The Story of a Squeaky Wheel: Where She Was and Where She’s Going.

As a new wedding server with Finley Catering, my summer nights quickly transformed into a world of tulle, tiered cake and being part of a team dedicated to making memories for couples on the most important day of their lives. It was an honor to witness the traditions and emotions that encompass each wedding I was lucky enough to attend. It didn’t take long to realize that the wedding industry was one I felt a sense of belonging in, and that I made the right choice in seeking out Finley Catering to further my long term career aspirations.

After just a few weeks of serving, I held my breath as I hit “send” on a text to my manager inquiring about a position in the company’s office. I expressed appreciation for my waitressing job at the venue and my plans to continue serving, regardless of the employment outcome from the office. A few days later, I was discussing my resume with Stephanie Finley, the daughter of the founder and CEO of Finley Catering. By that time the following week, I had an ID card, a company email and a position assisting Finley Catering’s wedding coordinators. Since then, my magazine spread designs for the company have been featured in Philly Mag, New Jersey Bride and Modern Luxury Weddings. I feel as though I can credit my success thus far not only to myself, but to the supportive community I’ve found within Finley Catering.

Finley Catering was founded by Steve Finley, a man who values family as much as the quality of his several luxury wedding venues in and surrounding Philadelphia. Not only can many individuals who share the last name be found throughout the sectors of his business, Steve’s approach of cherishing the members of his staff is nothing short of admirable. Hundreds of people are employed by Finley Catering, yet when Steve heard of my struggles with a recent apartment move, he made sure to ask about how I was adjusting to my new home. I was surprised that he knew I was moving in the first place, regardless of how difficult the transition was. Steve has since followed up more than once.

I cannot begin to express my gratitude for the company I stumbled upon while looking for a part time summer job just a few months ago. My life has transformed as I’ve gained so much clarity from the impending fear of the post-grad life that is quickly approaching. The best piece of advice I could offer to someone who is finding themselves in a similar situation boils down to one word: ask. Ask questions. Ask about promotions and how to grow within a current position. Demonstrating interest in how to become better at a job rarely goes unnoticed and could be more beneficial than one may think. If I never took the leap of faith in asking my manager about a position in the office, I wouldn’t have gained the professional experience and sense of security that shadows my job now. 

My mom always told me that “a squeaky wheel gets the grease.” This analogy, while always managing to give me an interesting mental image, means that making a little noise about something I want will offer more results than staying quiet and waiting for an opportunity to find me instead. Be brave and ask, squeaky wheels! The worst thing you’ll hear is “no.”