Meet Taylor Austin and Jared Herrmann, two dedicated members of The Otesaga team whose passion for event planning ensures every gathering is a memorable experience. As our Catering & Events Managers, Taylor and Jared excel transforming visions into reality for a variety of occasions. Together, they embody the resort's commitment to gracious hospitality, collaborating seamlessly with all departments to create extraordinary events in the stunning lakeside setting of The Otesaga. Read on to learn more about Taylor and Jared!
What's your favorite part about working at The Otesaga?
Taylor: While there are many parts of The Otesaga that I love, the thing I look forward to most is weddings. It's an honor to be able to play a role in so many beautiful couples' special days. Jared: I take great joy in transforming a guest's vision into a reality and guiding them through every step of the planning process.
How do you collaborate with other departments at the resort to ensure a seamless event experience for guests?
Taylor: I'm a firm believer that I would not be able to do my job without other departments. Whether it be the front desk greeting our groups by name, the bell staff assisting with amenity deliveries, banquet staff executing exceptional service, the set-up team waking up early to make sure our meeting rooms hold The Otesaga Standard, or the housekeeping team making sure all of our guests feel comfortable. I love the way each department takes pride to achieve the same goal.
Jared: Our resort's motto is "gracious hospitality." I firmly believe that this motto should extend not only to our encounters with guests, but also, our interactions with each department. It is through careful and consistent communication that we are able to ensure a seamless event experience for our guests.
What advice would you give to someone planning an event at The Otesaga for the first time?
Taylor: Ask questions! Our job is to make your vision happen, there is so much our different departments are able to collaborate on to make almost any dream a reality. If you have an idea that you don't see in one of our packets-please ask how we can make it happen!
Jared: Place your trust in your event planner and enjoy the process. I strive to make the planning of an event just as enjoyable as the event itself. Whether it is a corporate function or a private celebration, I want all prospective guests to have the utmost confidence that The Otesaga holds their best interests at heart.
What trends are you seeing in events?
Taylor: As an avid animal lover, one of my favorite trends I have seen recently is incorporating pets into cocktail hour at weddings. It puts a smile on the guests and the staff's face to see a specialty drink named after a furry loved one!
Jared: With the resurgence of in-person events, I have noticed a newfound focus on building up guest engagement. Both corporate and private event coordinators are introducing gamified elements and activities to their events. This dynamic approach to event planning aims to increase guest engagement through interactive activities, resulting in a unique and memorable event experience.
How does the historic lakeside setting of The Otesaga enhance the events you help create?
Taylor: Otsego Lake is why people find us; they love the setting regardless if it is a wedding ceremony or a corporate retreat. Mother nature definitely makes "selling" the property a simple task. What keeps people coming back to us, however, is the exceptional service they receive while in such an "Eden" like location.
Jared: The pristine, lake frontage of The Otesaga Resort provides a stunning backdrop to all of our events, leaving guests enamored by its beauty. Additionally, the resort's lakeside location enhances the recreational amenities we can incorporate into our events. Allowing guests to explore the waters of Otsego lake through kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoe excursions.
In the hands of Taylor and Jared, every event at The Otesaga becomes a unique experience. Their shared dedication to excellence, attention to detail, and commitment to gracious hospitality ensure that each gathering not only meets but exceeds expectations. Whether you're planning a wedding, corporate retreat, or private celebration, Taylor and Jared are ready to turn your vision into a reality and create lasting memories for you and your guests. Contact us today to start planning!