Imagine sitting feet away from your favorite musician during their performance in a private setting. Imagine getting exclusive access to the top dining destinations and the chefs behind the dishes. Imagine shopping the best boutiques with a personal stylist. Imagine being behind the scenes during a music video shoot. If you dream it, Jamie Bibler can bring it to life.
Jamie is the brains behind Bon Vivant, a lifestyle management firm that marries concierge services and hospitality. Jamie took her experience from 10+ years in hospitality and event management to create a company that caters to visitors. By providing concierge and hospitality services, she is tasked with showing off Nashville in a unique and special way. Bon Vivant provides exclusive experiences that can be customized for each client. Although not a Nashville native, Jamie knows the city like the back of her hand. Her knowledge and expertise, plus the relationships she has fostered, make her the ideal Nashville tour guide. Today, Jamie shares her background, talents and helpful advice that motivated her to start her own company. Welcome, Jamie Bibler as today’s FACE of Nashville.
Tell us about your background.
I grew up in a small Indiana town. It was the type of town where the kids you shared milk with in kindergarten were the same ones that you graduated with. I am fortunate enough to have the most loving and supportive parents; a strong, intelligent older sister; and a very loving, hard-working younger brother. I admire and love them dearly. My passion for people and experiences lead me to a career in hospitality and, ultimately, Nashville. I began working for an event decor/design company while finishing college. From there, I went on to a management position at Hilton Properties. Six years ago, on a whim, I traveled to Nashville for a weekend getaway. I instantly fell in love with not only the offerings of the city but most importantly, the people. By the end of my three-day stay, there was no question. This city was going to be my new home. A month later, I moved. I continue to be grateful every day for the opportunities, invaluable life-changing relationships and amazing experiences I have been fortunate to have in this amazing city!
What talents and skillset do you bring to the world of hospitality?
I’m passionate about my work, the details and, most importantly, the happiness of those around me. Working behind the scenes to make things happen in the realm of hospitality only makes sense for someone like me who truly gets joy from the happiness of others. It is my passion, my drive to go to any length to make others happy, and my “anything is possible” mentality that is a fit in the industry.
As a lifestyle management firm, tell us about what Bon Vivant offers.
Bon Vivant is essentially a high-end concierge for entertainment and hospitality. We provide our clients with exclusive, unique Nashville experiences. It is because of our relationships and partnerships that we are able to offer our clients opportunities that go beyond what the general public is able to obtain.
Who is your typical client?
Our typical clients include VIP travelers, local corporate clients entertaining on a regular basis, as well as private individuals interested in experiencing the best the city has to offer!
Who have been your professional mentors?
One of the attributes that I love most about our city is that Nashville truly is a “connector” city. There is a genuine desire for individuals to connect those they meet with others they know that may be beneficial to that person, whether personally or professionally. It has been through the generosity of others who were willing to connect that I have been fortunate enough to cultivate such meaningful relationships. One such relationship has been Stacie Standifer. I have such admiration and respect for her impact on the Nashville community and beyond. She is a strong, intelligent, talented woman.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received, and from whom?
Stacie once told me that I was someone who would always give 110% no matter where I worked. If that was the case, why wasn’t I working for myself? Those words had such an impact on me. It was her words — and the fierce support of my family and friends — that gave me the courage to follow my ambitions and start Bon Vivant. Since my time in Nashville, Stacie has so willingly shared her experiences and words of wisdom with me. I am beyond grateful!
As a little girl, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I loved being on stage. Elementary school through junior high and high school, I was in every play possible and actively involved in community theater as well.
Where can we find you when you aren’t working?
Spending time with those I love is where I’ll be.
What books are currently on your bedside table?
It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want to Be by Paul Arden
Excluding faith, family and friends, what are three things you can’t live without?
Sunshine. It sounds so silly, but when you remove friends and family, the sun and light are the only things.
Thank you, Jamie! And thank you to Ashley Hylbert for the fabulous photos of this amazing FACE.
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