Meet Marley Gann Shipley | Event Planner & Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Marley Gann Shipley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marley, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
Originating from the picturesque small town of San Luis Obispo, California, my upbringing has been deeply rooted in the values of hard work and discipline. Raised by parents who epitomized dedication, my father, an entrepreneur who owned a plumbing and fire sprinkler business, and my mother, a talented realtor with a keen eye for the market, instilled in me the importance of diligence from a young age. Witnessing their relentless work ethic motivated me to embark on my own journey of self-discovery. At the age of 14, I took my first steps into the workplace, crafting sandwiches at Schlotzki’s Deli and bagging groceries at the local market. These early experiences not only developed a strong work ethic but also laid the foundation for a set of valuable soft skills that continued to grow through years of diverse roles within the restaurant industry. Guided by a deep-seated desire to contribute to something larger and more meaningful, I found my calling in the events industry. The joy of witnessing people’s happiness became my driving force, shaping the person I am today. I love bringing life to a client’s vision, transforming ideas into memorable experiences with a touch of creativity and dedication.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career has been a journey shaped by a commitment to excellence and a passion for creating meaningful experiences. What sets me apart is the foundation of values instilled in me by my hardworking parents and skills honed through various roles in the restaurant industry. The pivotal moment arrived when I found my calling in the events business, driven to contribute to something meaningful. The support of my family, peers, and experiences at The Network Bar have been crucial to my growth. This journey hasn’t been without its challenges, but each obstacle served as a lesson, teaching me resilience and adaptability. I am most proud of the collaborative efforts that bring clients’ visions to life and the joy of witnessing people’s happiness. My story is one of dedication and the belief that meaningful connections are the heart of any successful venture.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
For an unforgettable week in Dallas, I would create an itinerary that showcases the city’s vibrant culture. We’d start our mornings with a Tex-Mex feast at Bread Winners Cafe. The Dallas Arts District would be our first stop, with visits to the Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center. Lunch at Pecan Lodge in Deep Ellum would be a must for some authentic Texas barbecue. Afternoons would be dedicated to exploring the historic Bishop Arts District and its unique boutiques. We’d catch a Dallas Mavericks game at the American Airlines Center and then head to Trinity Groves for dinner with a view of the skyline at Saint Rocco’s New York Italian. Mid-week, a visit to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science would add a touch of education to our adventure. We’d cap off the week with a relaxing evening at Klyde Warren Park, enjoying food truck delights and perhaps catching a live performance. Throughout the week, my goal would be to immerse my best friend in the different experiences that make Dallas an exciting destination.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My deepest gratitude goes to my mom, whose unwavering support have been the bedrock of my success. Her guidance, love, and entrepreneurial spirit have not only shaped my work ethic but have also been the driving force behind my determination to pursue my dreams. Additionally, I want to express profound appreciation to The Network Bar, an extraordinary source of support and inspiration. The collaborative environment and opportunities fostered by The Network Bar have not only contributed to my professional growth but have also been pivotal in the realization of my career aspirations. Their belief in my potential has been encouraging, and I am thankful for the profound impact they’ve had on my life.

Website: www.networkbar.com

Instagram: @thenetworkbar @marleyshipley

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/marleyshipley