Manager Spotlight: Devon
This week on our Manager Spotlight Series, we’re chatting with Devon McLeod, an onsite manager in New York! Devon is energetic, hilarious, thoughtful, the biggest cheerleader and the sweetest soul! Learn more about her below:
Hi friends! I'm Devon, a manager in New York City and resident of the magnificent borough of Brooklyn! I'm from Auburn NY, the chosen free home of Harriet Tubman!
What was the path that led you to The Get Together Events?
I met our fearless leader Lauren S at the New York City Ballet where I worked in Development at the time. She is often hired to do the logistics for their Galas so I got to see her in all her boss queen glory and I knew I had to work with her! When she mentioned she was looking for new managers to do weddings for TGT, I asked her to sign me up. Thennn COVID hit. WOMP WOMP. It was about a year and half until I got to do my first wedding, but the wait was SO worth it.
What is your favorite moment of the wedding?
My favorite moment of a wedding is just before the bride goes down the aisle and we are standing there with whoever her escort is. As managers, we always have them take one last deeeep breath and savor the moment before they go. Seeing that look of "Wow. This is really happening." in a bride's eyes makes my heart burst every time and I feel so lucky to witness it!
Most useful item in your supply kit?
Either lighters (candles LOVE to go out throughout the night) or duct tape!
What's your favorite dance floor song?
September by Earth Wind and Fire. No one can stand still to that song and it just embodies pure joy to me!
Where can we find you the day after a wedding?
Being as horizontal as possible! Usually the day consists of sleeping in, taking a very long hot bath, then laying on my couch and watching TV with a glass of wine and some yummy takeout
What is the greatest compliment you’ve ever received?
At a wedding, a bridesmaid told me "you make all of this look so easy, you're like a fairy godmother!" and I think that's the best thing to hear as a wedding manager. I try to bring a little magic to the day so being called a fairy godmother made me feel giddy.
What do you love to do on weekends when you're not working?
I love spending time with my people! Whether it's hanging out at home with my roommate or trying new restaurants with friends. The activity doesn't really matter, it's more about the company for me.
Any recent cause for celebration?
It was a few months ago now but my best friend of over 20 years got engaged! I was in on the surprise and knew for months that it was coming so keeping her off the scent was really hard. Getting the text with the ring on her finger was one of the best moments of my life. Of course, I've already started advocating for the importance of a wedding coordinator!!
An accomplishment you are most proud of?
This isn't just one accomplishment but sometimes I have to remind myself that what I'm doing now was childhood me's dream. I'm living in New York City, I graduated from NYU where I wanted to attend since I was 5, I am continuing to challenge myself in my career. I'm living my dream and I really try to sit in that from time to time!
Favorite TV show you binged?
Oooh I don't think I can pick just one! Top three would be Schitt's Creek, Madam Secretary, and Fleabag.
Any advice for future clients?
I heard another one of our amazing managers say this to a client and I loved it: YOU are the celebrity of your wedding! Enjoy being the star and having people who are all there to support you. There is nothing wrong with not lifting a finger all day and letting your wedding party, family, and of course wedding coordinator take care of you all day . You did all the hard work getting to this day, now you just get to soak it all up!!