Q&A with Abra Miller

Abra Miller

Beecher Hill House

What inspired you to start your business or pursue your current career path? How has your initial vision evolved since you started?

I purchased a wedding venue, Beecher Hill House, 8 years ago, not sure how I would make it my own. However, upon meeting my first bride, I realized my experience in hospitality, entertainment, my candor, my organization, warmth, and (yes), my mothering qualities, worked beautifully for newly engaged couples to drop the stress and embrace the enjoyment. These skills have only heightened, and my all-inclusive, show up and play, leave your concerns at the door mentality has become my 'thing.'

What's the biggest challenge you've faced as a woman in your industry, and how did you overcome it? How do you think these challenges have changed in your industry?

I do not have any issues as a woman business owner, mainly because the wedding industry is, by nature, 'female.' But I do stand tall, firm in my beliefs, give back, and have become a champion for my couples to create the wedding of their dreams.

Describe a pivotal moment in your career that shaped your leadership style. How would you describe your leadership style now?

My leadership has definitely grown and matured as I get years under my belt. What has not changed, but has been fine-tuned, is my ability to nurture the wedding planning process and wedding experience. A pivotal moment? Probably when I booked my first wedding. I ran with my gut, and it worked. Of course, that bride will never know it was my first.

How do you balance your professional responsibilities with your personal life? What strategies or support systems have you found most helpful?

My business is in my home, at my property, all-encompassing as a place to share with my guests. The wedding months are last weekend in May to first weekend in October. During those months, it is a free for all, revolving door season. But during the winter months, I take my home back and hunker down with my family. It is a win-win!

What advice would you give young women aspiring to enter your field? What do you wish someone had told you when you were starting?

I would advise anyone, not just women, to go for it! Always. Take a chance. Stand up for yourself. Ride out the storm. As for the wedding industry in particular, I would say there is a wedding venue for every bride and personality. Go make one for yourself, with your own spin on things...

How has mentorship played a role in your career as a mentee or mentor? How do you approach mentoring others in your current position?

My entire personality is based on having had great mentors/family/friends and doing my best to do the same for anyone willing/able to watch/listen/ask. We have to be stupid before we get smart and that means WAIT? Why Am I Talking? Rather listen. It has served me well!

What strategies have you found most effective for building and maintaining professional networks? How has networking changed with the rise of social media and digital platforms?

My business and my business development/growth are all based on networking and opening doors. Watching and learning! Opening my doors and heart to those around me. I treat my business like family!

In your experience, what key skills or qualities have contributed most to your success? How do you continue to develop these skills?

Skills? Organization. Style. Generosity. And a very real need to laugh. How else can one get through some of the mud? Forgive one's shortcomings. Move on when necessary. I also believe change is good. Growth is good. Open up one's blinders and push one's self.

How do you stay innovative and adapt to changes in your industry? Share an example of how you've successfully navigated a major industry shift.

I don't need to adapt much in my industry. Rather stay current with trends and considerate of my clients' needs.

What initiatives or changes would you like to see to promote gender equality in the business world? How do you personally contribute to advancing these initiatives?

Initiatives come from leading by example. In my business, I do not judge a book by its cover. Every couple gets the same tour, chance, pricing, support, and experience as the next. And if I may be honest, I surround myself with like-minded individuals who have women's rights FIRST AND FOREMOST on their minds and in their attitudes and lifestyle. Those people willing to stand up for us and fight for change!