Today we’d like to introduce you to Kayli Coleman.
Hi Kayli, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
The story of our family business involves a water-ski instructor in the ’70s in Miami Beach, and a girl visiting from NY wanting to learn… Many moons later, those two started Dave’s Ski School and somewhere along the lines had me! Thousands of students and a decade later, the events of 9/11 brought business to a halt. With 3 little mouths to feed, they needed to diversify and that is when our wedding venue, Paradise Cove, was born!
When I reflect on my personal journey, everything seemed to have led me to a career in Event Planning at Paradise. I love the outdoors, the water, the natural beauty of Florida. I’m passionate about the family business; especially the hard work and the dedication it takes to lead it to success… and as my friends know, I always love to throw a good party!
Growing up, I was desperate to be involved in the family business. As a kid, I would sell sodas at the end of the dock to our waterskiing guests (I had a whole skit with my dad who was in the water instructing!). As I grew older, I would run the register and front office with my mother. After school, I would ask to come in even just for the few last hours of the day, and even if it was just to put a fresh coat of paint on the place when we were slow. I was obsessed!
For college, I didn’t want to go far because I still wanted to work. Rollins College was my first and really my only choice. I was accepted into the business program and loved every second of it. I then decided to ‘fly the coop’ and worked for a short time in Capital Management. It just wasn’t for me. I remember feeling a little lost and meeting with one of my professors (Shout out to Dr. Sardy!). Our short meeting had monumental influence on my life. He put things in perspective for me and showed me that my heart was at Paradise Cove. I needed to go back.
In 2011, I joined the team as a Wedding Coordinator, and I LOVED it. I know lead our team as the Director of Events. As much as I am truly passionate about being a part of a couple’s day, (by the way, Love is Love and we have ALWAYS been accepting of all couples!), if there was a spare date, that meant I also had room to play! Any opening meant I could plan an open house, a fashion show, an exclusive dinner party, a charity event, or even just a styled shoot. I live, breathe and dream events! I am also proud that Paradise Cove has been named the “Best Wedding Venue” in Orlando by multiple outlets, as well as being included as one of the “Most Breathtaking Venues in the World!” by the Venue Report.
I’d also like to note that the aforementioned two other “little mouths to feed” are my two sisters, Ashley & Courtney. Growing up, my father always said that his dream was to have all three girls running the business. Well, his wish came true!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
To run a successful business over 30-years, you need to evolve as the world around you evolves. I can’t take the credit here as this would go to my parents, Dave & Andrea. They’ve been through devastating hurricanes, an economic depression, and a complete change to the tourism market after the horrifying acts of 9/11. Watching them survive these challenges motivated me to keep our business alive during the global pandemic. Finding the balance of survival while also providing confidence and clarity to our couples was not only challenging from a business standpoint but emotionally taxing. The experience was a lesson in staying calm and continuing to make ethical choices, even while the world around you is unraveling.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Paradise Cove?
Just beyond the Orlando happenings, Paradise Cove has unlocked a hidden oasis on the quiet shores of Lake Bryan.
Our Wedding & Event Venue is adorned with lush cypress trees and twinkle lights on a peaceful, tideless lake. Enjoy the serenity of the waters behind you while you tie the knot, then let us rock your party just steps away under our grand pavilion! Some fun features include a boat entrance for the guest of honor (a unique way to arrive to your ceremony!), a firepit on the beach, and our Boho-themed food truck! Did you know we also have a partnership for your own personalized fireworks show?
Daytime activities – During the day we operate as Buena Vista Watersports; a recreational water sports facility that is open to the public for wakeboard lessons, pontoon boat rentals, paddleboarding, and jet skis. Join us for a fun day on the water! As we shut down for private events, reservations are required, and they can be made at www.bvwatersports.com. These activities are also a fun way to get your guests on the water for a corporate event or company picnic!
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
They say that you are who you surround yourself with. If you are passionate about a field and looking for a mentor, surround yourself by people that have similar interests. Join an Entrepreneurial Club, look on social media for groups, go out of your way to talk to people that work in the industry you want to be a part of. Connecting with people is the best form of marketing yourself.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.paradisecoveorlando.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/paradisecoveorlando
- Facebook: facebook.com/paradisecoveorlando
