Employee Spotlight Archives - Infinity Hospitality Design | Event Planning | Production Fri, 31 May 2024 18:58:01 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/cropped-IH_Logo_512x512-1-32x32.png Employee Spotlight Archives - Infinity Hospitality 32 32 Employee Spotlight: Haley Simpson https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/employee-spotlight-haley-simpson/ Wed, 08 Nov 2023 07:00:28 +0000 https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/?p=35129 Find out more about November's employee spotlight, event coordinator Haley Simpson.

The post Employee Spotlight: Haley Simpson appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>

A Q&A WITH HALEY SIMPSON

EVENT COORDINATOR WITH IH

Originally from Davenport, Iowa, Haley graduated from Iowa State University in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in event management, a history working in the hospitality industry, and a passion for planning.

After graduation, Haley “always knew” she wanted to “venture out of the Midwest.” She decided to start a new chapter in Nashville due to the variety of opportunities in events and, of course, her love of country music. And the weather is definitely a perk!

Before becoming an event coordinator, Haley was an event caption, which she says gave her valuable experience managing both event staff and bartenders to ensure successful events. She’s thrilled for her new position that will allow her to build relationships with clients and bring their visions to life.

“I have always loved being creative and planning get-togethers with friends. I have a passion for creating memorable experiences,” Haley shared. 

Outside of work, you’ll find Haley exploring Nashville restaurants, going for long walks with her two pups, and trying new recipes. Her current favorite go-to burger spot in Nashville is Pharmacy Burger! Yum.

How long have you been in the hospitality industry? How long have you been a planner?

I have been in the hospitality industry for six years. I have been a planner for two years.

Where do you draw inspiration from?

I draw a lot of inspiration from Pinterest and other social media platforms. I also love bouncing ideas off of others and taking inspiration from those conversations.

How do you stay on top of everything? Any organizational tips or tricks?

To stay organized, I love writing out a to-do list each day. This helps me stay on top of my responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed. I always have a pen and sticky note nearby to write things down.

What themes or unique details have been your favorite from one of your events?

My favorite theme that I have done is “Life is A Highway” for a corporate trade show where we incorporated vintage decor, cars on display, checkered flags, and even had Gary Levox perform. As far as wedding details, I have two pups of my own so I love when clients want to incorporate their pets into their special day.

If you could give one piece of advice to couples planning a wedding, what would it be?

My piece of advice for couples is to take the time to enjoy the whole process. It is such an exciting time in life and can be easy to lose sight of the meaning behind all of the planning.

What are some of the challenges you face when planning an event and how do you overcome them?

Some challenges that I face when planning events are adapting quickly to potential issues. As a planner, you think you have every detail thought through; however, unpredictable issues can arise that may alter the plan. To overcome these obstacles, I take a step back and prioritize what would make the experience best for the client.

What is one of your favorite memories from one of your events?

My favorite memory from one of my events is receiving the biggest hug from a client and being told how great of an experience they had with us. I truly want each client to feel like their day was absolutely perfect.

What’s your favorite part about your job and why?

My favorite part of my job is seeing all of the planning and design come to fruition and clients having a wonderful time surrounded by friends and loved ones. I love the diversity of planning weddings and corporate events.

Photography by Sabrina Englehart and Details Nashville.

The post Employee Spotlight: Haley Simpson appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>
Employee Spotlight: Riley Shannon https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/employee-spotlight-riley-shannon/ Tue, 03 Oct 2023 07:00:36 +0000 https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/?p=34955 Find out more about October's Employee Spotlight, Riley Shannon.

The post Employee Spotlight: Riley Shannon appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>

A Q&A WITH RILEY SHANNON

EVENT DESIGNER WITH IH

Riley was born and raised in San Luis Obispo, California, and attended college at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. She graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science degree with a concentration in event planning and communications. She began her career as an event planner right out of college and has been working in the hospitality industry for 5 years!

Wanting to continue her event planning career in a new place with a thriving industry, she eventually moved to the Music City. “I had always loved visiting Nashville, so I made the jump and moved! I didn’t know anyone here when I moved, and have made the greatest community of friends,” Riley explained.

Growing up, Riley’s parents were fabulous entertainers, so she discovered her love for event planning very early on! She helped her parents host countless celebrations at her dad’s winery and inherited her design skills from her mother. Watching her mom is where she first saw the thrill and beauty involved in event planning. 

Outside of work, you can find Riley enjoying some fresh air and walking the trails around Nashville, traveling to new places, at Disneyland, or trying all the new restaurants the city has to offer! Her current favorites are dining at The Optimist and exploring 12South.

Where do you draw inspiration from?

I draw inspiration from a lot of different places! A lot of my events are inspired by seasons and themes. I also love to take inspiration from travel photos in coffee table books or magazines. I try not to follow trends but instead create them.

How do you stay on top of everything? Any organizational tips or tricks?

Every morning I have the same routine. I sit down and write my list of priorities for the day, and then write them out for my team as well according to their clients. It’s helpful to compartmentalize everyone’s tasks and be clear about what needs to get done.

In regard to weddings, I look at the event day from start to finish and work that way— start with the ceremony, work into cocktail hour, etc. I try to stay in chronological order as opposed to jumping around. This helps things to not fall through the cracks.

What themes or unique details have been your favorite from one of your events?

We incorporated a custom denim jacket bar from Levi’s for our guests; it was a huge hit! I also loved planning a corporate event with the theme “Life is a Highway.” We brought in a race car, stoplights, and race track lighting. It was such a fun opportunity to be creative and bring in so many unexpected elements to out-of-town guests.

If you could give one piece of advice to couples planning a wedding, what would it be?

Trust your planner and enjoy the process. Planners have your best interest in mind and will use their expertise to give you the day of your dreams. And make it personal to you and your fiancé! Incorporate elements that represent you as a couple that people can talk about.

What are some of the challenges you face when planning an event and how do you overcome them?

Budgets are the biggest challenge I face when planning an event; it encourages me to be creative and provide the client with their desired design within their budget comfort zone. I work on repurposing items for dual use to cut costs, as well as prioritizing certain elements for wow factor, and being conservative in other areas.

What is one of your favorite memories from one of your events?

I threw a corporate holiday party last year. We organized a charity drive and each guest came with gifts to donate to the local children’s hospital. It was the most heartwarming, rewarding feature of any event I have put on.

What’s your favorite part about your job and why?

Creating relationships with clients from all over the country and helping them create a memorable experience that they will talk about for years to come. It’s a privilege to be an integral part of someone’s event and show them how much I care through the success of their day.

What is the biggest difference from being an event coordinator to event designer?

Responsibility. Designers are much more client-facing and responsible for budgets, timeliness, and execution!

For more weddings and events by Riley, click below!

The post Employee Spotlight: Riley Shannon appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>
Employee Spotlight: Priscilla Stewart https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/employee-spotlight-priscilla-stewart/ Tue, 13 Jun 2023 16:33:14 +0000 https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/?p=34271 Find out more about June's employee spotlight, event coordinator, Priscilla Stewart.

The post Employee Spotlight: Priscilla Stewart appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>

A Q&A WITH PRISCILLA STEWART

EVENT SPECIALIST WITH IH

Born in Port Chester, New York, with a few years in Maryland, Priscilla’s family made their way to Nashville during her teenage years. She later attended the University of Tennessee - Chattanooga where she received her bachelor’s in psychology.

After college, Priscilla taught pre-school for three years at The Goddard School, where she was awarded Teacher of the Year in 2020. After moving from teaching, she worked for a year in administration at NHC Place Sumner and was then looking for a change.

So what got her into event planning? “I’ve always been the party planner in my family and my friend group,” Priscilla shared with us. When the opportunity at Infinity presented itself, she applied for the event coordinator position and “took a leap of faith!” She is so excited to be a part of the team and loves both the people she works with and the variety of events. 

In her spare time, Priscilla enjoys spending time with her musician husband and watching him play around town, most notably at the Grande Ole Opry. She loves going to the driving range, supporting the Nashville Preds, and traveling the world— especially visiting her family in El Salvador and Puerto Rico. She says if you ever need a dance partner, she is your girl! Salsa, bachata, and hip-hop are her specialties.

Headshot of Event Coordinator, Priscilla Stewart
How long have you been in the hospitality industry? How long have you been a planner?

I’ve been in the hospitality industry for about a year now, and at the end of May, that marked my 1 year anniversary with Infinity Hospitality!

Where do you draw inspiration from?

I’m always on social media and Pinterest keeping up with new trends and ideas. I love to read my clients’ personalities because that guides me in what they may like or not like.

How do you stay on top of everything? Any organizational tips or tricks?

I take lots and lots and lots of notes! We have a master Google Doc for each event and that’s where we take notes. Even during vendor meetings, when a vendor is leading the meeting, I still take notes so I have a paper trail of what was discussed. I usually abbreviate in the Google Doc during the meeting, and then after the meeting I go back and go more in detail since it’s fresh on my mind.

Closeup of Bride's Bouquet and Groom
Three Tiered White Wedding Cake
What themes or unique details were your favorite from one of your events?

I’m a huge fan of color! A lot of my favorite events have been the ones who weren’t afraid to add some personality to their event with color. I think it’s a fun and creative way to make your event stand out from the rest.

If you could give one piece of advice to couples planning a wedding what would it be?

I would tell couples to trust their planners during the process. Our job is to plan your wedding from start to finish.

Priscilla Hugging Bride on Wedding Day before Ceremony
Priscilla Adjusting Bridal Veil at Outdoor Wedding
What are some of the challenges you face when planning an event and how do you overcome them?

Sometimes it’s difficult to explain certain aspects of a client’s event when they live out of state. We always try our best to explain everything to the best of our ability through emails, phone calls, and virtual meetings. Sometimes things are explained better when it’s in person! Whenever it’s time to schedule a design meeting or a venue walkthrough, we always suggest that our clients come in town for those. It’s beneficial and more fun to pick out linen colors in person rather than through a screen!

Green Table Setting For Sumer and Ronnie's Wedding Reception
Printed Seating Chart Posted to Mirror
What is one of your favorite memories from one of your events?

One of my favorite memories was from an event at The Estate at Cherokee Dock. My couple got married during COVID and we hosted their wedding celebration. The celebration was just a giant party! We had a scotch tasting bar, a boat ride, a golf driving range, a custom menu, romantic lighting, beautiful florals, and multiple lounge arrangements. It was such a beautiful and fun event!

What’s your favorite part about your job?

I love getting to meet new people and making relationships with my clients. Every client is different and unique. I am also a newlywed as of a year and a half ago and I love getting to share my personal experiences with other couples since I know exactly what my clients are currently going through.

Headshot of Event Coordinator, Priscilla Stewart

The post Employee Spotlight: Priscilla Stewart appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>
Employee Spotlight: Event Director Kalyn Newport https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/event-director-kalyn-newport/ Tue, 16 May 2023 07:00:22 +0000 https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/?p=34126 Find out more about May's Employee Spotlight, Kalyn Newport, the Event Director.

The post Employee Spotlight: Event Director Kalyn Newport appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>

A Q&A WITH KALYN NEWPORT

FROM EVENT DESIGNER TO EVENT DIRECTOR

Since we last shared Kalyn, she's been promoted to event director, so we're checking back in now that she has new responsibilities!

Kalyn grew up in a small town in East Tennessee before moving to Knoxville for six years. Once she accepted a position with Infinity Hospitality in 2018, she made her way to Nashville. She knew this would be the perfect fit for her, and we couldn't agree more!

Kalyn got into event planning at The University of Tennessee while interning with the UT Department of Conferences and Non-Credit programs, later accepting a full time position. She gained experience in the event industry and truly discovered her love for planning events of all types and sizes.

When Kalyn has free time, she loves to dip into her creative abilities and paint. If she's not directing an event or painting away, you can probably find her sipping on a cocktail at Rosemary & Beauty Queen, eating a killer piece of pizza at Five Points Pizza, or catching a live music show.

Read on to learn more about Kalyn’s new role and click here to check out her previous spotlight in 2020!

Kalyn Newport
 Describe an average work day

Coffee first, always! Check in with my teams, prioritize my to-dos for the day, clear my inbox, attend client meetings, meet with new vendors, review lots and lots of contracts, floor plans and design boards, eat lunch somewhere in the mix, chat with the sales team, and introduce new clients and events to our Event Team.

How do you stay on top of everything? Any organizational tips or tricks?

I live by my Google Calendar and prioritize my tasks with a color coded system in my email that is based on order of importance.

What has been the biggest change you've noticed within the event industry since you began? 

Budgets are the biggest change. The average cost of events has nearly doubled. 

Any major trends you’ve noticed recently?

The timeless "black and white" wedding is back in style. 

Three to four years ago videography was not a high priority in the budget for couples, and now it's back to being a top must-have service.

Hannah and Caleb's Classic Glamorous Wedding
Hannah and Caleb's Custom LED Sign
What are some of the challenges you face in your new role, and how do you overcome them?

Our team has grown SO much in the last 5 years. It's certainly no small feat to memorize 20-30 events as an Event Coordinator, but try memorizing 400+ events in a calendar year, you simply cannot. That is what our 12 amazing event designers & coordinators are for. I trust each of my teams to know their events backwards and forwards and fill me in on the details as needed.

What’s your favorite part about being a director?

I love being connected with each department. It's fun to brainstorm and work on new ideas with marketing, lighting, and culinary teams.

Event Director Kalyn Newport posses with two grooms
What do you appreciate most about your team? 

That everyone is so passionate about what they do. Each person I work with takes so much pride in their work and truly wants to provide the best client/guest experience.

What is one of your favorite events and/or theme from an IH event?

A masquerade themed Halloween wedding! During COVID, we helped so many couples find new dates and one of my couples postponed their reception to Halloween. We originally started with a very classic design style of ivory with accents of navy, sage, blush, and then did a complete 180 once the new date was selected and fully embraced the Halloween date - Masquerade style!

Janie and Andrew's Celebration at The Bell Tower by Kalyn
Andrew and Janie at the Bell Tower for Wedding Celebration from Kalyn
How has your experience been working with IH?

It has been awesome! So many people at our company have helped me grow professionally. I would have never imagined myself in the spot I am in now 5 years ago. During my last interview I even asked, "Are you sure you want to hire me? I've never even run a wedding." I'm very thankful that Infinity took a leap of faith with me. I learn new things every single day; we keep it interesting around here!

In your opinion, what makes an event successful and how do you measure that success?

That our clients and guests walk away having a great experience, if not the best day of their whole lives. Chatting with our clients, brides and grooms, their parents and friends at the end of the night is always a great way to measure our success. An online review is great, but hearing about how great of a job your team did from clients/guests in-person is always a gratifying feeling.

Kalyn Helping Bride with Dress at The Bell Tower

See more of Kalyn's events below.

The post Employee Spotlight: Event Director Kalyn Newport appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>
Employee Spotlight: Trung Pham https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/employee-spotlight-trung-pham/ Thu, 23 Mar 2023 07:00:59 +0000 https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/?p=33703 Find out more about this month's employee spotlight, Trung Pham, the executive chef.

The post Employee Spotlight: Trung Pham appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>

A Q&A WITH TRUNG PHAM

EXECUTIVE CHEF WITH IH

Trung was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, by his parents who are originally from Vietnam. He grew up cooking alongside his mom, helping make their family meals. After going to school for dentistry and feeling like it wasn’t his calling, Trung’s aunt suggested he pursue cooking. The next day, he signed up for culinary school at the esteemed Le Cordon Bleu.

Trung has now been in the industry for 7 years, starting his journey in Charleston, South Carolina, at The Sanctuary Hotel in Kiawah Island. He worked his way up from the banquets department to sous chef before traveling abroad through the UK, Europe, South Asia, and New Zealand broadening his horizons of food and culture.

He then joined the Infinity team as a sous chef before being promoted to executive chef!

When he’s not working, Trung loves going to different coffee shops around Nashville with his wife. His favorite spot is District Coffee. “This place reminds me of New Zealand and Australia,” he says. “They have fantastic sausage rolls as well as a proper flat white coffee.”

He also says pour-over coffee is a must; it takes time to brew but it’s worth the wait. Read more about him below!

Staff headshot of Trung Pham, executive chef
What was the first dish you learned to cook?

The infamous beef pho from my mom. This dish is definitely a work of love and labor.

What is your favorite item from the Infinity menu?

There are many excellent options! I would have to choose the shrimp and grits. You can’t go wrong with creamy grits, Creole bacon sauce, and succulent Cajun shrimp. I am a Southern boy through and through.

 

What’s one ingredient you can’t live without? 

MSG seasoning. I believe it gives life to everything! Only at home of course.

What are some of the challenges you face within your position, and how do you overcome them? 

Keeping up with the ever-changing food trends and updating our menu every year. I like to go to different restaurants to [stay] up-to-date on the trends.

Plated Entree
If you could give one piece of advice when deciding on a wedding menu, what would it be?

Be inclusive and have variety in your menu— a land protein, a sea protein, and a vegetarian option.

What was your most memorable meal, who made it, and why was it memorable?

The sixteen-course Tasting Menu at McGrady’s in Charleston, S.C. by Sean Brock. The meal covered all of our senses and imagery as well. 

What’s your favorite part about your job? 

Training and teaching techniques to my brigade, as well as hearing and seeing our happy guests.

 What kind of catering trends are you seeing?

 Charcuterie and cheese boards are popping back up, as well as cultural culinary experiences.

Passed App for Cocktail Hour
Pepper Jelly Pimento Cheese Bruschetta

The post Employee Spotlight: Trung Pham appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>
Employee Spotlight: Kevin McCarthy https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/employee-spotlight-kevin-mccarthy/ Mon, 16 Jan 2023 07:00:12 +0000 https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/?p=32979 Our employee spotlight for January is on the General Manager for the Estate at Cherokee Dock, Kevin McCarthy.

The post Employee Spotlight: Kevin McCarthy appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>

A Q&A WITH KEVIN McCARTHY

GENERAL MANAGER OF CHEROKEE DOCK

Kevin grew up about 1.5 hours north of Chicago. After finding his way into the restaurant world while in college, it laid the foundation for his career in hospitality and allowed him to cultivate his passion for the guest experience.

After 10 years working in the industry, Kevin took a break to travel extensively throughout Central and South America. He says it was an explorative time that provided countless opportunities to experience the other side of the hospitality industry, on both its most basic and extravagant levels. 

With four years at the Estate at Cherokee Dock and one with Infinity Hospitality, he couldn’t think of a better place to be doing what he loves. His passion is creating spaces where guests have the opportunity to create unforgettable experiences. Scroll on to read more about our General Manager of Cherokee Dock.

Staff headshot of Kevin McCarthy
How long have you been in the industry?

15 years

What got you interested in hospitality?

Working my way through the restaurant business, I became hooked on the guest interaction and soon after really the whole culture. I like seeing happy people.

How do you stay on top of everything? Any organizational tips or tricks?

Having good systems and an exceptional team really is the only way to keep everything running smoothly, and I am fortunate to have both.

 

Describe the average work day.

I always start the day [by] walking the property. We have quite the campus out here, and I find it to be the best way to stay connected to the property. Then after a quick check-in with the team and a couple cups of coffee, we get after it.  Whether it's ensuring the estate is at its best for tours or making sure events are being set up efficiently, the day brings enough variety to keep things interesting.

Do you have any advice for clients who are shopping for a venue?

There are generally a lot of excited emotions when couples are at that step, and, while the venue itself may be easy to fall in love with, remember to look at everything the venue is bringing to the table. When booking with us, they are getting much more than a beautiful space; they are getting a team of industry professionals that work in step to ensure a successful and memorable experience.  

What’s your favorite part about your job and why?

Seeing the final product come to life— it's the best!

What's the most challenging part of your job and how do you overcome it?

Mother Nature. Trust the plan and hope for the best. 

The post Employee Spotlight: Kevin McCarthy appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>
Employee Spotlight: Gail Peterson https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/employee-spotlight-gail-peterson/ Mon, 12 Dec 2022 16:42:40 +0000 https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/?p=32747 Find out more about December's employee spotlight, event captain Gail Peterson.

The post Employee Spotlight: Gail Peterson appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>

A Q&A WITH GAIL PETERSON

EVENT CAPTAIN WITH IH

Looking for a fresh start and to get away from the cold winters, Gail Petereson moved to Tennessee from Connecticut during the summer of 2022. She joined the Infinity team on June 14, and we’re so happy to have her. 

She has a long history in the hospitality industry, and when she’s not working, she enjoys being outside on a bike ride, hike, or her paddle board when she can. 

Read on to find out more about Gail, our Event Captain!

Staff headshot of Gail Peterson, an event captain
How long have you been in the industry?

I worked part-time for a top catering company in Connecticut bartending and then started doing more with the company just about 7 years ago.

What is one of your favorite events Infinity has done?

Can't say I have a favorite event yet, but there have been some good ones!

Describe your role as an event captain.

My role as an event captain trainer is working closely with the other captains and trainers. I work with all staff and event coordinators at events to help make sure everything goes smoothly. Some days are easier than others.

What is something about your job that most people might not know?

I don't think some people may realize how much is involved or how mentally and physically demanding it can be some days.

What is your favorite Infinity venue and why?

I love Cherokee Dock as it is not only beautiful but reminds me of a lot of the wineries I worked at back in Connecticut. I also love being by the water!

What’s your favorite part about your job and why?

I enjoy the atmosphere and seeing people happy on their special day.

Plated Entree

The post Employee Spotlight: Gail Peterson appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>
Employee Spotlight: Kelly Vick https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/employee-spotlight-kelly-vick/ Sun, 18 Sep 2022 02:00:44 +0000 https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/?p=32108 Find out more about September's employee spotlight, sales specialist Kelly Vick.

The post Employee Spotlight: Kelly Vick appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>

A Q&A WITH KELLY VICK

SALES SPECIALIST WITH ECD

Kelly, originally from New England, grew up in south Florida before moving to Nashville 8 years ago! “I was working for a Nashville-based financial tech company and spending a week or so here every month, but the food, music, and energy of the city all drew me in, and I moved here full time in fall of 2014,” she explained.

Kelly returned to the events industry 6 years ago. She grew up around catering and private events with her mother, who worked for Martha Stewart when she was young. Her mom always jokes that she started training Kelly for the event industry from day one!

“Growing up, my sisters and I spent many late nights in the kitchen with my mom before events, and as a teenager I started working in restaurants and with catering companies,” Kelly told us. “Before working with Infinity, I was handling private events for a Nashville-based restaurant group for several years.”

In her free time, Kelly Ioves being creative; home decor projects and collage art are two of her favorite artistic outlets. She started taking figure skating lessons a few years ago and is still trying to convince her husband it would be fun to start a pairs team! They reside in The Nations with their cat Lucy and love being able to walk in some of their favorite spots, including Percy Warner and Radnor.

Staff headshot of Kelly Vick, a sales specialist
How long have you been with Infinity and the Estate at Cherokee Dock?

I have been with Infinity since the beginning of 2022 and am finishing my first year at The Estate at Cherokee Dock.

How did you get into sales?

I was offered my first opportunity in sales after approaching an executive in my former company with a list of reasons he should participate in a blood drive I was organizing. He asked if I had ever considered a career in sales and whether I liked to travel. The next five years saw me in and out of airports across the country, and I have been in sales ever since!

What is one of your favorite events the Estate at Cherokee Dock has done?

My favorite event at Cherokee Dock is probably the first couple that I booked [there]! Watching the details we discussed during our first meeting go from just an idea to real life was incredibly special, and I cherished Michael and Meredith's happy smiles on wedding day. 

The most memorable details I've seen would be a tie between acrobats and synchronized swimmers as cocktail hour entertainment. Both definitely got the guests (and the staff) talking!

Do you have any advice for clients who are shopping for a venue?

My advice for clients who are shopping for a venue is that the most important thing about your wedding day is the moment you walk out of your venue as a married couple and begin your lives together! Beyond that, knowing what key details are most important to you (having your pets involved, lots of room for a big guest list, great music, beautiful scenery, etc.) and sharing those with your venue/planner will help make sure it is the right fit and give you the confidence to say “I do” to a venue.

What's one of the most commonly asked questions?

One question I get asked all the time is "what will the weather be like?" I can't predict it, but I've gotten pretty familiar with the average highs and lows and precipitation throughout the year. Cherokee Dock offers multiple event spaces, indoors and outdoors, so I help my couples understand how we would use the spaces year-round and in any type of weather!

What's one of the weirdest questions you've been asked on a venue tour?

One of the most unusual questions I've received is probably "can we do our wedding exit on jet skis?" The answer was yes!

What’s your favorite part about your job and why?

My favorite part of my job is that I get to meet couples at such a happy time in their lives and be a part of the exciting moment when they decide when and where they will say "I do!" Creatively, seeing our venues transformed week after week for each of our couples brings me so much joy and inspiration. I never get tired of watching florists work their magic.

What's the most challenging part of your job and how do you overcome it?

The most challenging part of my job is when I have multiple couples interested in the same date! I hate for anyone to be disappointed, so try to understand early on how much flexibility they have with their date and do everything I can to help them make their decision before anyone else snaps up their date.

Meredith and Michael's Wedding Sign

Photos by Sabrina Englehart

Merideth and Michael's Wedding Reception

The post Employee Spotlight: Kelly Vick appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>
Employee Spotlight: Katie Flanagan https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/employee-spotlight-katie-flanagan/ Wed, 20 Jul 2022 02:00:00 +0000 https://infinityhospitalitygroup.com/?p=31684 Find out more about July's Employee Spotlight, Katie Flanagan, an office administrator and HR director.

The post Employee Spotlight: Katie Flanagan appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>

A Q&A WITH KATIE FLANAGAN

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR and STAFFING & HR DIRECTOR WITH IH

Katie was born and raised in South Bend, Ind. and has three older brothers. She moved to Nashville 3 years ago to be close to her nieces and nephews.

Katie graduated from Ball State University with a bachelor’s in organizational communication but got into hospitality after graduating because of her love of weddings. She was the little girl who always dreamed about her wedding day. The movie “The Wedding Planner” sealed her destiny. After several years of being an event coordinator, Katie decided to move behind the scenes on the operational side. 

She is a true dog mom to Brody and Gracie, and it is rare to see her without them!

Read on to learn more about Katie for July's Employee Spotlight.

Katie Flanagan
How long have you been in the hospitality industry?

I have been in the business for over 15 years!

What does company culture mean to you?

Company culture means an environment where people are free to express ideas and opinions, and where everyone collaborates instead of competes.

Who do you think influences company culture and how?

Every single employee from the top to the bottom - both new and old employees. When one or two employees aren't happy, it spreads through the organization like wildfire making a toxic environment.

How do you stay on top of everything? Any organizational tips or tricks?

To-do lists and reminders! I use the My Tasks in my email to keep me organized and remind me of things that need to be done. I also make lists in my head of things that need to be done before I leave for the day.

Catie and Brendan's Reception
Describe the average work day.

Wow this is a tough one as my days are never the same. I go by the hour and what hat I am wearing! From HR and onboarding, to project management of the office construction, to making sure the events are staffed. My days are crazy, but I love that my days are not repetitive. Some days I feel as though I can write a book with the items that I tackle.

What factors do you consider when staffing an event?

The staff itself. Making sure each event has an equal number of Infinity staff and strong workers!

Catie and Brendan
Wedding Lighting
What are some of the work challenges you face and how do you overcome them?

Staffing is definitely a challenge, especially with COVID. Making sure staff shows up and always having a plan B, C, D and E. Without backup plans, I wouldn't be able to overcome the staffing challenges.

What’s your favorite part about your job and why?

I love that I get a new challenge every day to help me grow professionally. One of the first conversations I had with the CEO when [I was] hired was, "Your job is to just figure it out," so that's what I do. I just figure it out and have learned so much about myself in the process.

Catie and Brendan's Paper Goods

Photos by Grace Pumpelly

The post Employee Spotlight: Katie Flanagan appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

]]>