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College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management

  • Nirjary Desai, a hospitality management alumnus, stands in a wedding banquet room surrounded by roses, decorated trees and branches, and a sumptuous dining table

Hospitality Career Journey: Nirjary Desai

Born in Zambia and raised in South Carolina, entrepreneur Nirjary Desai travels the world and specializes in event production, brand development and marketing. Her companies include: KIS(cubed) Events, S3 Catering, Glam Squad and Bridal Elements by Nirjary Desai. Nirjary’s unique vision and business acumen have garnered features on Bravo TV, The Wedding Channel, Harper’s Bazaar Bride India and Huffington Post. Nirjary uses her experience and expertise to empower women and young girls to achieve their dreams.

by Nirjary Desai
Posted on February 7, 2020

Career Path

I started my career in the airline industry, then moved into hotels/hospitality and marketing, then it was a natural progression that led me to start my own business. I was a hospitality management major, and I continued down the path but wanted to inspire others and elevate my own growth by also building community. My passion to serve and my career in hospitality and travel is what got me into this along with my marketing and brand management background.

Lessons from the Journey

I think the most valuable part of the college experience for me was not only the classes but also the hands-on experience. I had a job all throughout college and it taught me hard work, resilience, dedication and the importance of self-awareness and growth. Don’t listen to the noise of others who are not willing to elevate you and share your vibe, because those folks are not your tribe. It’s so important to know that there is a place for everyone who is willing to work hard and put in the time. It’s all about enjoying the journey, not just getting to the destination. Also, never forget who helped you get to where you are and always encourage and empower others because you were in their shoes at one point. The advice I would give students is one quote from Swami Vivekananda that is so important to me and is so true to anything you do in life: 

“Take up one idea. Make that one idea your life  —  think of it, dream of it, live on that idea. Let the brain, muscles, nerves, every part of your body, be full of that idea, and just leave every other idea alone.”

Don’t give up: become obsessed with it.

Future Vision

I see myself working on coaching and teaching the next generation about our industry, business and gratitude. It’s so important to share knowledge and grow others as that is what life is all about. Add me or my business on Instagram: @kis_cubed_events or @nirjarymdesai, or shoot me an email at [email protected]. I answer and manage all my social media and I am sure to respond.

The Career Journey story series shares a glimpse into the dynamic jobs of our alumni, how they got to where they are today, and their advice for the next generation — in their own words. Share your career journey story by emailing [email protected].

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