Today we’d like to introduce you to Athena Parker.
Hi Athena, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started out as a volunteer for the Tribeca Film festival in New York, Which is where I am from. I also volunteered my services to some New York comedians, Wil Sylvince, Capone and Talent which allowed me to work on my craft. I hustled and got to know the ins and outs to assisting and one day I came across this book by Bonnie Low-Kramen that was titled Be The Ultimate Assistant. This book changed my life and taught me all I needed to know about celebrity assisting, I was so intrigued that I reached out to the Author Bonnie who was actually the Celebrity assistant to the Legendary Olympia Dukakis, Bonnie took the time to help me, and she even became my mentor. I took all she taught me and one day while working Rip the Runway in NY, I bumped into the Manager of the group Day 26 of Making the Band. I asked him if the guys needed an assistant and that was it!! The start of my career, I have been working for the group off and on for over 18 years and I have assisted other celebrities in NY and Atlanta.
I have always loved the entertainment industry and I have a passion for assisting , I have learned so much and I love to share and help others, so I know there was more I needed and wanted to do, I decided years ago I wanted to start my own personal assisting company and that is what I did in January of this year. I lost my job back in November and I have not been able to find anything, so I prayed to God to guide me and here I am now with Parker Van Agency LLC. My company is just starting, and I am now in the process of looking for and vetting new clients. I commit to my clients and I provide personality, Professionalism and confidentiality. I am proud to be starting this venture and so excited to see where it goes. I also am working on Etiquette of Entertainment, Where I teach others how to carry themselves in the entertainment industry and how to move with grace and excellence.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
This has definitely not been a smooth road; I have come across so many struggles from being a single mom and losing my home to figuring out how would I make it work. I am a strong believer in God and I have so much Faith, I believe in myself, and I always know that whatever I am going through is God preparing me for greatness. I honestly believe and feel that my time is coming. I just want to be my best self and be a wonderful mom to my 11-year-old daughter.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I I’m a seasoned personal and celebrity assistant with over 25 years of experience in office management, hospitality, and administrative support — including 15+ years in the entertainment industry. Throughout my career, I’ve built a reputation for being the go-to person who keeps things running seamlessly behind the scenes, whether I’m coordinating with high-profile clients or managing day-to-day operations with discretion and excellence.
I specialize in luxury service, organization, and relationship management, bringing warmth and professionalism to every interaction. I’m known for my ability to anticipate needs before they’re spoken — a skill that comes from years of supporting executives, talent, and entrepreneurs with both grace and grit.
What I’m most proud of is how I’ve evolved beyond the traditional assistant role to become a trusted partner and problem solver — someone who creates calm and structure in fast-paced environments.
What sets me apart is my blend of experience, personality, and passion. I’m a natural connector, detail-oriented, and confident under pressure — but also approachable and grounded. Beyond my professional work, I’m building my own lane as a lifestyle influencer for the 50+ crowd, inspiring others to reinvent themselves at any age with style and purpose.
How do you think about luck?
I wouldn’t say luck has played a role in my journey — I believe in divine timing and preparation. Every experience, whether good or challenging, has shaped my growth and sharpened my purpose. I’ve learned that when you do the work, stay grateful, and stay open, doors have a way of opening exactly when they’re supposed to.
Pricing:
- Bronze Package – Essential Support Ideal for busy professionals who need light assistance. Price: $1000/month (or $30/hour) Includes up to 20 hours/month of support
- Silver Package – Lifestyle Management Perfect for clients needing consistent, reliable support. Price: $1500/month (or $28/hour) Includes up to 30 hours/month of support
- Gold Package – Premium Concierge & Personal Support Designed for high-profile clients who need seamless, luxury-level service. Price: $2000/month (or $25/hour) Includes up to 65 hours/month of support
- Add-On Services (a la carte) • Additional hours: $35/hour (Bronze/Silver), $30/hour (Gold) • Holiday/event planning packages (priced per event) • Relocation/move coordination (flat fee depending on scope
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealparkervan/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/athena-parker-a0233310/
Image Credits
Day 26
