The Power of Partnership: Stories from Our Collective

Celebrating the People and Places That Bring Austin’s Gatherings to Life

At The Venue Collective, partnerships are at the center of our work. The Venue Collective partnerships are built on trust, collaboration, and the belief that hospitality thrives when venues feel supported. This story highlights voices from inside our Collective — thoughtful testimonials from Austin venues sharing what partnership means to them.

Lenoir: A Longstanding Example of The Venue Collective Partnerships

Our relationship with Lenoir began in 2018 and has grown through years of private dinners, warm gatherings, and ongoing collaboration. Owner Jessica Maher shared a testimonial that beautifully captures the impact of our partnership on her team and her space.

“I have had the pleasure of working closely with Allison since 2018. We were transitioning one of our spaces into a private dining room, and there was an immediate synergy between what her team offered and what we needed to grow this side of our business.”

“Allison’s background in hospitality and her experience leading events for prominent restaurant groups in Austin made her a valuable partner from day one. Over the seven years of our collaboration, Allison and her team have played a pivotal role in the growth of our private dining business at Lenoir.”

“What sets Allison apart is her proactive and adaptive approach. She engages in open dialogue, adjusts to changing circumstances with ease, and fosters a collaborative environment among her clients. Her model not only supports our needs effectively but also strengthens our team.”

— Jessica Maher, Owner of Lenoir

The Long Goodbye: Partnership Rooted in Warmth and Ease

At The Long Goodbye, owner Katrina Ferraro shared a heartfelt reflection on what it feels like to collaborate with a partner who brings both professionalism and genuine care to every interaction.

“I have watched Allison consistently demonstrate exceptional skill, integrity, and a true passion for hospitality. Her warm and friendly demeanor makes every interaction easy, and she has a talent for creating a welcoming environment wherever she goes.”

“Her commitment to high-quality service is evident in everything she does. She brings a level of attentiveness and organization that makes us feel supported and confident — and that makes a meaningful difference for our venues.”

— Katrina Ferraro, Owner of The Long Goodbye

The Kitchen: A Testimonial from Bobby Hernandez

Bobby Hernandez shared thoughtful insight into how our collaboration supported his team. Now the General Manager at The Kitchen, his words reflect the heart of what our partnerships strive to provide.

“Before working with Allison and The Venue Collective, our management team was stretched thin. We didn’t have an in-house event coordinator, so private events were time-consuming and difficult to manage while still running day-to-day operations.”

“They stepped in and took all of the hard work off our plate. All we had to do was execute the dinner or event. They handled guest communication — which can be tricky — and their coordinators were available on-site whenever needed. We saw immediate growth in event inquiries and buyouts within the first month.”

“What I value most is their experience and open communication. Allison and her team are always there for us, always professional, and always aligned with our standards. Having them in our corner allowed us to think more strategically about private dining and even consider new ways to use our space.”

— Bobby Hernandez, General Manager of The Kitchen

Why The Venue Collective Partnerships Matter

These testimonials — each with its own perspective and story — reflect what we strive to build with every venue: clarity, ease, and a genuine partnership that elevates the guest experience.

Through The Venue Collective partnerships, venues are able to:

• deliver more meaningful, elevated events
• reduce operational strain during busy service hours
• book confidently and efficiently
• communicate more clearly with their guests
• focus their energy on hospitality, not coordination

When our partners thrive, the celebrations inside their walls become richer, more memorable, and more effortless for everyone involved.

A Final Note

We’re endlessly grateful for the venues that trust us with their spaces, their teams, and their guest experiences. These stories highlight what hospitality becomes when leaders support one another — and how partnership can transform the way gatherings take shape.

If you’re a venue interested in joining our Collective, or a current partner who’d like to share your own story, we’d love to connect.