In the heart of downtown Bowling Green, there's a remarkable story of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of a better life. Meet the Simic family, who, like many others, fled the ravages of the Bosnian war in the 90s to embark on a journey to America, seeking a chance to build a brighter future for the generations to come.
Jake and Nella Simic, both natives of Bosnia, shared a life together in their homeland until the war disrupted everything they knew. Faced with the harsh realities of conflict, the;iy made the courageous decision to leave and find a new beginning for their family.
The Simics were among the countless refugees navigating the challenges of transitioning from a war-torn homeland to a new country. With young daughter Gabi Simic in tow, they arrived in America on October 1st, 1995. Their daughter, Laurie Simic Isaacs, was born just a month later.
Despite the initial struggles, Jake Simic found employment at a factory before venturing into the restaurant business. In 1998, he opened Brickyard, a cafe that marked the family's first foray into the event business. They purchased a neighboring building, which they rented out for various events and weddings.
In 2012, the family shifted their focus entirely to the event industry, undertaking significant renovations to transform their space. The result was La Gala, a stunning Event Center that opened its doors in 2013. The venue quickly gained a reputation for hosting memorable events, reflecting the Simic family's dedication to creating special moments for their clients.
Fast forward to April 2021, and a new chapter unfolded for La Gala. Jake Simic gracefully stepped down from the forefront, assuming a more behind-the-scenes role. This transition paved the way for Laurie Simic Isaacs and her husband, Blake Isaacs, to step up as the new event managers of La Gala.
The Simic family's journey from the challenges of war-torn Bosnia to the vibrant success of La Gala showcases their resilience, hard work, and commitment to creating a legacy in their new home. It's a testament to the power of family, determination, and the pursuit of dreams, and La Gala stands as a living testament to the Simic family's triumph over adversity.