Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Lee.
Hi Kelly, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
Absolutely! Our journey to The Villa is a story of evolution, creativity, and a deep passion for bringing dreams to life. My entry into this world began with a love for photography and a desire to create a space where creativity could thrive.
Initially, I owned a studio space for photographers. This experience was incredible – it was a hub of creativity where stories were told through lenses and unforgettable moments were captured. This venture gave me a unique perspective on the importance of a perfect setting, the play of light, and the essence of capturing memories.
This understanding naturally led me to the world of weddings and events. I realized that like photography, weddings are about capturing moments, but in a different way. I wanted to create a venue that wasn’t just about the aesthetics but about the experience, a place that would serve as the perfect backdrop for life’s most beautiful moments.
Our first venture into venue management was a success, teaching us invaluable lessons about the industry. We learned about the intricacies of hosting events, from logistical challenges to creating the right ambiance.
When we discovered The Villa, it was a project that immediately captured our hearts. Despite its need for some tender Texas TLC, it had an innate charm and a story that begged to be told. My team and I, with our collective experience in creating spaces that speak to the heart, knew this was our next chapter. We brought in new investors, sharing with them not just a business plan but a vision of what The Villa could become.
Today, The Villa stands not just as a venue but as a culmination of our journey – from a photography studio to creating a place where memories are not only captured but also made. It’s a celebration of creativity, love, and the endless possibilities that come when you follow your passion.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Navigating the path to where we are today with The Villa definitely had its fair share of challenges. It’s been a journey marked by both triumphs and trials, a real testament to the resilience and dedication of our team.
One of the most significant struggles we faced was with our initial financing plan. We had a major investor who was as excited about the project as we were. Their backing was a huge part of our strategy, and when they unexpectedly backed out, it was a moment of real uncertainty. It wasn’t just about the financial setback; it was the emotional impact the doubt it cast on our vision. But instead of letting it derail our plans, we took it as a challenge to regroup and rethink our strategy.
Around the same time, we were working with a local bank to secure additional funding. This turned out to be a more demanding process than we anticipated. The bank’s requirements kept evolving, and with each new demand, we had to adapt and adjust our plans. It was a constant back-and-forth, a test of patience and persistence.
These challenges, however, taught us invaluable lessons. They pushed us to explore new avenues for funding, to strengthen our business plan, and to build a more resilient team. We learned the importance of flexibility in business, of having a Plan B (and C and D), and of never losing sight of our end goal.
In hindsight, these struggles were crucial to our growth. They forced us to think creatively, to be more resourceful, and to deepen our commitment to The Villa. The road wasn’t smooth, but the obstacles along the way only made our success more rewarding.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about The Black Oak Venues?
The Black Oak Venues, our parent company, stands as a beacon of commitment and dedication to crafting unforgettable experiences. Our focus is not just on the venues we manage, like The Villa, but on the people, we serve – our couples and clients. We’re in the business of making dreams come true, and we take that responsibility very seriously.
At the heart of our business is a deep-seated belief in taking the utmost care of our couples. We understand that a wedding or any significant event is much more than just a day’s celebration; it’s a milestone, a culmination of dreams, and a start of new beginnings. That’s why we specialize in personalizing each experience, ensuring that every detail reflects the unique story and style of the couple. Our team is known for its willingness to go the extra mile to bend over backwards if that’s what it takes to make the day as special as it can be.
What sets us apart is our commitment to the experience as a whole. It’s not just about the event day; it’s about the entire journey. From the first consultation to the final guest’s departure, we are there, guiding, supporting, and ensuring everything goes seamlessly. And if something doesn’t go as planned, we’re quick to respond with solutions and support. Our team is trained to handle unexpected situations with grace and professionalism, always keeping the couple’s peace of mind at the forefront.
Brand-wise, we take immense pride in our reputation for exceptional service and attention to detail. We want your readers to know that when they choose a Black Oak Venues property, they’re choosing a partner in their event planning process. We’re not just a venue; we’re a team of experienced professionals dedicated to making their event not just successful but truly memorable.
In essence, our brand is about more than just beautiful spaces. It’s about creating a supportive, empathetic, and flexible environment where couples feel heard, valued, and relaxed, knowing that their big day is in capable hands. We’re committed to elevating each event, making it as unique and special as the stories of the people we’re celebrating.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
In the next 5-10 years, the wedding and events industry is set for some fascinating changes. We’re moving towards more personalized experiences. Couples are looking for something that truly reflects their story, which calls for creativity and flexibility from us as professionals.
Technology is also becoming a big game-changer. We’re talking about virtual reality tours of venues and live streaming for distant guests. It’s making the planning process smoother and more connected.
Sustainability is another key shift. There’s a growing focus on eco-friendly practices, a trend that’s becoming a necessity, not just a preference.
Inclusivity is also on the rise. We’re embracing diverse cultures and traditions, ensuring events are respectful and representative of everyone involved.
Lastly, there’s a trend towards authenticity over extravagance. It’s less about lavishness and more about creating genuine, memorable experiences in unique spaces like outdoor settings or non-traditional venues.
Pricing:
- Current Special: $6500 for Saturdays and $6,000 for Fridays/Sundays
- All-inclusive packages: Vary
- Corporate Events: Contact us for pricing!
Contact Info:
- Website: thevillatyler.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevillatyler/
- Facebook: facebook.com/thevillatyler
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/thevillabyblackoak/
