Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanya Schilling.
Hi Tanya, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
The genesis of Goen South was as a “mom-and-pop” company. In 1992, Morris was working as a newspaper photojournalist and Terry was a microbiologist for the state. They knew that, eventually, they wanted children and saw that neither of their current positions would guarantee financial success. If they were going to be able to support future kids, they needed to opt for a path in life in which to provide for their family. They both loved what they did, but wanted their children to experience even more freedom than their parents had been able to provide for them.
Terry spent weekends and nights back in the classroom to get her MBA while Morris started freelancing photography. Morris has always had an artist’s heart and he loved to travel the back roads of Texas documenting disappearing Texas history. He held an art exhibit at the restaurant of some friends. A young engaged couple, Anthony and Sandi, were impressed by the exhibit and saw that Morris could produce something totally extraordinary for their wedding photos. Morris and Terry met with them and made it very clear they did not know the nuances of wedding photography. The couple said, “Just shoot it like your art.” The results were unique, the bride and groom were delighted, and there began to be many more calls for Morris’s artistic talents.
Realizing that San Antonio was suffering from a lack of an event management company that offered all wedding services under one roof, Morris and Terry soon added videography, wedding planning and floral services to the company. As time progressed, they recognized a similar need for linens and lighting and it was not long before they were coordinating and producing weddings at some of the most beautiful resorts and hotels in town. The hotel sales staff were impressed with the designs and began asking them to provide services for their corporate clients. That was the beginning of Goen South’s company story, and the rest, as they say, is history.
As proud 5th generation Texans, our owners (who still come into the office every day) and team strive to share the unique beauty of the Lone Star State with others. Slowly but surely, we amassed a collection of unique decor, grew our wonderful team, and created strong relationships with local vendors. Today, with more than 30 years in the event industry, Goen South offers DMC services, including event coordination and planning, transportation, logistics, event decor and design, music, entertainment, photography and videography, local experiences and dine-arounds, team-building activities, and more.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
During hard economic times and recessions, Morris and Terry quit taking salaries so the company could make payroll for our employees and went through their kids’ college savings and then their retirements to pay our vendors and help keep the company afloat. They had faith that sooner or later the country would make an economic comeback, and were determined to hold on until it did. They believed in the company and were determined to make it.
When COVID hit, all our sales staff had to be laid off and operations staff reduced down to bare bones. We went through some hard and scary times; then slowly but surely, the economy began to turn around. In time, business in our industry was booming again, and our company was again growing at a rate that amazed us. We knew then that our tenacity had paid off and the sacrifices we had made were worth it.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
What sets Goen South DMC apart is that we provide the services of a traditional DMC, all in-house. We’re a vertically integrated company, which means you get more bang for your buck, along with the confidence that our team will plan and execute your event in a seamless way. We aren’t middlemen; we’re able to offer so much more than our competitors thanks to our massive 32,000 square foot warehouse full of event rentals and one-of-a kind decor. With that said, Goen South DMC is still a mom-and-pop, boutique company at heart. Whether you’re planning an event or conference for 20 or 20,000, the Goen South DMC team has your back. Our team of skilled event professionals will be there for you every step of the way, from the first phone call to long after the last guest has left.
We are known for our authentic western decor and fresh take on themed events, focusing on creating scalable designs and decor for each client. We pride ourselves in customizing each event and providing top-tier support, from sales to the end result. Our sales team handles each event from its inception to completion, without transitioning from one team to the other. The same person our clients talk to on their initial call is the same person who is at the event, ensuring a successful and fun time.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
With years of event planning experience, our team is made up of expert problem-solvers who are prepared for anything and can pivot quickly to accommodate last minute changes and requests. This capability is further supported by our amazing Operations team and extensive in-house inventory.
Additionally, as a boutique event management company, we focus on building a family within the company to grow and retain employees. Focusing on employee happiness and retention, we are able to capitalize on the creativity, experience, and wisdom of our teammates. This enables us to consistently provide our clients with exceptional service.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://goensouthevents.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goensouth
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goensouthsa
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/goen-south/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/goensouthevents
Image Credits
Daniel Prislovsky
