Today we’d like to introduce you to Warren Huntley
Hi Warren, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
After more than twenty years in the marketing, special events and entertainment industries, Warren A. Huntley launched the Atlanta based Special Events Firm, Warren Huntley Presents, Inc. in 2004 as one of the only, Black owned, full service, Special Events Production and Event Design Companies in the area specializing in small and large scale luxury brand event production, décor design and logistics services specifically for the entertainment, sports, retail, PR and marketing industries as well as high end weddings, private parties and both philanthropic social and charity Balls and Galas. Our extensive range of in-house services includes everything from exceptional cuisine and cutting edge decor and design to lighting, sound and entertainment with an uncompromising attention to service and detail.
A native of Brooklyn, New York, but raised in Shelby, North Carolina, Warren Huntley Presents (WHP) founder is a published writer of both short stories and poetry and is an avid art collector. His current collection includes both contemporary original paintings and signed prints and sculptures from both national and local artists and craftsmen as well as a few of his own original pieces. Professional and volunteer affiliations include The Boys and Girls Clubs of America, The Advisory Council of The Thompson Hotel Brand, The March of Dimes, ISES (International Special Events Society) AID Atlanta, Founding Fathers Circle of Moving in the Spirit and Project Open Hand/Atlanta and an avid supporter of a number of Nonprofit Organizations, Charities, Boards and Foundations.
Also serves as a regular lecturer and advisor for seminars and workshops on “The Art of Effortless Entertaining”.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It was a little rough in the very beginning, starting out as a brand new company without any actual start up funding, no tangible clients and no advertising. Ironically however a pre-existing group of supportive friends including celebrities and business owners became unconditional supporters literally overnight, putting us in the black operationally in our very first year in business.
Finding our path, establishing our social presence, building the ideal staff and making our mark on a very specific market reflecting my “mental brand” definitely took some time and lots of trial and error, but paid off quite quickly. Coming from a nightclub and entertainment business background, I personally knew a lot of people that came to the rescue and have remained loyal supporters along the way.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
We are a Black Owned, full service Special Events Production and Event Design Company. While there are endless lists of Caterers, Event Planners, Florists/Event Designers in Atlanta, we’re one of the few that actively combines all aspects of the Event Industry all in one. While we do have a very small circle of Service Partners, we do 98% of our work in-house which is what are clients desire. One stop, turn key service without having to rely on a long laundry list of different vendors to deliver their vision. We’re known for our hands on approach to event execution, our service is impeccable because I hand train every member of our Team, full and part time. We specialize in complete package decor activation and because we are full service, it does not limit our accessibility or hinder what we can or can not do. It also allows us to easily provide our service in other cities.
I’m a super detailed person, borderline OCD and that benefits our clients particularly. We take complete ownership of every part of the event process no matter the type of event or who the client is and they appreciate the opportunity to literally step back and be a guest at their own event. It’s not just a cliche with us. I look at and treat each activation as if it is literally “my” cocktail party, “my” wedding, “my” product launch, “my” charity event, etc., but someone else is cutting the check…so every activation is very personal.
I’m not more proud of any specific aspect over the other, simply because everything about us (collectively) makes us who we are and who we are is what I am most proud of. However, a couple of things have recently happened that make me pause in humble appreciation though. Last year, I was lauded a Lifetime Achievement Award by The President of the United States for a commitment to Service and Community and February 22, 2024 was recognized as Warren Huntley Day in the State of Georgia, officially announced on the steps of the State Capital. Those both were pretty emotionally charged, proud moments…being seen for what simply doing what I love to do!
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I love any and all books regarding entertaining and design. Anything that gives me inspiration and motivation.Coffee Table books are my favorite! Not just event design but interior design as well as architecture. Growing up, those were all of the things that intrigued me, long before I knew that it would eventually become my calling. Our business is all about presentation and creating experiences and a picture (not how-to instructions) are what motivates me. I learned how to design, cook, and create, all from looking and watching and not by instruction or actively being taught. So those kinds of things are captivating to me.
Definitely not a pinterest person. I love getting inspired from actually seeing or feeling in person elements or specific back stories rather than from just a collection of random thoughts and ideas posted together on an app.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.whpatlanta.com
- Instagram: @whpatlanta
- Facebook: Warren Huntley
Image Credits
Inije Photography
Sean Carson Photography
