The historic charm of the Poinsett Hotel is something that just can’t be found in a newer property. We don’t want to simply provide event space, food, beverage and sleeping rooms, we want to go above and beyond to exceed your expectations every step of the way. We strive to create an atmosphere that is like the “good ole days” when service was everything, while also trying to stay within a price range that everyone can afford for their special day, especially if you are flexible. Our wedding packages are inclusive of all fees such as room rental, taxes, gratuity, cake cutting, dancefloor, bartenders, etc. so that you know exactly what you are spending from the beginning. We offer a range of prices that vary based on the time of year, time of day and day of the week.
How did you get your current position at the Westin Poinsett?
I’ve always enjoyed working with people and volunteering for special events. I wanted a job that could be challenging, creative and different every single day. I’ve been working in luxury hotels for the last 9 years and focused exclusively on wedding for the last 6 years. Having the opportunity to be involved in a bride’s special day and through this very happy time in a couple’s life has a contagious happy effect that I love being a part of.
This is a really hard question. There are so many things that come to mind and so many pieces of so many different weddings that stand out to me. Some thoughts include the bride whose wedding dress zipper broke and was wide open on her side from her knee all the way to under her arm. She was unable to get out of it because the zipper stayed together at the top and we ended up cutting her out of it as we poured more champagne and dried her tears. As a hotel, we opened the bar to the guests to accommodate the delay and brought in an employee who was a seamstress who was able to replace the zipper and save the day in only thirty minutes. A crisis situation was saved and the wedding went on as planned and she looked as beautiful as ever. There are some brides and some mothers that I will never forget and continue to stay in touch with over the years. The hugs at the end of those special days will always be treasured, not just because I helped them create a beautiful, fun, and delicious event, but because of the memory that was made.
What are the questions a bride should ask when choosing a vendor in your field?
1. Ask over and over about what fees are not included. Things such as bartenders, cake cutting, setup, dance floor, butlers, room rental, taxes, gratuity.. All of these fees can really add up and create surprises at a time when your budget cannot handle it. Make sure you know up front and before you sign the contract exactly what you are paying.
2. Know your timing restrictions. If you plan to rent things such as linens, chairs, dancefloors, staging, etc, you may want to consider blocking out the whole day to make sure you have enough time for deliveries and setup. Most venues won’t let you deliver until the day of which can create challenges if you don’t plan for it in advance.
3. Before you purchase things for your wedding such as sparklers, ask your venue if they allow them. You hate to waste money on things that you can’t use.
What’s the hardest thing about your job?
I think that the hardest thing is finding a good personal/work life balance. It’s very hard for me to say no when people ask for late and weekend appointments as I have to be here from 8:30am – 5:30pm on weekdays as well as for the events that I work on the weekends. Luckily, my husband understands how much I love my brides and their families, as well as my job. He is very kind about my schedule as I know many spouses wouldn’t be.
Anything else we should know?
I think that to survive in this industry, you have to be a person who is patient, calm when things are crazy or don’t turn out as planned, and dependable. If a cake falls, a dress rips, a heel breaks, a groomsman has too much to drink, or any number of other things that often happen, I’ll be the person that is there with a smile to help you fix it, and I’ll love every minute of it!
Thanks so much Jennifer for taking the time to sit and talk with us. I'm sure we will be working together soon.
1 comment:
this type of post is so helpful for brides. not only are you showcasing one of the best venues in the area but you're also giving them a behind the scenes. i think that's awesome.
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