Chandeliers of Hope: Empire of the Seed's Resilient Recovery from Pandemic and Hurricane Laura
The past year has tested venue and event managers like never before. We spoke with Ashley Gatte, president of Empire of the Seed, which operates beloved downtown Lake Charles venues including the Calcasieu Marine Bank Building, the Paramount Room, and Cash & Carry. Ashley shares her firsthand experiences navigating the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastating 2020 hurricane season. A recent photo of grand chandeliers being installed at Cash & Carry symbolizes the community's renewed hope amid recovery. Here's an exclusive Q&A on her journey.
Q&A with Ashley Gatte, President of Empire of the Seed
-Photo by Chris Brennan-
Q: What has it been like managing Empire of the Seed's event properties during the pandemic, both personally and professionally?
A: It's been incredibly challenging. Balancing guest and community safety while sustaining the business has been our top priority. Personally, it was heartbreaking to hear brides' disappointment after months of planning, only to face postponements. Yet, it was affirming to see their dedication to our venues and local vendors, leading many to reschedule with us.
Professionally, this year fostered innovation. We adapted with live-streaming and technology to ensure safe, memorable weddings. It built resilience: persist with respect and decency.
Q: Did you ever imagine a storm like Hurricane Laura would have such a profound impact?
A: No, the reality didn't sink in until it hit. A lifelong Southwest Louisiana resident, I'd never seen anything like it. Press coverage felt surreal until driving through the city made it devastatingly real.
Q: What thoughts went through your mind before and after the storm?
A: Leading up, I was in denial and didn't evacuate until the day before. Post-storm, after the shock, I focused on one day at a time: helping friends rebuild, updating brides on repairs, volunteering at church, checking on family. I couldn't solve everything, but I could do something positive today.
Q: What were your first emotions upon seeing Hurricane Laura's impact?
A: After initial shock, I thought, "It's going to be a long road back." Our home and work repaired quickly, but the city won't soon. Yet, hope endures. Each reopening business, new tree planted reminds me: we are resilient.
-Bridal Suite Couch-
Q: What recovery steps have you and your Empire of the Seed team taken?
A: Recovery has been relatively smooth. Despite damage, we quickly brought in crews, restoring venues to pristine condition by early November—just in time for weddings. Sharing the good news with brides brought immense relief.
-Newly remodeled bridal suite-
Q: Did all properties sustain damage? If so, which and how extensive?
A: Cash & Carry had roof damage and severe kitchen issues. Calcasieu Marine Bank Building suffered substantial roof and courtyard damage, requiring a full rotunda gutting and remodel. Fortunately, the Paramount Room was largely unscathed.
Q: How did it feel installing those magnificent chandeliers at Cash & Carry?
A: Thrilling! Beyond aesthetics, they symbolize a new chapter, rebuilding, hope, and our community's resilience. It's our statement: We were down, but not out. Watch us rise stronger. Onward, SWLA!
-Chandeliers at Cash & Carry-
Q: What keeps you motivated daily?
A: My faith and family.
Q: What's your daily mantra?
A: If you can be anything, be kind!
Q: Where do you find inspiration and joy in tough times?
A: Comeback stories in business, sports, or life fuel me—especially our city's ongoing saga. We're training, learning, and will emerge stronger. Joy comes from my faith, family, and friends.
-Newly remodeled rotunda at the Calcasieu Marine Bank Building-
Final Thoughts from Ashley:
Empire of the Seed is fully operational and booking events! Our venues shine with updates: chandeliers at Cash & Carry, new bridal suites there and at Calcasieu Marine Bank Building, plus a forthcoming outdoor space at Cash & Carry. Follow us on Instagram @empireoftheseed, Facebook, or visit www.empireoftheseed.com. Call 337-310-0405 or email ashley@empireoftheseed.com to book.
