I've been exactly where you're at right now

Jes Barkman is a career coach for wedding vendors and wedding professionals that are starting their wedding vendor business or growing it

I began my career in the wedding industry as an entry-level salesperson at one of the busiest venues in Colorado. Over time, I worked my way up to Sales and Marketing Director, helping hundreds of couples and vendors along the way.

In 2020, I launched Knotted Events, expecting it to be a slow-growing side hustle. But within two weeks, I turned it into a thriving, full-time business—and I’ve never looked back.

Today, I bring my experience, honesty, and passion to the table in order to build businesses that align with your values, attract dream clients, and stand the test of time.

Let's work together

I help wedding vendors like you create businesses that are not only profitable, but fuel your fire and fit your life.

A family of three walking through a snowy landscape. The father is holding their baby, who is bundled up in winter clothing. The mother is holding the father's arm, smiling. Snow-covered trees are in the background.

About your coach

I'm a new mom to the cutest little boy, always covered in dog hair, a mountain town enthusiast (ask me the best anything across the entire state of Colorado and I will plan your whole itinerary!) and married the guy I fell in love with when I was 18.

I’m all about:

Friendors.
God I LOVE toasts (I know, I know)
Community over competition.
Window down moments when Tom Petty comes on the radio
Crested Butte
Boss Babes
Pivoting till it hits
Margarita meetings
Treating yourself

Row of orange decorative squares with symmetrical floral patterns against a black background.

Career coach Jes Barkman poses with laptop while coaching wedding vendors and wedding professionals in starting their wedding vendor business

I’m a no-go on:

The Knot and Wedding Wire - just no.
Being too good to put in the work
Peas
Fraudy feelings
Working for someone else
Winter. Take me to the beach.

You can find me:

Working on a beach in Baja when it's cold in CO
Scoping out secret spots in every mountain town
In my mom van (it's cooler than you think)
Obsessing over spotting my clients in RMB
Playing peekaboo on the floor every day. all day.

Testimonial

From my client and friends at Pike Peak’s Ranch

wedding business coaching strategy focuses graph

Still need to hear more?

Sara

Business Owner - SARA FLORES PHOTOGRAPHY
Working with Jes completely changed the game for my photography business and my only regret is not finding her sooner!! When I started the coaching sessions, I was new to wedding photography, had just relocated states, and had no idea where to even start. Jes provided me with all the tools I needed to book my dream clients and helped me make connections across the wedding industry. Jes is incredibly supportive, always keeping it real with you and pushing you towards your goals. She celebrates every win with you, big or small, making the journey even more rewarding. The best part about working with Jes is her genuine passion for helping you succeed and her belief in your potential.
Hannah

Planner Extraordinaire - KEMP & CO COLLECTIVE
When I first dreamt of starting my wedding planning business, I knew not only who I wanted, but who I needed as my business coach. As a 10 year planning veteran, Jes was able to take my ideas and help me realize my business ownership dreams. She helped me determine my ideal clientele, how to best serve them, and business practices to have longevity and success as a planner and business owner. There are no words that will ever accurately portray who she has been to me and what she has done for my business. If you are considering hiring her as your business coach, do it. You won't find anyone better or more knowledgable.
Hawley

Sales Manager - WILD BASIN LODGE
Jes is an absolute powerhouse in the wedding industry! As a seasoned wedding professional myself, I reached out to her because I needed a fresh perspective—someone who truly understands the big picture. Jes brought the outside perspective I was looking for and turned it into actionable insights by challenging me with fresh ideas and helped “shake things up” in the best way.
Her recommendations weren’t about competing; it was all about refining and highlighting what makes us special.
In sales, time is money, and every conversation with her was worth it.
Brette

Wedding Planner - WILD POPPY EVENTS
Before working with Jes, I struggled with imposter syndrome, underpricing my services, and constantly overdelivering. I was doing full planning work for day-of coordination rates and cutting into my profit with unnecessary “extras.” After working with Jes, I restructured my packages, set boundaries, and confidently raised my prices—without losing affordability. Now I have peace of mind, show up better for my clients, and my income has significantly increased!
Mariah & Jack

Wedding Venue Owners - PIKES PEAK RANCH
Jes is INCREDIBLE! We opened our wedding venue this year and Jes has been instrumental in guiding and coaching us through the chaotic process of becoming new business owners and embarking on this adventure. She is SO knowledgeable and creative and has helped us navigate all of our business challenges. We owe her for our successes and she is worth every penny! The venue would not be what it is without her.