The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

FREEPORT - A Grand Bahama native is creating a niche for herself in the event planning business in southern California.

Bahamian Jacklyn Flowers has been featured in the May 2012 issue of Caypen Magazine, "celebrating women entrepreneurs".

Ms Flowers, who is making a big impact in the California business community, has started a new business venture - Jacklyn Flowers Presents - an event planning, training and management company that specialises in creating Caribbean-themed event gatherings.

Relocating to the United States at the age 17 with her family, Ms Flowers developed a passion for event planning, organising weddings and children's events as a side career.

Through her company, she is introducing the Caribbean, and especially the island of Grand Bahama, to Californians.

In Caypen Magazine, Ms Flowers says never giving up is one of her keys to personal success.

Her achievement is a success story for other Bahamians with an entrepreneurial attitude.

Jetta Baptiste, a close friend and associate, commended Ms Flowers on her success.

"She is a native Grand Bahamian who expanded her business in southern California and is getting great recognition for her efforts as a result.

"Ms Flowers, who is so passionate about all things Caribbean, works diligently to promote the Caribbean islands at each opportunity she gets, and especially the island of Grand Bahama, her birthplace."

Ms Baptiste said Ms Flowers is always educating Californians and others about what Caribbean countries are all about in terms of culture, music, business and traditions.

"She has an engaging personality and an infectious smile, and she is not afraid to approach and talk to people. Because of her friendliness, people find her approachable, warm, and easy to talk to.

"Her business is so successful and people are now planning to travel to the Caribbean personally to get a first-hand view, and experience the warmth of the gentle Caribbean people themselves," Ms Baptiste added.

Ms Flowers' goal is "to make sure that California's business leaders and entrepreneurs are exposed to all the potential that the Caribbean offers, not only for vacationing, but for also expanding business investment opportunities and reaching new markets and thereby increasing their financial resources and their bottom line."