“Living in Philly” interview series where realtor Cherise Wynne (“Agent Lady”) highlights interesting people & organizations in the civic, real estate, restaurant and lifestyle space that help first time home buyers navigate our great city of Philadelphia.
Meet Gina, Sales & Business Development
Agent Lady: When people ask that famous question “what do you do”, how do you typically answer?
Gina: I work in sales & business development for Marriott International to support local companies and organizations in Philadelphia with their hotel accommodation, meeting and event needs.
Agent Lady: What does Marriott do, what neighborhood(s) does it provide products/services in, and what do you find special about those Philly areas?
Gina: With so many Marriott brands available in Philadelphia and its surrounding suburbs, Marriott makes it easy for people to come experience ALL areas of Philadelphia, and each one is worth visiting. Book a stay, come visit, and then book your next stay before your leave. You’ll want to come back.
Agent Lady: If you had to choose between a Philly cheesesteak or a Philly pretzel, which would you choose?
Gina: I’m a carb freak so it’s a Philly Pretzel – no contest. The pretzel dog at Miller’s Pretzel at Reading Terminal Market is one of my favorites. I know it’s not your typical Philly soft pretzel, but it’s the perfect cheat day indulgence and something I always recommend to people visiting the city. Plus you get to walk through the Reading Terminal Market which is, in my opinion, one of the most unique attractions in Philly.
Agent Lady: What’s the biggest misconception people have about your industry or type of organization?
Gina: I’m not sure. Maybe that the people work in hospitality as a last resort. While sometimes that may be the case, a lot of us chose this industry – and hoteliers in particular chose an industry that is open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day and still come to work with a smile.
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Agent Lady: What is the nerdiest thing you do in your spare time?
Gina: I’m that annoying friend that always has their camera out, “documenting the moment”. Of my morning latte at my favorite coffee shop. A unique doorway I’m passing by. More food related things than I can count, really anything around me that catches my attention, which is a lot when you leave in Philly (or any major city). I also have a really bad habit of making “friends” with any cute dog I see being walked around the city. I’ll go out of my way to cross a street, or pickup my pace by just a step or two so I can ask their owner if I can pet them. That’s pretty nerdy, but you’d be surprised how many people are so open to letting you cuddle and fuss over their dog.
Agent Lady: What is your favorite word?
Gina: Euphoria. I first heard it in a Jimi Hendrix song when I was learning to play guitar and discovering the music of the 60’s for the first time. It stuck with me ever since. I still try and sneak it in to conversation whenever possible. It tends to happens a lot when I talk about food.
Agent Lady: If you had to pick another career what would it be?
Gina: I frequently make the joke that if I wasn’t working in hotel sales I’d want to be a self-proclaimed “Ambassador of Philly”. In the real world that would involve working for the CVB so I could promote Philadelphia to the whole world. I’ll talk your ear off and gush about this city for as long as you’ll listen. Most of my conversations begin with “You have to check out…” or “have you been too”. If you tell me you don’t like Philly, I’m going to try and convince you otherwise.
Agent Lady: For anyone looking to buy their first home in Philly or move to the Philly area, what do you have to say to them?
Gina: Do it. Don’t wait. Don’t be like me. When my now husband and I got engaged, we thought we needed to move to suburbs since we were getting married, and kids were probably in the near future. Not even two years into living in our home, we realized that we weren’t ready for the “white picket fence suburban dream”, and we were okay with that. We sold our house, moved to center city and never looked back. Living here is amazing, and I feel lucky every single day that I get to call this city home.
Agent Lady: If someone wanted to learn more about you or Marriott, where could they go?
For me – follow me on Instagram @gigibaldino
For Marriott visit Marriott.com
Thank so much to Gina for stopping by and sharing some fun and useful facts with the Agent Lady audience. Also big shout out to Marriott for providing a nice place to stay to those visiting Philadelphia. If this article inspired you, please support and spread the word to all of the people in your network. If you never want to miss another Living In Philly interview or helpful home buying blog post, you have to signup for the newsletter. Until next time, stay awesome people!
About Agent Lady: Cherise Wynne is a leading real estate agent in Philadelphia, helping home buyers and sellers navigate the City of Brotherly Love, with a special focus on first time home buyers. To chat about getting started with your first time home buying experience, call 215-518-5193 click here.
