Inspiring Conversations with Jennifer Hartman of Sun Valley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Hartman.

Hi Jennifer, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
The path from college graduate to business partner in one of Cleveland’s premier event venues has been anything but linear. After earning my BA in Arts, I spent time working for Nickelodeon in Orlando, where I developed a passion for storytelling through television production.

When I relocated to Northeast Ohio, I began searching for a way to channel that creative energy into something that served this community. The answer became clear: event production.

In 2014, I founded Heart 2 Heart Occasions, built on the belief that just like television shows and films, weddings and special events each have a unique story waiting to be told.

In 2019, I partnered with two incredible industry leaders to purchase Sun Valley, a private event venue set on 25 beautiful acres in Chagrin Falls. Today, I continue to lead Heart 2 Heart Occasions while also co-owning and operating Sun Valley, bringing years of planning experience and creative storytelling to couples celebrating their biggest moments.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I wouldn’t say the road has always been smooth, like most entrepreneurs, there have been plenty of challenges along the way. Building businesses while raising a family, which now encompasses a doting husband and 3 daughters (a teenager and tween twins), certainly keeps life full and busy. The wedding and events industry also requires constant creativity and adaptability. But those challenges are also what make the work so rewarding. Being able to help couples celebrate such meaningful moments makes every long day worth it.

We’ve been impressed with Sun Valley, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Sun Valley is a private event venue located on 25 beautiful acres in Chagrin Falls, designed to feel both elegant and welcoming. Our goal has always been to create a space where couples can celebrate in a setting that feels timeless, personal, and thoughtfully designed.

What sets Sun Valley apart is that it is owned and operated by industry professionals who have spent decades working directly in the events and wedding world. Because of that experience, every aspect of the venue, from the layout to the service flow, was created with both couples and vendors in mind. We understand what it takes behind the scenes to make an event run seamlessly, and that perspective helps us deliver an experience that feels effortless for our clients.

We’re especially known for our warm, hands-on approach and the flexibility we offer couples in designing a day that truly reflects them. Whether it’s an outdoor ceremony overlooking the property, a candlelit reception in our dining space, or the countless personal details couples bring to life, Sun Valley is meant to be a place where celebrations feel both elevated and comfortable.

Brand-wise, what I’m most proud of is the reputation I’ve built for creating events that feel intentional and memorable. We’re not just providing a venue, we’re helping couples tell their story and create a celebration that their families and friends will remember long after the night is over.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
One of the things I love most about this industry is that we get to be part of some of the most meaningful days in people’s lives. Weddings and celebrations bring together families, friends, and generations in a way that doesn’t happen very often. Being trusted with those moments is something I never take for granted. My goal has always been to create spaces and experiences where people can truly be present, celebrate, and make memories they’ll carry with them for years.

Pricing:

• Venue rental ranges from $6500 to $3500
• We offer bar packages and beautiful enhancements they can add to their day

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sunvalleyohio.com
• Instagram: @sunvalleyohio
• Facebook: @sunvalleyohio
• Other: https://www.theknot.com/marketplace/sun-valley-chagrin-falls-oh-2030692