About Up the River Events
Our Story
At Up the River Events, we are passionate about creating unforgettable experiences. Our journey began in 2023 when we realized that there was a need for a more personalized approach to event production in the Lower Hudson Valley area. Today, we continue to innovate and push boundaries to provide our clients with the best possible service.
Our Team
Our team is made up of dedicated professionals with years of experience in the event industry. We work closely with our clients to understand their unique needs and create a customized plan that exceeds their expectations. From event planners to technical experts, we have the skills to bring any vision to life.
Our Services
We offer a wide range of event production services, including lighting, sound, video, staging, decor, and more. Our team has the expertise and experience to handle any event, from small private parties to large-scale productions. We use the latest technology and equipment and leverage our partnerships to deliver exceptional results.
Up the River Events leadership
Bill Votava, President
Dr. Gayle Marchica, Vice-President
Dr. Gayle Marchica, Vice-President
Playing drums and percussion professionally since age 14, plus 27 years as a professional in the Hospitality, Catering and Event industries, has well prepared UTRE President Bill Votava for the task of bringing stellar events to completion. Bill forges long lasting partnerships that drive outstanding, successful Events
Dr. Gayle Marchica, Vice-President
Dr. Gayle Marchica, Vice-President
Dr. Gayle Marchica, Vice-President
Gayle brings a mountain of Event experience to the team. During her tenure as President of the Ossining Chamber of Commerce, Gayle organized and operated 8 consecutive successful Annual Ossining Village Fairs, and a host of other community-based events, for 30 guests up to 13,000. Her skill, knowledge and patience affords UTRE the ability to dream big!
PARTNERS and ADVISORS
Community Engagement and Resources
Sound Engineering & Stage Management
Sound Engineering & Stage Management
Jermain Smith, CEO of ENU Builds
All around great guy, who works tirelessly for the community. He needs to submit a brief bio, but is so busy doing great things for the community that he will probably take a long time to get us a bio to post here..
Sound Engineering & Stage Management
Sound Engineering & Stage Management
Sound Engineering & Stage Management
Johnny Girolamo, aka Dj Johnny G
With a background that includes being a motorcycle cop for the OPD, Chef de Cuisine at the Ossining Elks Lodge, a sound engineer, a DJ and everything in-between, Johhny's endless knowledge and advice provides UTRE with creative concepts and solutions.
Vendor Relationship Coordinator
Sound Engineering & Stage Management
Vendor Relationship Coordinator
Lauren Awerdick, President of Willow Wisp Wellness
Lauren is a pleasure to work with. She continually brings an energy and fresh ideas to every project. She specifically oversees relationships with holistic vendors for events, who vend a variety of natural products and wellness services.