Creative Spotlight: Wesley Works

When I was living in the Lehigh Valley, I literally saw the Wesley Works name just about everywhere I went. And I am so excited that Wes Barrett of Wesley Works agreed to do a spotlight with us. So here we go, a jack of all trades…

Tell us about yourself. And your business, obviously.

My name is Wesley Barrett.  I am 30 years old and the owner of Wesley Works. I graduated from Emmaus High School in 1999 and from Quinnipiac University in Hamden CT in 2003. Wesley Works is located in Emmaus and offers a unique collection of award winning services  including Photography, Disc Jockey, Videography and Residential Real Estate. Wesley Works collectively employs 37 individuals.

When and how did your professional journey begin?

It’s hard to answer this one briefly because I have always had the entrepreneurial spirit, but I think it’s fair to say that I got my first taste of business way back in 1987 when I started a lawn care/snow removal business; a business I maintained until 2009 when I sold it. My first paying DJ gig was in 1992 and is the year I use as the start of the business most Lehigh Valley residents know us for. It’s been nothing but continual growth since that time which includes 8 other businesses, and counting.

In your opinion, what sets you apart from others in the wedding industry?

Our level of sophistication and independence. Few things about our business fit the traditional mold most DJ and Photography studios are cast from. We have always done our own thing and created a business that is totally unique from what is offered here in the Lehigh Valley. In many ways we have become the business other DJ and Photo companies in the area look to as a model to follow. I regularly see people copying our marking ideas, services offered, sometimes I even find word for word our sales text on other vendors’ websites, ahem ahem.  (We are for hire if anyone needs a writer)

I think another factor that sets us apart from other companies is that we are truly in touch with what our customers want. In so many ways our employees embody the values and lifestyle that our customer are used to and looking for — attributes that are hard to replicate.

Besides weddings, are there any other special events that you service?

While weddings are our signature event, we also do plenty of amazing sweet 16’s, corporate events and VIP events each year. Some of our most memorable include twin sisters arriving in helicopters at a local country club, the birthday girl and her entourage arriving in Lamborghinis and Ferraris, Hip Hop stars performing live and Top 40 Bands making guest appearances, and of course amazing gifts like the keys to a new Mercedes or Porsche.

What’s your favorite part of a wedding?

I actually have two favorites.

The first is the initial meeting I have with the couple when they come to our office to book. I love getting to know them, hear their story, and listen to them tell me what they envision their wedding day looking like.

The second is when I see them for the first time at the reception – which is often just a few minutes before introductions are about to begin. I love the energy that many couples have at this exact moment. Their anticipation level is huge, but with the ceremony behind them the nerves are gone, so they are really themselves.

Whether you’re single, married, divorced, or in love – we all have wise words when it comes to relationships.  What’s your bit of advice to couples?

Have fun.

What’s your favorite location for a wedding, so far?  What’s your dream location?

One of the most unique weddings I have ever done was in the middle of an apple orchard. The couple cleared out a small section of the orchard, the same plot where they planned to build their home after the wedding. It was a tented wedding in an incredible setting.

I can’t say I really have a dream location for a wedding. Some people, especially photographers, seem to be enamored by the idea of a destination wedding. I personally love a good Lehigh Valley wedding. I like to save my traveling for vacation.

One of my favorite colors is yellow… what’s yours?

Yellow. No question about it. I love the energy that it brings. Just look at my logo.

Not including weddings, what’s another one of your passions?

In stark contrast to my answer to questions number 7, my favorite thing to do is travel. I’ve been to all 50 states, all Canadian provinces and territories, 23 countries and 4 continents. I love to travel.

Finally, what’s the best way to get in touch with you?

Wes Barrett
Wesley Works INC
Web: www.wesleyworks.com
Email:  wes@wesleyworks.com
Office:  610-928-2000 x31
Fax:      610-928-1001
Office:  500 Chestnut Street, Emmaus PA 18049
Social:  www.facebook.com/wesley.works