During this time of year, social organizations, business owners, and other entities start to wrap up the year with gatherings, parties, and ‘as the younger crowd calls it, “kickbacks.” Tonia Sims, owner and operator of TLS Weddings and Special Events, started the holiday gatherings off with a double dose of her infamous R&B Nights on this past Friday and Saturday, November 25-26, 2022. R&B Nights consist of R&B music that dates mostly from the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s, solo singing acts, picture booths, plastic microphones, food trucks, and adults who want to relax, let their hair down, and just enjoy some good, old-fashioned music with family and friends. When I asked Tonia what the purpose of the R&B Nights was, she stated, “I like to provide a safe, intimate environment for adults, especially those who wear many hats like myself (working, parenting, being a spouse, etc.), to wind down, enjoy themselves, live a little, and have some much-needed fun.”People from all over the Delta show up and show out for TLS R&B Nights.
Tonia has provided entertainment for Indianola and the rest of the Delta since the “Rock the Runway” days in the early 2000s. She has gone from the modeling shows while teaching to a full-time planner and decorator for weddings, baby showers, gender reveals, parties for all ages, and just about anything that can be thought of. Simply give her your vision and it is sure to come to fruition. As a successful business owner in a small town, I asked Tonia what’s the ultimate goal of her business. She gratefully stated, “The ultimate goal of TLS is to show other small business owners that it can be done…and it can be done right here in the Mississippi Delta! Quality events are not solely exclusive to larger cities.” She has proven that time and time again over the past 15 years.
As in everything else that Tonia does, R&B Nights have become a favorite and crowd pleaser. If you have never experienced one, I encourage you to do so the next time around; you won’t be disappointed. Since it is the holidays, I asked her what she does to spread holiday cheer. With a smile on her face, she said, “I decorate at least one Christmas tree free of charge, purchase gifts for children who may be less fortunate, and host Black Card Appreciation Event for my supporters.”
