Kristina Guzman Photography
We are so excited to get a sneak peek into the life of The Inn at Blackstone’s Director of Sales & Events, Dianna Lester! If you didn’t get a chance to meet the lady behind the business at our Richmond Weddings Summer Show, you get a second chance. Dianna is telling us her inside scoop when it comes to all things wedding planning and how she got started in the industry. Keep reading to find out more!
Anna Kratoville Photography
If you care to share, how did you get to where you are now? What drew you to the wedding industry? I spent quite a few years working on a college campus managing events which included their wedding venue. Weddings were always my favorite to host, and I had the tendency to make fast friends with the bride – pretty much crying at every wedding when it was time for them to walk down the aisle. So, when I interviewed for the position here at the Inn – I fell completely in love with the venue and couldn’t turn down the chance to be a part of it.
What’s your favorite thing about working in the wedding industry? I love the “love story” – meeting each couple and getting to know them and their families, dogs included.
What’s a unique tip you tell your couples? Be sure to include your personalities and relationship memories in your wedding day.
What’s your best piece of advice for couples planning a wedding? Delegate as much as you can and enjoy every moment!
What advice would you give to someone just starting their own business? Stay organized and remember to ALWAYS set aside time for yourself. (Something I need to be more mindful of doing)
What are your favorite wedding trends right now? Intimate ceremonies, multi-color wedding dresses and statement aisles
What is your favorite ‘first dance’ song? The Way You Look Tonight
How do you de-stress? Binge watching movies or taking pictures
What’s a fun or unusual fact about you? I was invited to sing on Star Search when I was 19 or 20…basically a million years ago!!
Anna Kratoville Photography
Do you love to travel? If so, what are some must-see destinations or where to next? I’d love to travel – just never really had the opportunity. My list of places to go would include Australia, Ireland, England, Italy and pretty much any and every tropical location.
Do you have a pet? If so, what’s their name and what are they like? (be sure to send us a pics of them!) I have two pets – Maggie & Lola – Maggie is a sweetheart and is everyone’s favorite dog. Lola is deaf and has extreme anxiety, so she is challenging but I love her! She literally could fetch ball for hours!
Contact Dianna now!
Email: dlester@kalyanhospitality.com
Website: www.innatblackstone.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/innatblackstone/