Sometimes when an established business, known for excellent customer service, is turned over to new owners, there is that question of what will the new company be like? Question answered— the new owners of Gather in Historic Downtown McKinney, Darrell and Jill Barnes have the energy and drive to, minimally, keep the high standards of the previous owner, Jennifer Klassen. In fact, they attribute that ability to the wonderful time spent by Jennifer to make sure the transition kept up the tradition of superb customer service she had established since Gather opened in 2011.
Darrell is a Dallas-born Texan who ventured off for six years serving really tough duty with the US Navy in San Diego for two years and four years in Hawaii. Yet his Texas roots brought him back home to Dallas and the heat it is known for. Initially, upon his return, he managed a few nightclubs, then spent 17 years at Texas Instruments. He worked in manufacturing for five years, during which time he met his future bride, Jill. Jill is originally from San Diego and moved to the McKinney area for its quality of life and better schools. She has 16 years of experience in photography and was very aware of Gather, since her office for Jilly Bean Photography is upstairs, next to Gather’s office. Once she heard Jennifer was selling, she said it was an easy decision for her to get Darrell excited about the new opportunity. Jill focuses on maternity, newborn, family, young kids, and HS senior photography.
Together, the newlyweds are the perfect pair to continue the success of Gather as they both have the charisma and warm, yet room-lighting smiles that make you immediately feel welcome and excited that you have met them. Having purchased Gather in May of 2021, they then got married in their venue just a couple of months later in June! It must have been a blessing that Jill is also a trained wedding planner!
Besides their excitement for being able to throw parties for a living, they also beam as they talk about what they enjoy the most, which they describe as, “Blessed by being part of people’s special moments”. And, between this couple’s obvious outgoing and caring nature, Gather is an outstanding venue for any celebration, large or small. Up to 150 people may be accommodated for hosting bridal or baby showers, birthday parties or quinceaneras, corporate events, rehearsal dinners, wedding ceremonies, receptions, and other events, all of which will be managed with great care.
The historic building has aged well but has recently been updated in a manner to keep its elegance and timeless beauty. The caterers used are of the highest quality and the venue has a BYOB policy, but all drinks must be served from the bar staffed by TABC Certified bartenders.
Darrell and Jill came together, forming a blended family of four adult children. Laci and Christian are 18 years old; Connor is 20, All three are continuing their education. Payton, the oldest at 22, lives and works in San Marcos. Christian is working at Gather to make it a true family business. The family is rounded out by their rescued Shih Tzu mix puppy, Penny Lane.
So, visit www.gathermckinney.com to learn more or call (972) 548-8882 to set up an appointment. Remember, you don’t just get a venue, you get Darrell and Jill— They ARE Gather!