Editor’s note: Answering The Purcell Register’s five questions this week is Gisela Wolfinbarger, owner of The Grand Canadian Theater.
Q: What got you interested in being a wedding venue?
A: I worked in the event business for 22 years. The last two years of that career I worked as a manager at a wedding venue and I learned I loved to serve others. I loved the “wow” factor as the client walked in.
Q: What piqued your interest in the Canadian Theater?
A: I searched in different towns for a building. I kept coming back to Purcell. The theater was Grand. It had history and I visioned all my ideas when I walked in. I love the space and the memories we create here.
Q: Was there a person or instance that got you interested?
A: When I was in my 20s I knew I wanted to own my own business. My husband said, “You should learn more about this business!” So I waited 20 more years and I knew it was time. The support of my family helped make it all come true.
Q: What is the most gratifying part of your job?
A: Oh, this is so hard. There are so many!
I just don’t provide a space. I provide my expertise. I love the connection with our families and with my couple. I love to decorate and make my couples’ daydream. I love the hugs and thank you’s at the end.
Q: What do you find the most challenging?
A: In his industry everything is a challenge. You have to be updated with the trends. You have to make sure you plan for unexpected things. It’s expensive to run a venue and every event is important to stay in this event business. Long hours, long nights working on details. It’s extremely hard to stay focused and dedicated but it is rewarding to own a venue.
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