A Hidden Gem Q&A: Customers come first at Holt event venue

Sometimes dreams get delayed as life marches on.

For Ernest and Carmen Tisdale, their grand plans of entrepreneurship and building something for themselves were put on the back burner for a full decade before an opportunity presented itself to purchase The Hidden Gem Event Venue, formerly Charlar Place, in Holt.

Tucked in a scenic setting off Cedar Street, The Hidden Gem lives up to its name — and the Tisdales and their extraordinary team have dedicated themselves to making special events for individuals, couples, families — and a large gathering of their closest friends.

When did you open The Hidden Gem Event Venue?

Jan. 31, 2020, just before COVID shut us down.

What amenities are offered at The Hidden Gem?

We are a full-service venue offering indoor and outdoor seating, in-house and off-site catering, bar services, and decorations.

How and why did you get into the event business?

It was a vision of ours to own our own venue when we were hunting for wedding venues for our own nuptials back in 2009. We wrote a business plan for it around that time, saved it on an old computer, and forgot about it until 2019 when we dug it back up and ran with it. We wanted to start a business. But, most importantly, we desired to build a legacy for our family.

With the season of engagements coming up with Valentine’s Day, why should people keep The Hidden Gem in mind for their special day?

Our No. 1 priority is customer service, and most of our clients would attest to that. Our full-service package options are intended to ease the burden for many brides and/or families seeking to simplify the planning portion of their special occasion. Our passion is service, and that is reflected in each of the services we offer.

What is the best part about your job?

The best part of the job is working with a team of kind, talented and multifaceted individuals ready to take on all the challenges in this industry. On top of that, we are blessed to be an integral part of the most memorable occasions in many people’s lives.

The Hidden Gem Event Venue is at 4230 Charlar Drive in Holt. For more information, visit thehiddengemvenue.com.