'Collaboration and networking are crucial in our industry, and it’s something I take pride in.'

#MeetHer - Feyikemi Kukoyi is a seasoned boutique event planner with almost two decades of experience in the industry and the CEO of FTK Konnect.

Feyikemi Kukoyi has a background in business technology administration. FTK brings a unique skill set to the table that sets her and her team apart from others in the field. Her years of experience, coupled with her business acumen, allow her to exceed her clients' expectations and deliver exceptional results.

In addition to her event planning prowess, FTK is renowned for creating the annual luxury romantic experience, The Bond With Me 007 Series. This distinctive event showcases her creativity and attention to detail, blurring the lines between fantasy and reality to bring her clients' dreams to life. In 2017, FTK~Konnect Events was honored with the State of Maryland and Governor's Citation awards. This is a testament to her passion and dedication to what she does through educating and empowering others.

What inspired you to bring 'Bond with Me 007' to Lagos, Nigeria for its maiden edition?

Lagos is the best canvas for such an event like this with its vibrant energy and dynamic spirit, serving as the quintessential canvas for an event of this magnitude.

Bringing Bond With Me 007 to Nigeria has always been a dream. I have always desired to create a unique experience for singles seeking love, couples celebrating their relationships, and those already married in Nigeria to spotlight and cherish their love stories.

I want Nigerians to experience a Valentine's Day celebration unlike any other as we change the narrative of the same ol’ same ol’ Valentine's Day event and introduce them to the James Bond 007 style that hasn't been explored in this region before.

The intent is not merely to host an event but to weave an immersive experience that captures the essence of romance, elegance, and adventure, creating lasting memories for all the guests or attendees.

What unique elements can attendees expect from the Lagos Royale Edition, and how does it stand out from previous editions?

The Lagos Royale Edition of 'Bond with Me 007' promises a myriad of unique elements that set it apart from previous editions and contribute to an unforgettable experience. The event is designed to infuse a touch of glamor, excitement, and sophistication, drawing inspiration from the iconic James Bond franchise.

One standout feature is; the Bond Fashion, where attendees can showcase themselves in the stylish and sophisticated attire synonymous with the James Bond films. The event's electric ambiance will create an atmosphere of sophistication and intrigue, mirroring the high-stakes world of espionage that is characteristic of the Bond universe.

The entertainment promises to be top-notch, with engaging activities that captivate and delight attendees. The experience is further elevated by a gourmet champagne dinner, ensuring a culinary journey that complements the overall sense of luxury and celebration.

To ensure the success of the Lagos Royale Edition, we plan to replicate the effective planning strategies that have proven successful in previous events. This includes maintaining high standards in event coordination, engaging activities, and fostering successful collaborations with partners and sponsors. By drawing on the lessons learned from past experiences, we aim to enhance the overall quality and success of the upcoming event. My goal is not only to meet but surpass the expectations of attendees, providing a one-of-a-kind experience that reflects the essence of Bond with Me 007 while making this edition in Lagos truly exceptional.

What is the most fulfilling aspect of creating and coordinating luxurious romantic moments for your clients, and how does this translate into the Bond with Me 007; Lagos Royale Edition?

The most fulfilling aspect of creating and coordinating luxurious romantic moments for our clients lies in the ability to design flawless execution of large-scale and extravagant weddings, where every detail is meticulously planned and leaves a lasting impression. With almost 2 decades of professional event and wedding planning, we've had the pleasure of crafting memorable experiences and also received industry recognition, including awards from WeddingWire and The Knot, along with a citation from Governor Larry Hogan and the State of Maryland in 2017. The journey has been about turning dreams into reality, and the inception of Bond with Me 007 aligns with this spirit. Inspired by the intrigue and romance of 007, it goes beyond being an ordinary event—it's a curated experience.

How do you keep your business thriving during challenging times, and what strategies have proven effective for you in the event planning industry?

In the event planning industry, thriving during challenging times requires anticipating and conquering multiple layers of expected and unexpected challenges. Having been in the business for about 2 decades, I understand the diverse hurdles that may arise, whether the event is small, medium-sized, or large.

A notable example from 2023 that underscores the unpredictable nature of event planning for us was a wedding at a Jewish venue that presented unique challenges, which included food restrictions and vendor limitations. Two weeks before the event, a major vendor unexpectedly pulled out, impacting utensils, plates, chafing dishes, and warmers for a multicultural wedding with Caribbean and Nigerian influences. We knew swift action was crucial, so we secured a refund, booked a new vendor, and reassured the couple. This experience highlighted the importance of being prepared for unforeseen circumstances and having contingency plans. Without professional planning, the situation may have overwhelmed the couple and resulted in additional expenses.

To keep the business thriving, we continually learn from such experiences, emphasizing the need for proactive problem-solving, having contingency plans, and leveraging experience to adapt swiftly. These strategies have proven effective, allowing us to navigate challenges and provide exceptional event experiences.

How do you foster strong relationships with clients, vendors, and industry peers in event planning through collaboration and networking?

Collaboration and networking are crucial in our industry, and it’s something I take pride in. Over the years, we’ve developed long-lasting relationships with both clients and vendors, relying on these connections for successful event planning. We have repeat clients for weddings, birthdays, and various events, and we value the longevity of these relationships.

FTK Konnect Events embraces and welcomes networking and relationship-building. We understand the dynamics of working with both new and established brands, appreciating the mutual support and partnership in the industry. Currently, we continue to collaborate with vendors and clients we’ve worked with over the years, and we are open to connecting with new partners in the field.

What's next for you after the Lagos Royale Edition of 'Bond with Me 007'?

The Lagos Royale Edition of 'Bond with Me 007' marks just the beginning of an exciting international journey for the event. The future of Bond with Me 007 is poised to be truly global, and the decision to bring it to Lagos is a strategic step in that direction. The overwhelming buzz, interest, and partnerships surrounding the event have fueled my enthusiasm for what lies ahead.

The vision is to expand the reach of Bond with Me 007 internationally, with plans to take the event to South Africa, Dubai, and several other countries where we have successfully executed weddings and other events. I aim to diversify the experience and present it in a more luxurious manner, reminiscent of how James Bond travels to different countries and executes various projects. The future of Bond with Me 007 is set to be a global sensation, shining brightly in different countries and continuing to create beautiful ambiances that captivate audiences worldwide. I am eagerly anticipating this brighter future and the opportunity to showcase the allure of Bond with Me 007 on an international stage.