align with our mission of making a meaningful difference in the community. It fills me with joy to continuously succeed in this aspect.

I am just an everyday woman who decided to pursue her dreams with a firm commitment to elevating others. Our portfolio covers a broad range of events, especially those that foster community enhancement and empowerment. We have had the privilege of organizing events for respected organizations such as Girls Inc., KZamore Enterprises, and Soul Reborn Inc., as well as taking on high-profile projects like the Cheryl Magazine Annual Awards and Fundraiser and international C-Suite retreats. These events are not only financially successful but also crucial in raising awareness and fostering unity within the community.

We are particularly committed to events that support minority entrepreneurs, providing platforms that enhance their visibility and networking opportunities. A notable example is our collaboration with Soul Reborn and Rolling Out Magazine for the Sisters with Superpowers event in Dallas, which celebrated and empowered women of color achieving excellence in various fields.

As we look to the future, our aspiration is to broaden our reach geographically and across different market segments while continuing to redefine the integration of stunning aesthetics with meaningful narratives. Each event is crafted not merely as an occasion but as a memorable experience that profoundly resonates with participants. Guided by the philosophy that ‘every event is an opportunity to create something extraordinary’, we aim to produce events that leave a lasting impact.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting, I’d be thrilled to provide a week-long tour of Dallas, filled with great food, meaningful cultural experiences, and some indulgent pampering. Here’s the itinerary I’d create to ensure they have an unforgettable time.

Day 1: Welcome to Dallas
We’d start with a hearty breakfast at Maple Leaf Diner, a cozy spot known for its unique blend of Canadian and American dishes. Afterwards, I’d take them on a Soul of DFW Tour. This tour combines history, culture, and soul food, offering a deep dive into the African American landmarks of the city while enjoying savory bites along the way.

Day 2: Arts and Culture
We’d spend the day at the Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center, exploring their world-class collections. Lunch would be at Sassetta, known for its stylish Italian-inspired dishes. For a light evening activity, we’d do a walking tour of the Bishop Arts District, finishing with dinner at Boulevardier, a charming French bistro.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures
Given Dallas’ beautiful green spaces, we’d venture to the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve for a morning hike, followed by a picnic with local treats from Eatzi’s Market & Bakery. I’d keep the evening local and low-key, perhaps catching a movie at the Texas Theatre, a historic spot with a lot of character.

Day 4: Shop and Pamper
As a self-professed girlie girl, it’s essential to dedicate a day for shopping and pampering. We’d start with shopping at the Bishop Arts District for some unique finds. For lunch, we’d enjoy some Southern comfort food at Hattie’s. The afternoon would be spent at Koffee Day Spa, where we’d indulge in some facials and massages. Dinner would be something light and fresh at HG Sply Co., perfectly concluding our relaxing day.

Day 5: A Taste of Texas
We wouldn’t miss the chance to enjoy genuine Texas BBQ, so lunch would be at Pecan Lodge, one of the best in the city. We’d then visit the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum for a dose of historical insights. As for the evening, a visit to a local brewery, like Deep Ellum Brewing Company, would offer a taste of Dallas’ vibrant craft beer scene.

Day 6: Sporting Fun and Music
Assuming it’s the season, catching a Dallas Cowboys or Mavericks game would provide an exciting display of local sports culture. We’d follow this with a live music night at The Rustic to enjoy some local bands.

Day 7: Farewell Brunch and Relaxation
On their last day, I’d take my friend for a leisurely brunch at Bread Winners Café, known for its incredible brunch menu. We’d take a relaxed stroll through Klyde Warren Park, maybe even catching a food truck or two for some snacks. In the evening, a quiet farewell dinner at Lucia, an intimate Italian spot in Bishop Arts, would be a tasteful wrap-up to an eventful week.

In my view, these activities combine the best of Dallas cuisine, culture, and relaxation, offering a spectrum of experiences that highlight why I love calling this city my home.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Reflecting on the myriad influences that have shaped my journey as an event manager, I am immensely grateful for the diverse sources of inspiration that enrich both my approach to business and the ethos of my event management company, Mosaic Events.

At the core of my values lies my spiritual faith, which serves as a steadfast guiding light in both my personal and professional life. It instills in me the power of visualization—’see it before you can see it’—a mantra about manifesting the unseen into tangible reality. This principle is especially poignant in event planning, where initial concepts are meticulously transformed into vibrant, memorable experiences.

I am also deeply inspired by my two sisters. Growing up in Detroit presented its challenges, but these hardships only served to strengthen our bond and fortify our resolve. Observing our collective journey from humble beginnings to achieving success in fields we are genuinely passionate about continually drives me to surmount obstacles and strive for excellence.

The unique visions of my clients also greatly inspire my creativity, pushing me to transcend limitations and ensure each event crafted by Mosaic Events is distinctly memorable. Moreover, the unwavering dedication, creativity, and resilience of my team are daily sources of inspiration. Their commitment underscores the transformative power of collective success and highlights the joy found in our shared achievements.

In summary, the rich tapestry of my inspirations—from faith and family to clients, and my team—not only propels me forward but significantly enhances the services we provide at Mosaic Events. With a sincere appreciation for these various influences, I am continually motivated to evolve, learn, and imprint a legacy of excellence on the event management industry.

Website: https://www.mosaicengagements.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mosaicengagementsllc/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eventswithexcellence

Image Credits
Sottu Photography