As I look back through the long list of couples who have celebrated the biggest day of their lives at the Chandelier Ballroom under my direction, I smile. I feel a sense of accomplishment, purpose and pride.
As I look back through the long list of couples who have celebrated the biggest day of their lives at the Chandelier Ballroom under my direction, I smile. I feel a sense of accomplishment, purpose and pride.
I started here in April 2003 as a 25-year-old with a degree in Hospitality & Tourism Management. My position as the Executive Director allowed me to mold this facility into a place that provides remarkable customer service and treats our guests with kindness and respect. I have helped to build an outdoor ceremony location, full service banquet kitchen and have been involved in every aspect of each renovation and restoration project that has taken place here.
I have grown our staff from 12 to 45 and have created a positive, enjoyable working environment for employees of any age. It is truly fulfilling to be involved in the signing of a work permit, then a letter of recommendation for college and finally the signing of an employment verification for the purchase of a new home. Providing employment and handing out holiday bonus checks every year to each of my staff members make my heart happy.
Managing a banquet facility involves many, many moving parts. Equipment failures, mother nature and intoxicated customers can test your patience. Blood, sweat and tears does not even scratch the surface of what it takes to survive 15 years of event coordination. The memories I have in my head are quite entertaining to say the least.
Picking a favorite wedding for me would be like asking a mother to pick her favorite child. I love them all. I love hearing stories from couples whose parents and even grandparents have met or been married at this venue. I love having the opportunity to be a part of our guest’s diverse ceremonies, rituals and family traditions. I love experiencing and learning from all types of love, no matter the race, religion, culture, ethnic background or gender. I love celebrating love!
This weekend marks the 905th wedding which I will have been a part of. I have executed every single showing of this facility, contract signing, menu tasting and final meeting. I am here with each couple on their big day to welcome them in to decorate, hold their train before they go down the aisle, provide a tissue to wipe away a tear or a shot of whiskey to ease their nerves. My job is to ensure their wedding day goes smooth without any controllable hiccups. When I leave for the night my knees and feet are sore, but I always feel as though I have given it my best effort.
I still have every hand written thank you card that I have received throughout the years. I hope hand written cards never go out of style. I am proud of the job that I do and even after all these years I still enjoy getting up for work each day. My job fulfills my heart and soul and makes me smile.
I’m already looking forward to #906.
Michele Price, Executive Director
Chandelier Ballroom
www.chandelierballroom.com