How to Host a Sold-Out Conference from Scratch: Lessons in Leadership, Mindset & Experience Design with Emily Shimwell

In this episode of The Soulful CEO Path, Yorkshire-born storyteller and experience designer Emily Shimwell joins Kristin Constable to talk about what it really takes to bring a big vision to life — even when you’ve never done it before.Emily is the founder of Dine Wilder and co-founder of Graze Wilder, two ventures united by her love of community, connection, and unforgettable experiences. Known for transforming gatherings into soul-stirring moments of meaning, Emily doesn’t just set beautiful tables — she creates moments that move people. Her mission is simple yet powerful: to help women reconnect — to themselves, to each other, and to the beauty of real human connection.In this episode, Emily shares the behind-the-scenes story of FEAST, the 100-person conference she pulled off in just a few short months — with no prior experience, no roadmap, and an unshakable belief that it was meant to happen.Together, Kristin and Emily dive deep into the mindset, strategy, and sheer determination it takes to create something extraordinary — and what it really means to lead with heart, hard work, and vision.Episode HighlightsThe Power of Belief: How Emily sold 85 out of 100 tickets face-to-face — and why conviction converts better than any sales funnel.Creating Connection That Lasts: The difference between a beautiful event and one that leaves people changed.Pricing, Positioning & Value Perception: What she learned about selling high-ticket experiences in a small market.Partnerships with Purpose: How intentional collaborations led to luxury brand sponsors (Saje, Eminence, Elate) saying “yes” instantly.Delusional Confidence as a Strategy: Why a little “healthy delusion” might be the most important mindset trait for entrepreneurs.Redefining Hard Work: The truth about hustle, alignment, and building something worth believing in.Vision for the Future: How Dine Wilder and FEAST are evolving into a movement that brings depth, connection, and humanity back into business.🎧 Listen & Subscribe:Apple PodcastsSpotifyConnect with Emily:Website: www.dinewilderevents.comIG: @emily_wilder  and @dine.wilderConnect with Kristin Constable:Instagram: @kristinconstableWebsite: www.soulfulceo.coJoin KNOWN: Kristin’s free Telegram space for ambitious, soul-led women where we expand these conversations even further. Click here to join