Meet Lotoya Vongrechin | Event and Wedding Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lotoya Vongrechin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lotoya, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor behind the success of my brand V Agency as an event and wedding production company for 16 years is our ability to serve our clients. My team and I have a relentless commitment to personalization and attention to detail. Every event is unique, and we approach it with fresh eyes and a bespoke plan. We don’t just create events; we craft experiences that resonate deeply with our clients and their guests. This approach has not only garnered us a loyal client base but also has helped in establishing our brand as a synonym for quality and exclusivity in the events industry. Furthermore, our capacity to seamlessly adapt to changing trends, economic shifts, and cultural evolutions, all while upholding a high standard of service, has been key to our enduring success

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At V Agency, I’ve steered our focus beyond just producing events; we’re dedicated to creating immersive experiences and tackling new challenges head-on. My team and I are shaped by our commitment to innovation and personalization, as seen in our latest endeavor, Genuu. This exciting platform, which I’m particularly proud of, revolutionizes wedding planning by integrating financial tools to help couples create realistic wedding budgets that reflect their financial situations.

My journey to where I am today with V Agency wasn’t straightforward. The event planning industry is complex and full of challenges. I’ve navigated these through continuous adaptation, learning, and a steadfast commitment to our vision. Each challenge has been a chance to grow and refine our methods, teaching me invaluable lessons about resilience, the importance of client relationships, and the need to continually evolve with the industry.

One critical lesson I’ve learned is the significance of listening to our clients. By understanding their needs, dreams, and limitations, I’ve been able to offer more customized and meaningful experiences. This client-centric approach has been crucial to our business model and a significant factor in our sustained success.

I want the world to know that V Agency is more than just an event planning company. We are creators of memorable experiences and pioneers in addressing complex issues. Our story is one of passion, perseverance, and an earnest desire to transform every event into a cherished memory. With Genuu and our continued efforts, we aim to redefine the standards in event planning, making dream weddings and events not just desirable but realistically attainable, in line with personal financial circumstances.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d ensure they get a true experience of my home town Detroit, Michigan. It would be filled all my favorite places with a perfect blend of excitement, relaxation, and local charm. Here’s my itinerary:

Day 1: Welcome and Exploring Detroit’s Flavors
Morning: Begin the day at Avalon International Breads in Midtown, known for its artisanal breads and pastries. A perfect spot for a delicious, locally-sourced breakfast.
Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing walk along the Detroit Riverwalk, experiencing the beautiful waterfront and city skyline.
Evening: Savor authentic Greek cuisine at Pegasus Taverna in Greektown, and then take a leisurely stroll around the bustling Greektown area to experience its vibrant energy.

Day 2: A Day of Music and Culture
Morning: Start the day with a visit to the Motown Museum, an iconic Detroit attraction that celebrates the legacy of the music that shook the world.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at Lafayette Coney Island for a taste of Detroit’s famous Coney dogs, and then explore the vibrant Eastern Market.
Evening: Experience an authentic live performance at Baker’s Keyboard Lounge, the world’s oldest jazz club, offering a cozy atmosphere and fantastic music.

Day 3: Exploring Belle Isle Park, A Unique Island Experience
All Day: Head to Belle Isle Park, the only island park in the world. It offers a rich blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Spend the day exploring the park’s attractions like the aquarium and conservatory. Enhance the experience with some fitness activities, like walking and biking along scenic paths.
Lunch: Enjoy a picnic with quintessential Detroit delicacies from Lou’s Deli – their famous sandwiches, Better Made chips, and a classic Faygo Pop.
Evening: For dinner, visit a beloved Detroit dive bar with great food, such as Nancy Whiskey. It’s the perfect spot to experience the city’s authentic and unpretentious culinary scene.

Day 4: Urban Art and Classic Dining
Morning: Start the day with a hearty brunch at Kuzzo’s Chicken & Waffles. Their signature dish is a must-try, perfectly combining sweet and savory flavors.
Afternoon: Embark on a tour to explore Detroit’s vibrant street art scene. The city is renowned for its graffiti walls, which are not only visually stunning but also tell stories of the city’s culture and history.
Evening: Conclude the day with a sophisticated dinner at The London Chop House. This legendary Detroit restaurant offers a classic dining experience, known for its exquisite steaks and elegant ambiance.

Day 5: Historic Homes and Heritage
All Day: Embark on a historic home tour in Detroit. Visit neighborhoods like Boston-Edison, Indian Village, and Palmer Woods, each boasting unique architectural gems from the early 20th century. These homes reflect the city’s rich history and the lives of its once-prominent residents.
Afternoon: Visit the Guardian Building and the Fisher Building, architectural marvels of Detroit.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Takoi, a trendy Thai-inspired restaurant, offering a modern dining experience that contrasts nicely with the day’s historic theme.

Day 6: Hidden Gems and Creative Detroit
Morning: Start the day at Honest John’s for a relaxed breakfast. This spot is known for its laid-back vibe and hearty meals, a true hidden gem of Detroit.
Afternoon: First, visit Pewabic Pottery, a studio that’s been a part of Detroit’s artistic heritage since 1903. Engage in pottery making and explore their beautiful works. Then, head over to The Parade Company for a tour to see the giant floats that are featured in America’s Thanksgiving Parade, offering a unique behind-the-scenes look.
Evening: Cap off the day with dinner at Buddy’s Pizza on Conant, home of the original Detroit-style pizza. It’s the perfect way to experience one of Detroit’s most iconic culinary delights.

Day 7: Relaxing Farewell to Detroit
Morning: Breakfast at Detroit Institute of Bagels. Indulge in their famous bagels and the best latke fries on the planet
Afternoon: Visit to The Schvitz Health Club for a relaxing experience in their renowned salt baths. It’s an ideal way to unwind and reflect on the adventures of the past week.
Evening: Finish with a farewell dinner at The Highlands Detroit. This venue is celebrated for its breathtaking views of the city, providing a perfect backdrop to appreciate Detroit’s beauty and to reminisce about your memorable time in the city.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Success is truly a communal journey, and my deepest gratitude goes to my VILLAGE – a remarkable group of individuals. Their endless support, from providing resources to valuable introductions, to simply listening and their unwavering belief in my dreams, have been fundamental in every step of my journey. This shoutout is a tribute to their collective effort and the pivotal role they’ve played in my story.

Website: https://www.vagencyevents.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vagencyevents/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lotoyavongrechin/

Other: https://genuu.com/

Image Credits
Jenna Borst Photography Ami Williams Photography Mallory Tahy Photography