I always get excited when I get a call or text from my long time client Alicia Makaye for portraits or event coverage. Alicia is the Vice President of GXA IT Solutions alongside her husband George Makaye and they are one of the most generous, dedicated and genuine couples that I have met. Over the years I have watched them grow and it has been amazing to see and hear how far they have come with their IT company. They do so much out in the community, but this time the community came out to them.
Alicia conversing with a visitor about the newly acquired building.
Networking & Tour
Patrons came from all over to view this lovely space and there was a variety of sponsors in attendance as well. Bites were provided by SoulGood, a photo booth was set up by Photosbypjp, sweet treats were provided by BBVA and real estate professionals Alt+Co were in attendance to show support. This headquarters had so many wonderful amenities. A fully stocked break-room, a makeup room just in case someone needs to get photoshoot ready, lol! A nap room guys…Need I say more? When I found out about that I considered putting in a good ol’ application myself! In the middle of the space is a prayer room where you can go to be at peace, meditate, and just focus. The dynamic duo really put some thought into this space. It really is a sight to see and it is definitely a privilege to work there.
Snip, Snip…
The event had such a great turnout. There were visitors that came from all around the community from church members, employees and even people who just so happened to be passing by. I have been to ribbon cutting events in the past, but this is the first time that I attended one where there were two cutting ceremonies. The Richardson Chamber of Commerce as well as the Plano Chamber both visited and spoke to George and Alicia before the ribbon cuttings. They were more than excited to welcome the couple and congratulate them on their new space which happens to be prime real estate in the middle of an area that continues to grow. GXA are now neighbors to Texas Instruments, United Health Care, State Farm over in Cityline, UT Dallas and various other businesses. Plano Chamber of Commerce member Ron Schoof was very welcoming during his speech to the new members. One of the things that came up the most throughout the day was how much that George and Alicia enjoy to give. They have such big hearts and their love for philanthropy has always been a topic that they hold dear. I remember a few years back I was shooting an office party for GXA and Alicia told this story of how she was volunteering at Minnie’s Food Pantry earlier that day. She was so moved by a lady that she had encountered who had a young child and they had no place to stay nor food. She went on to tell the crowd how she and the founder of Minnie’s Food Pantry took the lady to the store and got food, toiletries as well as getting them set up in a hotel. I say this because one of the things Alicia said when she was addressing everyone at the ribbon cutting was, “Before anything else, we are givers.” I think everyone in attendance had known that prior to coming out.
“Before anything else, we are givers…”
This was a great event for an outstanding team. I am beyond happy for George and Alicia on their new adventure as a couple and as professionals. Every time I encounter them I am hearing a story of personal growth not only about them, but the people around them as well. I absolutely cannot wait until we connect again to talk about what they are up to next.