It’s Spotlight Day, where we introduce you to Susie LeFils of Diamond L Venue and the stories behind the company.
How long would you say you’ve been doing what you do today?
We opened our venue in November of 2017. Our family has lived on this property in Volusia County since the 1940s.
How did your work evolve to get you to where you are today?
Since the family farm was begun in the 1940s, raising cattle and harvesting timber has been a part of our heritage. When the hurricanes 15 years ago, our family farm evolved around our property naturally clearing timber to make way for pastures near our home allowing us to bring our herd near our home. With cattle come tractors and trailers to work the fields, so we began our idea as a barn to shelter our equipment with indoor space for family gatherings. With Agritourism we’ve been allowed to supplant our cattle business by renting our indoor barn for weddings. Thus the Venue side of the Diamond L Cattle Ranch was born.
Tell us about your most memorable event so far and why it was.
There have been nearly 200 events since our opening and all have been memorable, but one wedding stands out above all. The bride and groom rented a horse and carriage to escort them around the property and pose for pictures with their family and friends following the ceremony. They were a lovely couple that was rewarded with perfect weather to enjoy the fire pit, the outdoor breezeway, and celebrate in the barn hall in style highlighted by their royal blue accents.
What motivates you to do this every day?
I love meeting my clients, hearing their love story, and showing them our barn venue. The look on their faces when we go inside makes my heart race each time. When they smile and say this is what I’ve been looking for, I’m as excited as they are to book their wedding day.
What fun-fact would people be surprised to learn about you?
I’m a total people person. After recently retiring from being a school teacher after 35 years, I began thinking about what was next for me. In college, I was my sorority Social Chairman. I’ve loved planning parties for my friends and family since college, so this has been a natural fit for me. Funny when I was a child, I always dreamed of being a wedding planner as my friend and I staged weddings on a daily basis with our Barbie dolls. One time I convinced my grandmas to attend in their wedding attire!
What is the most unique service/product you offer?
Our barn is smoke-free and smells fresh from the wood inside cut from our family farm. It’s climate-controlled and always comfortable.
What makes your business stand out from others in your category?
We are an authentic cattle ranch. Upon your visit, you will see first hand a cow-calf cattle operation surrounding the barn venue. Monday through Friday you will see tractors and trailers parked in the breezeway being protected from the elements. On the weekends, we evolve into your dream come true venue. You’re allowed to see your vision of a ceremony spot since you get to pick your place weeks before your wedding. This is not a cookie-cutter venue with 1-2 options. Couples love finding their spot unique to their desires.
Tell us about your ideal client.
My ideal client comes in with a smile ready to respect our farm and property. They are eager to see all I have to show them and always leave with a hug from me after joining the Diamond L Family.
Why do you think your business is successful?
We are successful because we work with our clients to make their dreams come true. I love what I do and it shows.
The best piece of advice for brides or grooms.
Do your research and check out lots of venues that meet your style. Then schedule 3-4 tours. Book in advance, if you have a particular date in mind. Ask questions of your venue, not just the canned ones on the wedding sites. Write the venue back, don’t leave them hanging.
What current trends have you seen at weddings that you personally like the most?
Sweetheart tables are the most popular overhead tables. Brides surprising the groom without first looks.
What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about your venue category?
All barns are not real. There are a lot of posers out there that are cute but not authentic. Look for authenticity if you want a real barn experience.
Here is what some previous couples had to say…
“We can’t thank you enough for not only the amazing hospitality but for making our day as magical as ever! Thank you and your family for everything!” – Kimberly & Craig
“Thank you for everything that you and your staff have done to make our wedding day spectacular. Your venue enhanced our wedding day making it an event beyond our vision. Thank you again and we’re looking to using your venue again.” – Dan’Elle & Lennox
“Thank you so much for providing such a beautiful venue for our big day! We are very grateful for everything you did to help us prepare and for your help on the wedding day. We appreciate everything, thank you!” – Haley & Aidan
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