Staff Spotlight: Laura Simiele, Sales Manager

Meet Laura, one of Mazzone Hospitality’s Sales Managers and talented event professionals. She is our Saratoga National Golf Club expert, but plans events at a variety of venues throughout the region. Join us in learning more about Laura in this special Staff Spotlight.

How did you get your start in hospitality/event planning?

Professionally, starting when I was in my teens helping organize events for The New York Thoroughbred Breeders here in Saratoga. Personally, I was always the friend hosting the sleepover, planning fun things to do, restaurants to explore, and coming up with any reason for a celebration.

Has there been a wedding or event you’ve planned that has really stuck with you? Why? ​

There have been a few! One of my all-time favorite events was a welcome party at a rooftop venue where we started with an intimate dinner for about 30. It ended with over 150 people, delicious food, so many laughs, fire pits, and gelato! ​

What current wedding trends are you loving? Or what do you think we’ll see a lot of this year?

Creative food presentations and lots of mixed metallics/textiles. Our clients are ready to build multi-sensory experiences for their guests and themselves. ​

What is your favorite part of planning events? ​

Building the experience for our clients! Every part of the process is special and adding all the small steps together creates something unique and memorable. 

Do you have any advice for couples currently planning a wedding? ​

You are going to encounter a lot of opinions along the way, keep your day about you! 

Tell us something fun about yourself! ​

I am a dog and horse mom of two lab rescues (Dunkin and Morgan) and an off-the-track Thoroughbred (RoRo).