Home is Where the Heart Is
"Cynthiana hospitality is warm, welcoming, and feels like family."
Beginning a new journey, leaving high school and deciding on a major in college that depicts your entire career can seem frightening. For me it was clear: Hospitality and Event Planning is where my heart is. Born and raised in Cynthiana I’ve seen all the ins and outs of a small town. I’ve been able to see the heart of a community come together when nothing else seemed
possible. I’m always drawn back to my roots of that hometown feeling, and wanting to grow that experience and warmth of Cynthiana hospitality in my career.
They say “home is where the heart is” and I’ve been able to see it first hand! Through the beginning stages of my studies of Event Planning at EKU last fall, I was prompted with the decision of where to do my first internship experience. Of course, I was drawn back home to the place that felt right- Ashford Acres Inn! I felt so blessed when I was given the opportunity to come back to Ashford (after being a server/housekeeping in high school) and experience all the behind the scenes of what makes an event at Ashford feel so magical.
Becoming an Event Planning Intern, I have seen the hard work, dedication, and joyful occasions: the last moments a father shares a last name with his daughter, a flower girl looking up to a bridesmaid, a mother perfecting every detail for her daughters baby shower, and a quiet moment shared between a couple on their anniversary where their love story began. I could go on and on! There’s something so heartwarming about knowing that these strangers are experiencing their most memorable occasions right here in my hometown, and I feel so grateful that I get to be a part of it! I now get to share a piece of my home that gets to become a part of their story, whatever or wherever that may be.
Although I’m only beginning my experience, the love I have for both hospitality and tourism has significantly grown since starting my internship. One of my most favorite parts is the occasional small talk with a guest. I get to tell them I grew up right here in Cynthiana! Every time this conversation sparks I’m reminded of why it feels so special. Cynthiana hospitality is warm, welcoming, and feels like family. I’m so excited to continue learning and growing my experience right in the heart of my hometown, and I’m so thankful that I get to do it at Ashford!
Now working in the event planning industry and only a sophomore in college, I can’t help but anticipate the biggest moments of my life soon to come: Engagements, best friends’ weddings, and witnessing life’s most cherished memories; celebrating accordingly through my passion of making these dreams come true. The little girl inside me is bursting with joy as I get to write about my love and passion. Never forget where you came from, it’s where your heart will always lead!
Cheers to love!
- Maddie Renaker
