Today we’d like to introduce you to Leslie Allen.
Hi Leslie, 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?
I am a native Houstonian, wife and mother with an over 20 year career in HR. I always loved hosting gatherings for my friends and family and would find myself helping friends and family locate venues or help with ideas for their events. I personally love bringing people together in love and celebration and love it when others do as well. In researching different event venues, it ignited an interest in the event space business. After learning more, I then grew the desire to own my own venue. I consulted with experienced event space owners and that has led me to my journey in entrepreneurship and how The Gilded Palm Event Space was born!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Everything happened very fast and I did have a good foundational start with my consulting guidance.. I anticipated about 4 to 6 months to locate the right space for my vision at the right price. I actually found it within 2 months. That was exciting! That said, I didn’t have a staff or employees to start marketing, to set up events, to build the website to plan a grand opening a photographer, a content creator, someone to respond to inquiries, arrange venue tours, the janitor and more. So as most first time, small business owners do, I was the one and only to do it all.
As you know, we’re big fans of The Gilded Palm Event Space . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
The Gilded Palm Event Space is a boutique venue for intimate events great for micro weddings, receptions, birthday parties, special dinners, art shows, launch parties, bridal showers, baby showers, seminars and meetings for the community. We offer a classy art-deco inspired design that does not overshadow our client’s vision for their own events. Our venue seats up to 60 guests or 75 guests, standing room only. We have a fair and affordable pricing structure that is very competitive. All bookings include tables, clear lux chairs, Bluetooth speakers and 2 TV monitors. I believe everyone should be able to plan an unforgettable event for life’s celebrations without breaking the bank and finding the perfect venue for the right price in the best location is everything.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I believe that consulting with multiple like business owners or having a mentor in the same business space is absolutely necessary. I would not be a business owner today if I didn’t have my group of consultants. Whether you pay for the experienced guidance or you organically form your mentor group, consider your time as an investment in your business and an investment in yourself. It will save you a lot of mistakes, time and money.
Pricing:
- $700 6 Hour Venue Rental
- $1,200 6 Hour Rental / Table decor – Set Up – Breakdown
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thegildedpalm.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegildedpalmvenue?igsh=YmZia2picWkzNmw2
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16DUutRXrH/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.gilded.palm.v?_t=ZP-8v2IP99szD5&_r=1
Image Credits
I’ll be sharing photos this week
