Three Minutes Across the Counter with Lee Anne Vetrone-Timothy

Image: Lee Anne Vetrone-Timothy with her father, Dr. Cosmo Vetrone

“Three Minutes Across the Counter” is a new feature on Patch in which we chat with local business owners. If you would like to be featured, email adina@patch.com with the name of your business.

Today we chat with Lee Anne Vetrone-Timothy, the owner of Eventmakr, an event, marketing and communications firm in Port Washington.

Patch: How did you get your first start in business?

Lee Anne Vetrone-Timothy: I worked in the catering business when I was in high school and college. While living in Los Angeles, I was doing a catering job for a big Hollywood movie premiere. I remember walking into the event and thinking, “someone had to orchestrate this entire project – all the moving parts – every detail.” In that moment, I knew I wanted to be that person…the person that brings all the elements together. Since that day, I have been involved in everything from the Clinton Presidential Inauguration to Elizabeth Taylor’s perfume launch, to producing musical events in the Port schools to working on a myriad of non-profit, corporate, artistic, political and individual events and projects…it’s fulfilling and rewarding work!

Patch: How did your parents influence you as a business owner?

Lee Anne Vetrone-Timothy: A smile and a helping hand. My Mom was a teacher and a business owner. She is very involved in the Port community and beyond. Her mantra is: IWWMI – “In What Way Might I?” rather than saying, “I can’t” or “no”.

My dad had a Dental practice in Port Washington for 50 years…that’s a lot of smiles! He listens intently, asks a lot of questions and then, asks, “how can I be of help? They both remain active in the Port community.

Patch: How long have you lived here?

Lee Anne Vetrone-Timothy: I am a third-generation Port Washingtonian. My Grandfather, Anthony Vetrone was one of the famed Sand Miners in Port who helped build NYC. I lived in California - LA and SF - for 11 years. My husband and I returned home to Port when my oldest son was a year old.

Patch: What’s your favorite thing about living here?

Lee Anne Vetrone-Timothy: Community. There is an abundance of talented, engaged and generous people involved in all aspects of our community. The amount of good our town is able to do for those in need, to better our community and to grow our town is amazing and all thanks to the willingness of others to pitch in and help!

Patch: What’s a business mistake you’ve made that later you were glad you did?

Lee Anne Vetrone-Timothy: Undervaluing my skills and thinking, “oh, anyone could do what I do.” When in fact, not everyone can do what I do or has an eye for the business in the way that I do. Coming to believe in myself and in my abilities has been empowering and has actually helped to propel my business.

Patch: Tell us something about yourself that most of your neighbors don’t know.

Lee Anne Vetrone-Timothy: I love to sing. I have always wanted to be in a choir. Live music moves me.

Patch: What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received?

Lee Anne Vetrone-Timothy: Balance. Balance. Balance. Life is all about healthy balance. Running a small business is no different. It was suggested to me early on that I should, “put my oxygen mask on first.” In that way, I will be in the best possible position to tend to the needs of my business. Also, go with your gut. When considering a prospective client or job, listen, inquire and then, go with what my gut is telling me. Trust my instincts and know what I know to be true.

Patch: What advice would you give to a small business owner just starting out?

Lee Anne Vetrone-Timothy: Go for something you are passionate about. If you start from this point, you will be able to work through the challenges that may block your path to success. And, create you own support team – people who you can go to for advice, support and resources.

Patch: What do you look for when you hire?

Lee Anne Vetrone-Timothy: I have a ”soup to nuts’” approach with my business and surround myself with people who are willing to do what it takes to get the job done - professionally, efficiently and happily.

Contact Lee Anne at: eventmakr@gmail.com or 516/996-5245