Even as a young child, Eryne Sarabin had a passion for curating experiences and finding unique, interactive and engaging ways to bring people together with storytelling.

“As far back as I can remember, I was always keen on setting out to take on the world with new ideas, zany business propositions and a flair for creativity,” says Eryne Sarabin.

Naturally, these interests drew her to a career in marketing and communications. However, when she stumbled into the world of event planning, it felt like the stars had aligned.

“It was the perfect way to combine both areas of specialty for me,” says Eryne.

However, like most entrepreneurs she wanted to do more and dream bigger.

“Having been mentored by many small business owners over the years and knowing the industry quite well, that fateful morning came when, rather than thinking about setting out on my own, I took action and did something about it,” says Eryne.

And so, on February 1, 2015 she officially launched Tycoon Planning & Promotions.

Based in Edmonton, AB, of Tycoon Events is an award-winning, full-service event planning company. They specialize in corporate event planning, special events and conference management services.

While the Eryne’s guiding purpose is to create events that are moving, inspiring and thought provoking, she says that her team, “also loves to throw a good ‘ol fashioned party as well and do a darn good job at it!”

Today, Tycoon Events boasts an impressive list of accolades and a client roster that includes ATB Financial, United Way, the University of Alberta School of Business and The Little Potato Company. However, Eryne faced her fair share of challenges when starting the business.

Cash flow, identifying customers and determining the company’s place in the market were all big struggles for Eryne at first. But she soon discovered that there is no “right” way to run a business.

“It’s all in what works for you!” says Eryne.

Now that she’s a full-fledged business owner, she’s proud of the team she’s built as well as the opportunities she’s been able to curate for herself. However, she didn’t do it all on her own. Through Futurpreneur Canada’s Start-Up Program, she was matched with a business mentor that helped guide her through the early years of her business.

“My mentor, Dr. Mark Morpurgo, was the perfect mentor for me – someone who comes from a business background, a professor who excels in coaching and communication and someone who genuinely wanted to invest in me and see me succeed,” says Eryne.

She adds: “My experience with Futurpreneur Canada has been extremely positive and I cannot thank both the program and my mentor enough for the tools, resources and professionals that I have been given access to. When I think of the program and my experience, I am most thankful for my mentor and for the program being there to support me and hold me accountable.”

Being an entrepreneur can be a rollercoaster ride of unimaginable highs and nerve-wracking lows. Every day can be full of new challenges – but that’s exactly what makes it such an exciting and rewarding adventure.

For aspiring entrepreneurs who are looking to make the leap and become their own boss, Eryne has the following advice:

“Be flexible, be ready to pivot, be open to suggestions and constructive criticism, and be comfortable with saying ‘no’.”

Written by: Jasmine Williams, Social Media and Content Specialist, Futurpreneur Canada

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