Meet Lauren Hollingsworth | Founder & Creative Director of Incorporate Joi

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lauren Hollingsworth and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lauren, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I was scared. Honestly, I wasn’t sure if I was ready, but deep down I knew I wanted to create something of my own. My grandma loved planning events, and growing up, I watched her bring people together with so much joy and intention. She was a huge part of my life, so in a way, planning has always been in me.

I actually started with smaller events before stepping into weddings. Over time, I realized how much I loved creating meaningful experiences for people and being part of their most special moments. Even though the transition felt intimidating, my passion for curating celebrations that feel personal and unforgettable pushed me to take the leap and grow Incorporate Joi into what it is today.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Incorporate Joi is a luxury wedding and event planning company rooted in connection, intention, and heart. My approach has always been about creating celebrations that feel deeply personal while delivering an elevated experience that my clients and their guests will never forget.

What sets me apart is the way I truly get to know my clients. I’m not just planning a wedding or an event, I’m curating an experience that reflects their love story, their personalities, and their vision. My goal is to make the process feel peaceful and seamless while producing something that’s stunning and memorable.

This journey wasn’t easy. When I first started, I planned smaller events before moving into weddings. I was scared to take that next step, but my love for creating meaningful moments pushed me forward. There were plenty of challenges along the way: figuring out how to grow my business, how to stand out in a competitive industry, and how to trust myself even when things felt uncertain.

One of my proudest moments has been watching my vision evolve into something that’s not just a business, but a brand that represents excellence and care. Every event is a chance to honor my clients’ milestones while carrying forward my grandmother’s legacy.

The biggest lessons I’ve learned are to stay true to who you are, to lead with heart, and to understand that growth doesn’t happen in your comfort zone. I want the world to know that Incorporate Joi isn’t just about beautiful events, it’s about crafting experiences that feel authentic, unforgettable, and full of joy.

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.
We have to eat. I’m definitely a girl who loves good food! I’d start the week with brunch at Sadelle’s because it’s such a vibe and the perfect way to ease into the day. For dinner, some of my go-to spots are Haywire for incredible southern-inspired dishes, Shug’s for a fun, laid-back vibe, and Ten Sushi for fresh, beautiful rolls.

Coffee is a must, so we’d definitely stop by Soirée Coffee Bar, their lattes and atmosphere are unmatched.
For drinks, I love spots with a view. We’d hop around to a few outdoor bars downtown to take in the Dallas skyline and enjoy a relaxed evening.

Since I don’t go out a lot, when I do, I love places with live music. We’d find a cozy spot with an acoustic set or a rooftop with a band playing to end the night on the perfect note.

It would be the ultimate mix of good food, beautiful views, and a little live music, all the things that make Dallas such a fun and vibrant city to experience.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have to give credit to my business mentor and coach, Akeshi Akinseye. She is truly an expert at her craft, but what makes her so special goes beyond her talent. She genuinely cares, she teaches, she inspires, and she leads with such a humble heart. Over the years, she’s been such a valuable part of my growth, not just as a planner, but as a businesswoman.

Akeshi is hands down one of the top wedding planners in the game, but to me, she’s also a gem of a person. I’m so grateful to have her on this journey with me and to learn from someone who embodies both excellence and grace in this industry.

Website: https://www.incorporatejoi.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/107133375/

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

Image Credits
Lavishlylux Studios
Zelly Photography
Lola Mango Photo + Film
Ashley’s Portrait Company