Cyndy Paliga, VenueND Wedding Specialist
-
Tell us about yourself.
I am all about my family! I have been married for 29 years and have three amazing kids. My oldest son is a teacher in Denver, my daughter is a musician and songwriter, and my youngest is in college at Purdue.
-
How did you get your start?
I started in the airline industry as an Inflight Supervisor. I handled all of the red carper events, high-priority clients and charter flights for sports teams. My family also owned several restaurants and handled all of the catering and events for three banquet halls. We were so busy we were missing all of our kids’ sporting events. When our son took his team to the state championship as the quarterback, we decided we need to have our lives back, so we sold the restaurants. After my son left for college, I took the job at the Morris Inn at Notre Dame and I am currently in my fourth year of planning weddings and events on campus.
-
What is your favorite part of working with brides and grooms?
Getting to know each couple. I become a part of their family and I think of them as my kids. While I’m planning, it feels like I am planning for my own family. I love all of the special details, surprises and the wow factor as they see their vision come to life. I get to see their faces light up. I love when they come back to see me, or send me pictures on their first anniversary, or of their new babies. I am so blessed to be a part of their first steps in their new journey together.
-
How do you guide couples to the right wedding decisions for them?
I listen. Once I understand what they are looking for, then I can help point them in the right direction. It is easy to help them with specific needs once I know their vision and budget. This is a journey for both the bride and groom and it is important that both partner’s ideas and concerns are heard so that all expectations are agreed upon.
-
What are some of your favorite wedding staples?
I love the way chargers and mercury glass votive candles look on the tables. I also love late night snacks. If I had to pick a favorite late night station, it would be the Flambé Donut Station at the Morris Inn.
-
Do you have a favorite moment from your years of helping couples plan their weddings?
I have so many! Most of them are when the couples or their parents see the room for the first time – and their expressions. I also love hearing the stories from the night before at their farewell brunches.