We recently had the chance to connect with Whitney Cobb and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Whitney, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
My day begins with a moment of calm—when my alarm goes off, I open my Bible app to read a scripture that sets a positive tone. Then, I check the weather to plan ahead. Next, it’s all about my daughter: getting her dressed and off to the bus before I start my own routine.
After that, I head to the local park for a three-mile walk, usually with Myron Golden on YouTube or a VenueRx podcast keeping me inspired and motivated. Returning home to start my day and settle into my home office. With some lofi beats playing softly in the background, I dive into all things The Ivy on the Plains, from planning events to fine-tuning details.
Lunch usually happens around 1 pm, but sometimes I get caught up and it’s closer to 2. When my daughter gets home from school, I greet her with open arms before jumping back into work. Dinner prep starts around 5 pm, and we eat together by 6, followed by some well-deserved downtime watching “Is It Cake?”—a favorite in our house!
By 8 pm, it’s bedtime prep for my daughter while I iron clothes for the next day. She’s tucked in by 9, and I take a moment for myself—showering, lighting a candle, and unwinding with a TV show while trying my best not to think about work. Lights out usually comes around 10:30 pm, ready to do it all again the next day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Whitney, an Emergency Medicine Physician Assistant and proud co-owner of The Ivy on the Plains. Seeking a creative outlet beyond the hospital walls, I found my passion in the wedding world after years of decorating with my mom. That passion blossomed into The Ivy on the Plains—a stunning wedding and event venue nestled on 32 acres in the charming town of White Plains, GA, just 90 minutes east of Atlanta and close to the gorgeous Lake Oconee.
What sets The Ivy apart is that it’s more than just a venue—it’s a full getaway experience. From the iconic bridge arching over the lake to on-site accommodations perfect for hosting your entire wedding party, family, and friends, we offer amenities like fishing, pools, and cozy fire pits. It’s the ideal spot for couples wanting to celebrate their love over a whole weekend, not just one day.
People are always surprised to learn I balance this with my role saving lives at a Level 1 trauma center—two very different worlds, but both deeply rewarding.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
Without a doubt, my parents. I remember my freshman year as a Biology Pre-Medicine major — and struggling hard. Being a first-generation college student from a small town, I had big dreams of becoming a physician, but those dreams started feeling like they might slip away as I struggled to keep up with the core classes. My advisor even encouraged me to change my major, and I did.
But when I told my parents, my mom immediately insisted I change it back because she knew me better than anyone — she believed in my strength and determination more than any professor did. My dad reminded me how he’d often find me buried in books, studying late into the night before heading to work — a testament to my hard work and commitment.
That foundation of unwavering support gave me the courage to boldly pursue my goals. Even when I doubted myself, I knew my parents believed in me — and that belief carried me forward.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
I love the saying, “Character is built in the journey.” Life has thrown plenty of challenges my way, but the biggest was definitely my divorce. I remember venting to my cousin, asking, “Why is this happening to me?” She replied, “Nothing is happening to you — it’s happening for you.” That perspective shift was powerful.
Later, during another tough moment, my sister challenged me to change how I viewed my circumstances. That advice was exactly what I needed. Since then, I’ve lived by the philosophy that I don’t lose — I either win or learn a lesson.
Even when things got hard, I grew. I became more knowledgeable about everything from flipping homes to building a business and starting a nonprofit because I trusted the process and embraced the journey, knowing every step was shaping who I am today.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely. One thing I truly value is that I don’t have to put on a persona or keep up appearances. I show up as my genuine, authentic self in every part of my life.
I’m a multifaceted woman from a small town, a jack of many trades who loves saving lives as much as I love being part of people’s most special moments — like their weddings. And beyond all of that, I cherish the simple joys: spending time with my family and friends who know me best and keep me grounded. That realness is who I am, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
When it’s all said and done, I hope people remember the impact I’ve had on others. I take deep pride in giving back to my community. When I launched my nonprofit — dedicated to nurturing the next generation of minority professionals — I started it in the very hometown that shaped me.
In business, of course profit matters, but what truly fulfills me is knowing I can change lives. Whether it’s through the families who find employment with me, or those who find a place to call home, my greatest success will always be measured by the lives I’ve touched, not just the revenue I’ve earned.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://theivyontheplains.com
- Instagram: https;//instagram.com/theivyontheplains
- Facebook: https://facebook/theivyontheplains.com
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheIvyonthePlains
Image Credits
Personal photo: Farrahn T Photography
Bridge Photo with no one: Caroline Stephens Photography
Couple in front of Pergola: Perfect Us Photo
Pool Photo: Jam & Co Studios
Couple with Bridge: Focal Muse Photography
Table Decor: Andre Brown Photography
Barn Photo: Filmtastic Films Productions
Black and White Sparkler Photo: Whitney Bre Photography
