Meet Terry Saxe | Special Event Consultant and Planner

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

Hi Terry, how do you define success?
One of the most impactful quotes that defines success to me is by Pam Houston “Success has less to do with the accumulation of things and more to do with an accumulation of moments, and that creating a successful life might be as simple as determining which moments are the most valuable, and seeing how many of those I can string together” “Moments of failure are important too….all those moments of struggling are important, not just to provide the contrast, but because they use different muscles. They let me know I’m alive in a whole different way” Therefore to me, success is not defined by how much money you make, but by what you do to positively impacts those around you. Financial success is a result of hard work, dedication, being aware of those around and surrounding yourself with like minded people. Many successful people have failed at many things but the key is to get up, dust yourself off and be determined to not give up.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
After having spent most of my career in the restaurant industry, I was afforded the opportunity to work for the top event planner in Atlanta who taught me that there was only one way to execute an event – perfection. Armed with a little knowledge and a lot of courage, I started my own company. The first wedding I ever did was frightening. I didn’t sleep for months prior to that date but having the trust of the client made it so much easier. I was a one man band and it was exhausting but I was determined. I only did 3 weddings in my first year and that was the scariest part. I had 2 young kids and I was doing it all but wasn’t about to give up. One day at a time, I built my brand by providing exemplary service which I truly believe, is the key to my success. The “family” of outstanding professionals with whom I work, are the backbone of my business and networking is a must. I am really proud that not only have I built a amazing reputation with clients, but that the vendors know that if I am involved in an event, no detail will have been missed. I treat everyone I work with with the same respect. Every single person I interact with, knows that I am honest, hardworking and appreciative of their role in the process. I have excellent assistants who have the same love for people that I do and know my work ethic. Being able to change plans at a moment’s notice is imperative, as is patience and kindness. The most important lesson learned is that, just like everything else in life, you reap what you sew. You get out what you put in and not to let fear be your boss. I never meet a stranger and never burn a bridge – you just never know where you will encounter your next client so always put your best face on no matter what else is going on in your life.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
First stop cocktails at the bar at Ecco in Midtown followed by dinner at Umi Sushi in Buckhead. A visit to Atlanta Botanical Gardens and a walk on the Atlanta Beltline have to be on the list of favorite things to do. Lunch and shopping at Ponce City Market. The Avalon also has some of the best restaurants and shops outside of the city. Scott’s Antique Market would be another favorite.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost my parents. My mom and dad were both successful in their own fields. My dad was a pharmacist, a naturopath, a chemist and and entrepreneur and always had a new idea he was working on. He never gave up at whatever he tried to do, whether it failed or not. He got up and started over. He was always approachable and there for me when I needed input or encouragement and always listened. My mom worked for a very prominent dress designer and her creativity eventually showed up in me when my career in hospitality evolved from restaurants, catering, hotels and finally in to wedding and social event consulting.My mom worked with my dad on his projects and in his business and taught me the true meaning of teamwork and support. Both my parents instilled strong work ethic, integrity and honesty in me and I would never be who I am today without their guidance.  And of course my 2 amazing sons, who  have given me the intense drive to succeed and be a positive role model the need to be kind and have compassion and who love me unconditionally .  Both of them have amazing work ethic and have made me proud to be their mom.

Website: www.terrysaxeevents.com
Instagram: @terrybsaxe, @instyleluv
Linkedin: Terry Saxe
Facebook: facebook.com/tspecialt.events/

Image Credits
Laura Stone Photography The Decisive Moment Photography