Welcome to FACES of Marry Me NC! Behind every successful business is a FACE. And, let’s face it (pun intended), people want to do business with people, someone they can trust and personally connect with. We are thrilled to introduce YOU to these wedding professionals through this special Q&A blog series!
Meet Tabatha Renegar, Sales Manager at The Barn at Reynolda Village
Tell us about your wedding business.
The Barn at Reynolda Village event venue abounds with historic charm and is the perfect blend of clean, contemporary style paired with unique architecture. This is not your typical barn venue! Located in the heart of the Reynolda Historic District, The Barn at Reynolda Village and Reynolda Gardens are an ideal setting for weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate and social events.
How did you get started in the wedding industry, and what inspired you to specialize in your particular area of expertise?
My transition from customer service to wedding event sales was almost seamless. I was the director of guest services at the Children’s Museum which had event space for rent. I oversaw the sales of those events and three historic venues later, have never looked back! As a sales manager, my inspiration comes from the fact that I hear incredible stories and meet an amazing array of people.
What is the most unique or memorable wedding you have ever been a part of and what made it so special?
I’ll never forget the McCurry wedding at Old Salem. I was already obsessed with the mother-of-the-bride’s dress which was not your typical MOB dress! Then the bride’s father surprised his daughter with a song that he played and sang at the reception. From the caterers to the guests, there wasn’t a dry eye in the place!
Can you share a funny or heartwarming anecdote from one of your past weddings?
I recently assisted a bride with attaching a locket containing her late Mom’s photo to her wedding bouquet. It was a humbling and beautiful reminder that those we have loved and lost can still be a joyful part of our celebration and to never take their presence in our lives for granted.
What is one of the most NOT-so-funny things you have experienced at a wedding and how did you handle it?
A bride that was staying waaaaaaay past her allotted time to decorate for her wedding the next day. She was refusing to leave even though she was encroaching on another wedding that was about to be underway. I talked to her most calm and reasonable bridesmaids and asked for their assistance talking to the bride. Luckily, that did the trick!
What is your favorite part of working with couples on their wedding day, and why?
As a sales manager, my work is done after a couple goes to contract. But my favorite part of the sales process is asking about their engagement! I have heard the sweetest, funniest, and most memorable stories!
What are some current wedding trends or themes that you find most interesting or exciting?
Weekday weddings!! Less competition for getting the venue and the vendors couples want, budget-friendly, and guests love it! An excuse to celebrate midweek! I also adore a wedding dress with a little color or print to it. With pockets, of course!!
What advice would you give to couples who are just starting the wedding planning process?
Don’t. Take some time to just enjoy being engaged! Whether that’s a few weeks, a month or even longer, this season of your life will fly by so fast – take it in and start planning in earnest after enjoying the glow for a bit.
What are some common mistakes or pitfalls that couples should avoid when planning their wedding?
Thinking that there is such thing as a “day of” planner. There isn’t. You will never regret investing in a true planner to execute the vision of your dream day.
What is the most challenging aspect of your job, and how do you overcome it?
Scheduling site visits at a very busy venue! We never want to infringe on someone’s day so we don’t provide sales tours during events. Best solution ever: our virtual tour that couples can experience on their own or I can join them “live” inside The Barn and walk through it with them!
What do you enjoy doing in your free time when you’re not working on weddings?
Being outdoors and traveling! Give me my kayak, my hubs, my family, my dogs, a good book, add some sunshine and all is well!
You can view more gorgeous images of The Barn at Reynolda Village HERE!
Are you a wedding professional interested in being featured in FACES of MMNC? Email andrea@marrymenc.com for more information.
