An Inspired Chat with Syrie Roman of Western New York

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Syrie Roman. Check out our conversation below.

Syrie, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
People often think being a wedding planner/designer is just about the pretty things, about picking out color pallettes, linens, flowers, and decor, but SO much happens behind the scenes. While design is a huge part of what I do, I’m not just creating a look. I’m building an experience. The real heart of this business is logistics, problem-solving, budgeting, timelines, vendor management, and about a thousand micro-decisions that go into creating an experience that feels effortless for my clients and their guests. Every detail, from timelines and vendor communication to guest flow and atmosphere is intentional and layered. The design only works if the logistics and the flow are seamless, and that part often goes unseen. My role is part designer, part producer, and part advocate. We ensure that the couples vision not only looks beautiful but feels authentic and runs seamlessly from start to finish. It’s not just event planning, it’s storytelling, coordination, and production all wrapped into one.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My background spans across Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, Catering, Event Production, and Wedding Planning. Social Maven started with a dream, a lot of hustle, and a deep love for creating memories for people. After 12 years in event management – from working at event venues to small and intimate weddings – I decided to start Social Maven. I often laugh when people think our job is glamorous, there is so much work behind the scenes that no one sees, that’s what we thrive on. The hours upon hours on our feet, small (internal) panic attacks when something doesn’t go as planned.

Before being an event planner, I used to manage restaurants and catering departments for different venues, so I know what they need and how we can come together to make a great event. My background comes as a huge advantage when dealing with vendors and venues, as I can ensure all the correct steps are being taken and all our bases are covered.

At Social Maven, we’re all about celebrating uniqueness because we know that one size definitely doesn’t fit all when it comes to weddings and events. We approach each event with a personalized touch, infusing purpose, genuine intentions, and a little love into every detail. We understand that planning a wedding (or any event!) can be a stressful experience. That’s why we strive to provide our clients with stress-free event days. We focus on understanding their vision, wants, and needs. We listen so that we understand the kind of support they need from us.

Collaboration is at the core of our approach. We’ve built a community of top-tier professionals ready to make all of our events exceptional. Our philosophy is all about transparency, giving our clients honest recommendations and connecting them with vendors who match their vision and needs.

While our team is highly experienced and detail-oriented, we pride ourselves on not being overbearing, too strict, or demanding. Our genuine love for clients and deep concern for their well-being shine through in every interaction. Our goal is to consistently create extraordinary, one-of-a-kind events that authentically represent who our clients are and what they love. We are committed to honoring their story through every detail of the planning experience.

Above all, we understand that beautiful, thoughtful events are not an accident. They are a result of commitment, focus, intelligent planning, and a little magic.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
The person who taught me the most about work is my mother. She raised me (and my siblings) as a single parent, and from a very young age, I saw what dedication, resilience, and integrity looked like in action.

There was never a big speech about work ethic, she just lived it every day. Whether she was juggling multiple responsibilities or finding creative ways to make things happen, she showed me that hard work isn’t just about pushing through, it’s about showing up with grace, consistency, and care.

Now, as a woman in my 40s running my own business, I realize how much of her example shaped me. The balance she struck between strength and compassion influences how I lead, how I treat my clients, and how I approach challenges. She taught me that real success isn’t loud or showy, it’s steady, it’s earned, and it’s deeply personal.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There was absolutely a time I almost gave up, in 2020, when the pandemic brought the entire events industry to a standstill. Overnight, every wedding I had on the calendar was either postponed or canceled, and the future felt completely uncertain. I remember sitting at my desk wondering if my business, the one I had poured my heart, energy, money, and identity into would survive, or if I’d have to walk away from the work I loved.

During that time, my mom came to the rescue, the same woman who raised me as a single mother and taught me what hard work and resilience really look like. She reminded me of who I am, that we don’t give up, that we problem-solve, adapt, and move forward no matter how tough things get. That conversation was a turning point.

I realized I could either focus on what I couldn’t control or lean into what I could: creativity, connection, and care. So I pivoted, reimagined what events could look like, and started helping couples plan intimate celebrations that still felt special, even in uncertain times. That period tested everything I knew about business and resilience, but it also clarified my purpose. Looking back, I’m grateful I didn’t give up because it shaped the way I lead, plan, design, and support my clients today.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes. The public version of me is absolutely the real me. I pride myself on being transparent and genuine in every part of my life and work. What you see is what you get. I don’t believe in creating a separate “business persona” because authenticity is at the heart of what I do.

Of course, there are moments when professionalism comes into play, certain situations require composure, grace, and focus, but even then, I’m still fully myself. The tone might shift, but the essence never does. I think people can sense when someone is real, and that trust and connection are everything in this industry. My clients invite me into one of the most personal chapters of their lives, and I believe they deserve to work with someone who shows up wholeheartedly, both personally and professionally.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Absolutely. I believe you should always give your best, not for praise or recognition, but because it’s a reflection of your own standards and integrity. The work I do means something to me personally, and I want to know that I’ve shown up fully, regardless of who’s watching.

In this industry, so much happens behind the scenes, the long hours, the problem-solving, the quiet details that no one ever notices, and that’s okay! The satisfaction comes from knowing I’ve created something meaningful and beautiful, not from external validation.

Praise is wonderful, of course, but it’s fleeting. What lasts is the pride you feel in doing things the right way, staying true to your values, and delivering your best because that’s who you are, not because someone else is clapping for it. That’s the kind of fulfillment that keeps me going.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.socialmavenbuffalo.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialmavenbuffalo/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/socialmavenbuffalo/

Image Credits
Moonshine Photography
Casey LaFountain
Alyssa Flood Photo
Melody Lane Photography