Today we’d like to introduce you to Maxine Baptiste.
Maxine, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
If you told me 10 years ago that I would reside in the United States of America owner of wedding/events venue(s) and an events planning firm – I would tell you that’s obviously an error and a cold case of mistaken identity. However fast forward to today – here I am! I visited Atlanta with a bunch of girlfriends one summer and returned home and packed my bags! The experience was wonderful and I wanted to be here.
Born and raised in Toronto, Canada, I always knew that I wanted to be an entrepreneur but had no idea to what capacity. Growing up – I was typically the “go to” person whenever my friends and colleagues were planning social affairs, but I had no clue that it would play such a pivotal role in my life today.
I attended University to appease my mother but she knew a corporate career was not my destiny. I did successfully work for a couple of Fortune 500 companies in leadership roles but after years of unhappiness, I decided to go for it.
I have to pause right here because it was such a struggle, deciding if I should leave the certainty of a salary to start my own business. So I chickened out and decided to do both. It was torture.
I worked my 9-5pm job and worked events on weekends and evenings. It was taking a toll on my family including myself but the opportunities continued to flow in so I just knew I was on to something!
My first events company was (Servers Only Inc.) still open today; providing wait staff and bartenders for area venues and private home events. Out of this experience; The Max.B Group was formed specializing in wedding planning and venue management. By this point, it was time to say ‘good-bye’ to corporate America, the juggling act was over.
At the Max.B Group LLC, alongside wedding planning, we work with “Start Up” new venue owners, educating them on strategic methods to grow their business and increase awareness regarding their brand. Little did I know the venue management experience was gearing me up for my next opportunity; ‘Occasions On Main’.
This year; I purchased my own venue (about 7 months now), named “Occasions On Main”. As soon as we opened our doors – the weddings and events came flowing in.
My husband of 10 years, son and daughter are the core of my team but all would not be possible without the friends and top-notch vendors that make things happen each week.
Occasions On Main was built in 1852 (registered as a historic landmark) initially opened as a bank, merchant store in the 1900’s and in early 2000 it was a print shop for a moment but sat dormant for years.
This building sat on the market for 3 long years until my husband literally stumbled upon it. It was waiting for me (my mother often says; since 1852)!!!
As soon as you walk into the double glass doors, you will instantly fall in love with the vintage, original wood floors, 20 feet high beaded ceilings adjourned with 3 tiered dazzling crystal chandeliers and ceiling to floor draping.
The rich details overtakes you and we would love to host your wedding or next special event.
We’re finally on Google – look us up- we look forward to meeting you.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
My journey to where I am today is identical to the weather. There has been different seasons. Just like spring, summer, fall and winter there has been bumps in the road but I knew as the seasons – things would change.
Occasions On Main – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
The surprise element of who we are and where we are, sets us apart. When we see a potential client’s face when they walk in our venue doors – the only word to describe their reaction is ‘priceless’. We’re told the ambiance is so inviting and warm they never want to leave the tour.
We’re in Dekalb County going towards Conyers in the historic downtown District of the City of Lithonia. Only a population of 2200 residents – it is such a delight when our clients or area residents enjoy their time at Occasions On Main.
We’re known for our stellar trademark service because we understand there are many options for events venue, so when you choose us – we don’t take it for granted and we’re sincerely grateful.
We specialize in a ‘stress-free’ all-inclusive experience for weddings, milestone events and corporate functions.
We have two event spaces, our smaller room named the “T.B Reflection Room” (after my daughter) hosts entrepreneurs who need a professional atmosphere to meet their clients or conduct business.
We offer hourly rates so there’s no pressure to commit to a long term rental agreement. I love providing this service because I remember the days when I was starting my events business – I did interviews at a local coffee shop but would’ve definitely preferred an enclosed, affordable professional environment.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success to me is what I’m living now. When a bride walks into the room, with tears rolling down her eyes – that’s success. When I see my family after a long weekend of events and they run into my arms – that’s success.
The feeling is what I live for and when I no longer have that feeling – I am no longer successful.
I believe there are many stages of success and at this stage even though I’m still growing, I am succeeding at the same time. My setbacks are successes because it pushes me to keep dreaming – and dream big!
Contact Info:
- Address: 6957 Main St. Lithonia GA 30058
- Website: www.occasionsonmain.com
- Phone: 678-201-6681
- Email: hello@occasionsonmain.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/occasionsonmain
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/occasionsonmain
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/occasionsonmain
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/occasions-on-main-lithonia
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
