Terri Weber really supports local businesses, and I mean that in the most superlative sense. She helps local businesses start and grow their businesses through her job at Greater Louisville, Inc. She is a wealth of information about Louisville and a perfect cheerleader for our town. What I really wanted to know about her is where she keeps those giant scissors for all the ribbon cuttings she does?
What do you do for a living?
As an Opportunity Manager at Greater Louisville Inc., the Metro Chamber of Commerce (GLI), I help business owners find opportunities to grow their business, whether it’s through our cost savings programs, networking opportunities, ribbon cuttings, or assisting with marketing solutions.
When did you discover that you had a talent for this?
I started at GLI almost 14 years ago. With a background in the legal and medical field, I discovered that I enjoyed helping people. At GLI, I help businesses grow and prosper in Louisville.
You know local businesses here better than most of us. What advice do you have for people that want to open their own business here in Louisville?
Have a goal. Love and be passionate about what you do. Build your own Board. Establish relationships with various funding opportunities. Surround yourself with a great team. Seek advice from GLI and other business owners. Building your brand through networking and marketing at all times is critical. Embrace change and stay focused at all times!
Tell us about those big scissors. How many times do you use them a week?
Our impressive Ceremonial Ribbon Cutting Scissors make a dramatic impact at Grand Opening Ceremonies. The blue ribbon stating “Louisville: It’s Possible Here” is also a great addition to the ceremony. We have quite a few during any given week.
Terri and her scissors at a grand opening/ribbon cutting.
What is the biggest life lesson you have ever learned?
You only have one chance to make a good first impression.
What is best advice you have received in business?
Adapt to change.
If you were not in your current job, what would you secretly love to do?
Since I love sports and I’m too old to be a cheerleader, I’d love to be a sportswriter. I’d love to write about the U of L Cardinals, Indianapolis Colts, Green Bay Packers, or Tampa Bay Buccaneers (just to name a few of my favorites).
What is something people would be surprised to know about you?
In high school, I wanted to work for the FBI.
What is your favorite place to go out to eat?
With so many great local restaurants, it’s hard to choose; however, Café Lou Lou and Mayan Cafe are my favorites. I’m addicted to Heine Brothers Coffee, too.
Where do you like to shop?
I love the dresses Work the Metal just started selling. (Editor’s note: her dress in the pictures is from this shop.) I recently purchased some cute items from Pink Julep Boutique and The Willow Tree. My must-have is glass jewelry by Fran Ferrell. Her one-of-a-kind pieces are truly a work of art, and I always get a ton of compliments when I wear her jewelry. Also I have a few pieces of unique jewelry from Koi Gallery in the Galt House.
What is a treat or a luxury you do for yourself?
I get a fantastic massage monthly at Elements Therapeutic Massage. Colleen O’Connor always takes great care of me. Also, another treat is a great haircut. I can’t give enough compliments to Teresa Acton of T & Company (previously known as Sedat’s). I met Teresa and her husband Sedat on a GLI (Greater Louisville Inc.) trip to Turkey.
Terri shows her Heine Brothers support in Turkey earlier this year. Image credit: GLI.
What is your weakness?
Almost everyone knows my weakness is dessert. Life is short: eat dessert first.
What is your favorite thing to do in Louisville?
My favorite thing to do in Louisville is spend time with my grandchildren. Second would be watching U of L sports. I also enjoy the local restaurants, spending time outdoors at our great parks or on the golf course.
Three things you cannot live without, besides God, family and friends:
Coffee, Exercise and Coffee
What are you reading right now?
I’m currently reading several books: James Patterson’s Private series, Bill Lamb’s (WDRB) book, Money Follows Excellence and I just downloaded Sheryl Sandberg’s Lean In.
What are three of your “favorite” things right now?
- My grandchildren are tops. I have a grandson who is almost two, and twin granddaughters who turned two in May.
- U of L sports
- Traveling, making new friends and enjoying new cultures.
Thank you to Terri Weber for taking time out of her schedule to talk to us about Louisville’s local businesses.
Thank you to Adele Reding photography for being the “best of the best” time and time again with our FACES. Be sure to book early for your Christmas Card photo shoots; space is limited! For more information about Adele, visit her website at adeleredingphotography.com.
