This week on the blog, we continue our Staff Spotlight series with Katie Borges, Special Events Manager here at the Gibbes!
How long have you been at the Gibbes?
About a year and a half
Describe your role here at the museum.
I coordinate all of the rentals of the museum. Whether the museum is rented for a wedding, a corporate event, or a non-profit gala, I work with the clients, planners, and vendors, from the initial walk-through, to the event itself, making sure that everything goes smoothly. I strive to continue to grow the rentals for the museum, increasing the number of events each year, and as a result, increasing our revenue. I continue to think of ways that our rental program can improve, so that we can keep up with our competitors, as we are the number one wedding destination in the US.
What brought you to the Gibbes? Tell us about how you ended up here!
I’ve always had a love for the arts, and I’ve also always been a planner by nature. After graduating the College of Charleston with an Art History degree, I moved to New York City for a few years, only to realize that Charleston was my true home. After moving back to Charleston, I worked at a local retail shop, while coordinating many events for the store. This experience allowed me to realize my love for planning events. When I saw that the Gibbes was hiring for a Special Events Assistant, I knew that I had to interview for the role, as it would be an amazing opportunity to combine my love for art, with my love for events. The rest was history!
What is your favorite exhibition you’ve experienced here at the Gibbes?
My favorite exhibit in the museum currently is Charles Edward Williams: SUN + LIGHT. The paintings are so thought provoking and moving, and the exhibit reminds me of how powerful art can be. Art can inspire, provoke critical thinking, and even spark change, and it is such an important tool to keep alive.
Tell us about an interesting project you’ve worked on!
I’m really excited about next years Art of Design, as well as Street Party. It is so exciting to be a part of such large scale events, and to see it all come to life is incredibly rewarding. Last year was my first time being a part of each event, and now that I know what to expect, I’m excited to be more hands on in the planning process this year, while working alongside the committees.
Besides the Gibbes, where do you take friends and family for the quintessential Charleston/Lowcountry experience?
My parents live on Folly Beach, so a big part of my heart will always be out there. Sunny beach days, kayaking on the marsh, and low country sunsets will always be quintessentially Charleston to me. I also love to show people around downtown. Biking around my Wagener Terrace neighborhood, to Hampton Park to the Battery, and stopping at my favorite coffee shops and restaurants in between, like Harbinger, and Basic Kitchen, always makes for a great day!
-By Katie Borges, Special Events Manager and guest blogger
-Published November 8, 2019