Meet Valerie Pinon
We had the good fortune of connecting with Valerie Pinon and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Valerie, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
In a government municipality and hospitality setting, risk-taking often involves balancing innovation with public responsibility. Personally, I view risk as an essential part of growth and development. In my career, taking calculated risks has allowed me to explore new ideas and improve services, whether through implementing new programs, enhancing guest experiences, or optimizing operations.
For example, embracing the risk of introducing a new event at the country club could lead to increased attendance and revenue, but it also requires careful planning and consideration of potential setbacks. Assessing the risks involves analyzing the benefits against possible challenges, ensuring that decisions align with both community needs and business goals.
Ultimately, taking risks has taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability, as not every venture will succeed, but each experience provides valuable lessons that contribute to future success.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Coral Gables Golf & Country Club is a unique venue that combines the elegance of a country club with a vibrant community atmosphere. What sets us apart is our commitment to providing exceptional experiences for our members and guests, whether it’s through our meticulously maintained golf course, top-notch dining options, or engaging social events. We pride ourselves on creating lasting memories, from family celebrations to corporate gatherings.
I’m particularly proud of the strong sense of community we’ve built at the club. Our team is dedicated to fostering relationships and ensuring that every member feels valued and welcomed. We actively seek feedback and continuously strive to enhance our offerings, which keeps us connected to the needs and desires of our members.
The journey to where we are today has certainly had its challenges. Building a successful brand takes time, and there have been moments of uncertainty and setbacks. However, through resilience and a focus on quality service, we’ve managed to navigate those obstacles. Learning to adapt to changing circumstances, like the impact of the pandemic on the hospitality industry, taught us the importance of flexibility and innovation. We embraced technology to enhance our services and ensure safety, which ultimately strengthened our operations.
One of the key lessons I’ve learned is the value of collaboration. Whether it’s working closely with my team or engaging with members, open communication and teamwork have always led to better outcomes. I believe that the heart of our success lies in the relationships we cultivate.
I want the world to know that Coral Gables Golf & Country Club is more than just a venue; it’s a place where memories are made, friendships are forged, and the community thrives. Our story is one of passion, dedication, and a deep commitment to enhancing the lives of those we serve. We’re excited about the future and look forward to continuing to create extraordinary experiences for everyone who walks through our doors.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting the area for a week, I’d want to create an unforgettable itinerary that showcases the best of what we have to offer. Here’s how I’d plan the week:
Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation
– Lunch at The Coral Gables Bistro, known for its fresh, local cuisine.
– Afternoon: A leisurely stroll through the beautiful Venetian Pool, a unique swimming spot surrounded by lush landscapes.
– Dinner at The Capital Grille, where we’d indulge in a fine dining experience featuring dry-aged steaks and an extensive wine list.
– Evening: A quiet drink at the historic Coral Gables Country Club bar, enjoying the ambiance and sharing stories.
Day 2: Culture and History
– Breakfast at The Biltmore Hotel’s Fontana, offering a lovely setting with a delicious breakfast buffet.
– Morning: Visit the Coral Gables Museum to learn about the city’s history and architecture.
– Lunch at La Carreta, a local favorite for authentic Cuban cuisine.
– Afternoon: Explore the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, marveling at the stunning plant collections.
– Dinner at The Grove Restaurant & Bar, known for its farm-to-table approach.
– Evening: Attend a concert or event at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts.
Day 3: Outdoor Adventure
– Breakfast at Greenstreet Cafe, famous for its outdoor seating and vibrant atmosphere.
– Morning: Kayaking at Matheson Hammock Park, enjoying the beautiful waters and wildlife.
– Lunch at The Rusty Pelican, with stunning views of the Miami skyline.
– Afternoon: Relax at South Beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
– Dinner at Joe’s Stone Crab, a Miami staple.
– Evening: Explore Ocean Drive, taking in the nightlife and vibrant street performances.
Day 4: Arts and Entertainment
– Breakfast at The Daily Creative Food Co., offering fresh and healthy options.
– Morning: Visit the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) for contemporary art exhibits.
– Lunch at Coyo Taco for delicious, authentic tacos.
– Afternoon: Explore Wynwood Walls, a colorful outdoor museum showcasing street art.
– Dinner at Yardbird Southern Table & Bar for Southern comfort food.
– Evening: Bar hopping in Wynwood, enjoying craft cocktails and local breweries.
Day 5: Relaxation and Pampering
– Breakfast at The Original Pancake House for a hearty breakfast.
– Morning: A relaxing spa day at the Biltmore Spa, indulging in massages and treatments.
– Lunch at Cafe Abbracci, known for its cozy ambiance and Italian dishes.
– Afternoon: Spend some time shopping at the Shops at Merrick Park.
– Dinner at Casa Tua, a charming Italian restaurant with a lovely garden setting.
– Evening: Enjoy a quiet nightcap at the rooftop bar, Juvia, overlooking the city.
Day 6: Local Experiences
– Breakfast at La Provence, a quaint French café.
– Morning: Visit the Coral Gables Farmers Market for fresh produce and local crafts.
– Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory, where we can indulge in a variety of dishes.
– Afternoon: Take a guided tour of the historic Coral Gables landmarks, learning about the architecture and history.
– Dinner at The Alchemist, known for its cocktails and stylish atmosphere.
– Evening: Attend a local event or festival if there’s one happening, experiencing the community vibe.
Day 7: Farewell and Reflection
– Breakfast at Books & Books, where we can enjoy coffee and pastries while browsing.
– Morning: Visit the Coral Gables Merrick House for a glimpse into the city’s founder’s home.
– Lunch at Seasons 52 for a fresh, seasonal menu.
– Afternoon: Relax at the beach or take a final stroll through the Coral Gables Botanical Garden.
– Dinner at final dinner at Macchialina for the perfect Italian send-off.
– Evening: End the trip with a sunset at the beach, reflecting on the week’s adventures.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to some incredible individuals who have shaped my path.
First off, a huge shoutout to Lissette Hernandez, who got me through the door and opened up opportunities I never thought possible. Then there’s Lorena Sliva, whose guidance through the process has been invaluable; her support helped me navigate challenges with confidence. I can’t forget Mitchell Zurriarrain and Carlos Llompart, who have mentored me along the way, sharing their wisdom and insights that have truly enriched my experience.
Lastly, I want to recognize Carolina Vester, whose influence has been instrumental in molding me into the person I am today. Her encouragement and belief in my potential have been motivating forces in my career.
Reflecting on my journey, I think about my grandpa, who always envisioned me becoming a doctor to care for him in his later years. Although he’s no longer with me, I’ve found a way to honor that dream by helping people create and celebrate their most precious moments. Instead of focusing on the sadness, I strive to bring joy and fulfillment to others, which I believe is a beautiful way to care for people.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coralgablescountryclub?igsh=MTZ6bWd0bjdnd2JnYQ==
Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@valeriepinon_?_t=ZT-8yrCeBcmAtK&_r=1
Image Credits
City of Coral Gables
Coral Gables Golf & Country Club
Miami-Dade Favorites from Miami-Herald
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