Exploring Life & Business with Emily Tatum of Timbers on Etowah

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Tatum.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I started in the wedding industry as a photographer and spent about 10 years capturing weddings and special events. During that time, I had the opportunity to work alongside couples, families, planners, and vendors, which gave me a deep appreciation for the amount of work and care that goes into creating meaningful celebrations.

In 2023, I began coordinating weddings at Timbers on Etowah. As I became more involved in the day-to-day operations of the venue, I was offered the Venue Manager position. I spent over a year in that role, learning every aspect of the business, from client relations and event logistics to venue operations and team management.

When the opportunity arose to take over ownership and operations of the venue, my husband and I saw it as a chance to take everything we had learned and invest in something we truly believed in. It was definitely a leap of faith, but one we felt called to take.

What I enjoy most about this industry is the people. I love meeting individuals and families during such important milestones in their lives and helping create a space where they can celebrate those moments. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, fundraiser, or family gathering, it’s incredibly rewarding to play a small part in memories that people will cherish for years to come.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The biggest challenge was moving from being a wedding photographer, where I focused on one piece of the event, to managing an entire venue. There was a lot to learn about operations, staffing, and running a business behind the scenes. Then stepping into ownership brought an entirely new level of responsibility. There were definitely moments where I had to figure things out as I went, but those experiences helped me grow and gave me confidence in my ability to lead and solve problems.

As you know, we’re big fans of Timbers on Etowah . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
While we’re known for our weddings, what truly sets us apart is our versatility and our focus on the client experience. We work hard to make the planning process as smooth and stress-free as possible, offering guidance, flexibility, and personalized service from the first tour to the final farewell at the event.

One thing we’re especially proud of is the sense of community that exists at Timbers. We aren’t just renting out a building, we’re helping create memories. Every event is different, and we love getting to know our clients and helping bring their vision to life, whether that’s an intimate wedding, a large corporate gathering, or a fundraising event that benefits the community.

As owners, my husband and I are deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of the venue, which allows us to provide a hands-on, personal approach. We care about the details and genuinely want every client to feel supported throughout the planning process.

What I hope people know about our brand is that we’re committed to hospitality above all else. We want every guest, client, vendor, and team member who walks through our doors to feel welcomed, valued, and cared for. At the end of the day, we’re in the people business, and it’s an honor to play a role in some of the most important moments in our clients’ lives.

How do you think about happiness?
What makes me happiest is building relationships and being part of meaningful moments in people’s lives. One of the things I love most about owning an event venue is that every day is different and every event has a story behind it. Whether it’s a couple celebrating their wedding day, a family gathering for a milestone birthday, or a nonprofit hosting an event that supports an important cause, I get the opportunity to help create an experience that people will remember.

I also enjoy connecting with people. I love hearing their stories, learning about their vision, and helping bring it to life. Seeing months of planning come together and watching our clients enjoy their event with the people they care about is incredibly rewarding.

On a personal level, I’m happiest when I’m spending time with my family. My husband and I have four boys, and they keep life fun, busy, and full of adventure. Working together to build a business while raising our family has been one of the most rewarding experiences of our lives. Owning a business comes with challenges, but it’s incredibly fulfilling to know that we’re creating a place where memories are made, relationships are celebrated, and community is built. That’s what makes all the hard work worth it.

Pricing:

• Friday Rental: $4000
• Saturday Rental: $5500
• Sunday Rental: $3500
• Monday-Thursday morning Rental: $350/hour
• Monday-Thursday afternoon Rental: $400/hour

Contact Info:

• Website: https://timbersonetowah.com/
• Instagram: @timbers_on_etowah
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CxyyqPyNF/?mibextid=wwXIfr