In The Wild with Ally Grodd, President of Propelle + Connect

The events industry is ever-changing—full of new challenges, opportunities, and moments that test your grit. But for Ally Grodd, founder of Propelle + Konnect, staying authentic and deeply connected to her clients has been the secret sauce to growing a small, scrappy business into a flourishing one. Over 17 years, she’s worked with luxury brands in international airports and built partnerships that have stood the test of time.

But it didn’t start with luxury. Ally’s journey began with a single small client—one that grew and brought Propelle + Konnect along for the ride. That partnership remains strong to this day. For Ally, it’s about treating every client like your most important one, no matter their size.

Whether you’re just starting out or deep into your entrepreneurial journey, here are 13 lessons from Ally’s playbook to help you grow, thrive, and stay grounded along the way:

1. Build Relationships That Last

Your network is your lifeline. Invest in meaningful relationships with people you want to grow with.

2. Treat Every Customer Like They’re Your Biggest

Even the smallest client deserves red-carpet treatment. Exceptional service builds loyalty—and loyalty drives referrals.

3. Hire Wisely

Your team is everything. Bring in people who not only get your vision but want to help build it with you.

4. Focus on What You Do Best

You can’t do everything—nor should you try. Identify your strengths, refine them, and own your niche.

5. Embrace Your Uniqueness

What makes you different is what makes you valuable. Lean into your individuality—it’s your secret weapon.

6. Network Relentlessly

Reach out. Follow up. Stay top of mind. People do business with those they know and trust.

7. Be an Expert

Deep knowledge isn’t just impressive—it’s necessary. When you know your stuff, clients and peers will see you as a go-to.

8. Go All In

Building something amazing takes everything you’ve got. Be fully committed to your vision, even when it’s hard.

9. See Failure as Fuel

Not every pitch will land. Not every opportunity will pan out. But every failure teaches you something valuable.

10. Learn from Setbacks

When things don’t go as planned, use it as a mirror. Reflect on what happened, what you can change, and what you’ll do better next time.

11. Be Memorable

People work with people they like. Stand out by being approachable, interesting, and authentically you.

12. Adapt and Innovate

The market never stays still. Your ability to pivot and innovate will keep you relevant—and ahead.

13. Listen to Your Customers

Your customers are the heart of your business. Value their feedback, and let their needs guide your growth.

Inspiration is Everywhere

Entrepreneurship isn’t just about numbers and strategies—it’s deeply personal. Ally takes inspiration from her immersion in the travel industry to craft personalized services for luxury brands. “What sets us apart is that we really stick with who we are and the creative nature of our business because there’s a full force of a great team,” says Ally.

If you’re starting out—or leveling up—these lessons can be your guide. Keep them close, but always adapt them to your unique journey. The key is staying true to your values, surrounding yourself with a motivated team, and remembering that the little things, like how you treat a small client, are often the big things.

Your business is an extension of you. Build it thoughtfully, authentically, and with a lot of heart.