This week, we’ll meet one of our owners, Belinda Shumway !

What led you to this career?

In the 90’s, I worked in Scotia at a banquet house called Miranda’s, it was a family run business and the owner was Lou Miranda. His brother owned a bakery in Guilderland. Lou taught me so much. He taught me from how to treat customers, sell events to bartending to serving. It felt like I was a part of another big Italian family and I said someday I will own a banquet house and my staff like they are part of my big Italian Family, and now I do! 

What’s your favorite part about a wedding or social event?

My favorite part about weddings or social events their is no sadness, everyone is so happy! And I get to throw a small or big party every weekend. 

What is something you’re wanting to add to an event or wedding?

What I want to add to a wedding is creativity – making it different then the last one doing something your guests have never see.

What is your favorite quote?

“Don’t be afraid to fail. It’s not the end of the world, and in many ways it’s the first step toward learning something and getting better at it.” – Jon Hamm

What’s your favorite place to eat around town?

My favorite place to eat around town is Cafe Calabria . Not only is Mike Futia one one my former grooms – him and his beautiful wife, Danielle, just had their first baby! But his passion for food and family values is what I also believe in. They are also a local small family owned business, which I truly believe in supporting even more after this virus.

Who inspires you?

My ma!

My mother came into the United States at 18, married and left behind her family in Italy. She wasn’t able to speak a word of English. She took care of her mother (my grandma), living with us for 43 years who also spoke no English. To my ma, she ended up going to school at 23 years old, so she was able to learn how to read and write the English language. At the age of thirty, she started her own business. She taught me to treat people like you wanna be treated and to also help the less fortunate when you can.

Where is your favorite place to travel?

My favorite place to travel is St. Petersburg’s Florida. Boy, do I love being a beach bum! I would take the ocean any day.

Are you a sports fan? What are your favorite teams?

I gotta love those Giants!!

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?

The thing I enjoy the most when not working, is to be with my two handsome grandsons ! Christian is 5 and baby Joe is three months old. I really love to spend time with my family!