Conversations with Kathy Heilman

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathy Heilman.

Hi Kathy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started planning and managing events 30 years ago focusing mainly on hospitals, schools and charities. Eleven years ago, I joined Barnsley Resort in Corporate Sales and Catering. After a couple years, I was asked to become Director of Weddings, where I was responsible to grow the number or weddings along with creating memorable and authentic experiences for the brides. Over time, the number of weddings grew and the resort built an additional building which in turn increased the events even more. In February 2020, I made a dream come true and bought The Whitlock Inn in Marietta, GA. I know it was a crazy time with Covid 19 and there was so much uncertainty about the future of events, but I felt it was such a charming and historic venue that it would not just survive but thrive. Many of the events had to move their date during 2020 which was unfortunate but it gave me the opportunity to restore the interior and give it a fresh facelift. My goal was to maintain the historic beauty and charm of the iconic venue but give it a more modern and updated feel. Antique chandeliers, original fireplaces, hardwood floors and leaded windows all remain as a nod to the past. To add to the crazy year, in October of 2020, Sanctuary Estate in Cleveland, GA, came on the market and the Whitlock Inn now has a sister property. It’s an estate home and barn situated on 32 acres in the mountains. I intend to enhance the existing beauty and charm at this property as well. Although the past year has been uncertain and hard for everyone, I see bookings picking up and the enthusiasm has been restored. There is a real demand for celebration. I’m beyond excited for the future of The Whitlock Inn and her sister, Sanctuary Estate.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
No, it has not always been smooth or free of obstacles. Events are dependent on the economy and there have been many challenges over the past years that have impacted the livelihood of events. Additionally, I lived through some renovation and new construction in my previous jobs, which impacted the bride’s experience and that gave me a lot of growth opportunities to have some difficult conversations and ensure the clients were satisfied. The Wedding industry, in general, is demanding and it’s equally as hard to juggle the many details of executing multiple events at the same time or in a short period of time. It’s fast-paced and challenging and the client expects perfection. Our industry has to literally be picture perfect as the bride has a vision of her event and expects the end result to deliver. Instagram and Pinterest have definitely added to the demand for perfection. Also, I purchased my own property just a few weeks before Covid hit. I spent my first few days as owner of The Whitlock Inn, assisting brides with the uncertainty and helping them move their date. It’s rare for a wedding to move dates and almost all of them had to. It was a year like none other!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am currently a venue owner of two properties; The Whitlock Inn and Sanctuary Estate. We host weddings, special events, holiday parties and corporate meetings. I function best when there is a process in place. I believe in color coding and simplicity. My goal is to simplify every aspect that I represent to ensure the clients have a flawless and stress-free experience. I am most proud of owning my own venue because I can take all of my knowledge from my past experience and apply it. I’m a mother of 3 girls and I believe that allows me to relate to my clients and empathize with how they feel during the planning process. I put myself in my client’s shoes and strive to create the experience they envision.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
I would tell someone just starting out to ask a ton of questions and align yourself with leaders that you admire. If you are observant of their traits, you will see what makes them successful. Admit when you are wrong and be open to ideas. A true leader will guide you through every process and let you experience all the growth opportunities. Most importantly, do not be afraid to take a chance. If something pushes you out of your comfort zone, it will allow you to grow.

Pricing:

• Venue Fee – $5,000
• Ceremony Fee – $1,500

Contact Info:

• Email: kathy@whitlockinn.com
• Website: www.whitlockinn.com
• Instagram: @whitlockinn
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Whitlockinn/

Image Credits
Picture This Photography – @picturethis.atlanta Collection Furnishings – @collectionfurnishings Unique Floral Expressions – @ufebuckhead I Do Linens – @idolinens