KSU Continuing Education Grad Plans Events for City of Smyrna

After working as a systems engineer at IBM for two decades, Theresa Galletta was motivated to change careers and pursue event planning as a profession. In the summer of 2008, she enrolled in the Meeting & Event Management program at KSU’s College of Continuing and Professional Education. This course, instructed by a group of industry leaders, provided her with the fundamental skill set and practical knowledge to plan meetings and events like a seasoned professional.

At the completion of her program, Galletta’s passion for the field led her to work as an independent meeting and event planner with her own company, Meeting Street Events, LLC – a position in which she flourished. Later, through her connections, she heard of an opportunity to merge her dedication and experience in the field with her interest in the preservation of historic properties. Galletta rose to the challenge and accepted a position as a facilities event coordinator for the City of Smyrna.

Galletta currently manages Brawner Hall, a grand banquet mansion located at the 10-acre Taylor-Brawner Park and she is also responsible for two additional historic venues, a cabin and a Victorian home. Within these facilities, the City of Smyrna hosts a variety of events including corporate team building activities, training classes, birthday parties, fundraisers, quinceñeras, baby and bridal showers, and family reunions. Once these rental facilities are booked, Galletta works with her customers to bring their vision to life.

“I enjoy helping people accomplish whatever goals they have for their meeting or event,” Galletta said. “I always remind my staff that, while this is a job for us, these are life events for our customers. There are no do-overs, so we strive to make all events the best that they can be.”

Most event planners would agree that each day brings tasks and opportunities that are different from the day before. Over the last few months, Galletta has been involved in the renovation of the Reed House, a historic home built in 1910. This includes the acquisition and refurbishing of donated period furniture, interior design decisions and selection of kitchen equipment. The property will be used as an event facility for weddings and private events.

In between event planning for Brawner Hall, the cabin and the Victorian home and the renovations for the historic Reed House, Galletta attends numerous meetings and conventions to promote the venues. She has found the industry is fast-paced and filled with opportunities.

“The great thing about this job is that there really isn’t a typical day,” Galletta said.

For more information on the Meeting and Event Management certificate program, visit ccpe.kennesaw.edu or call 470-578-6765.