get to know Us
Our Heart, your milestones
At Laurel Bell Event Center, every celebration is crafted with the same warmth, care, and intention we bring to our own family gatherings. After purchasing the long-loved Bell’s Banquets, we set out to preserve its legacy while bringing new life to the space. The name Laurel Bell honors both the beauty of the Laurel Highlands and the Bell family who poured their hearts into this venue for decades.
Our Story
We’re Matt, Millena, Jess, and CJ, and together we’ve embraced the opportunity to carry forward a beloved gathering place into a new chapter. The Laurel Bell builds on more than 25 years of celebrations under the Bell’s Banquets name, but our focus is firmly on the future — creating an inviting, versatile venue for life’s most meaningful moments.
Though our paths to this point have been different, we’re united by a shared passion: providing a space where people feel welcomed, cared for, and celebrated. We see The Laurel Bell not just as a venue, but as a canvas for weddings, showers, fundraisers, milestone birthdays, corporate gatherings — any occasion where connection matters.
Every detail we plan, from the flow of the rooms to the warmth of our service, is chosen with your experience in mind. Our goal is simple: to make The Laurel Bell a place where your guests feel at home and your memories can unfold into something unforgettable.
Meet The Team
jess shimko
Venue Director
Jessica has always loved creating spaces where people can gather, connect, and celebrate life’s milestones. With a background in Communications, Fine Arts, Education, and Entrepreneurship, along with years of experience helping to plan and manage events, she brings a thoughtful balance of creativity and organization to The Laurel Bell. What she enjoys most is listening to a couple’s or family’s vision and helping it unfold seamlessly, so the day feels effortless, meaningful, and truly unforgettable.
cj matone
facilities Director
As a seasoned general contractor and longtime business owner, CJ brings invaluable skill to both the upkeep and evolution of The Laurel Bell. His problem-solving mindset, people-first approach, and ability to transform spaces ensure that each event vision is not only realized but elevated.
millena ellis
operations Director
Millena’s extensive background in managing entertainment venues has equipped her with the expertise to keep both the front and back of house running seamlessly. She is a natural leader with an eye for detail, ensuring that every event flows effortlessly while guests feel truly cared for. Her ability to balance operations with hospitality makes her a cornerstone of The Laurel Bell, and her dedication helps transform ordinary gatherings into extraordinary experiences.
Matt Caldwell
HR Director
Matt wears many hats at The Laurel Bell, serving as our head of HR and a trusted support wherever he’s needed most. With a background in the medical field and extensive knowledge of psychology, he brings a thoughtful, people-first approach to every interaction. His ability to understand and connect with others makes him a steady presence behind the scenes and a key part of ensuring every event runs smoothly.