Daily Inspiration: Meet Leah Schwersinske

Today we’d like to introduce you to Leah Schwersinske.

Hi Leah, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I had always dreamed of being a professional ballerina, but when my body had other plans, I pivoted and pursued a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design, graduating in 2009. During this time, I continued to work in fine dining and the hospitality industry, which helped shape my understanding of service, ambiance, and guest experience.

My love for music and entertainment has always been strong. I supported my husband’s DJ career, organized parties, and eventually worked at a record label. In 2013, while working at an interior design firm, I was offered the opportunity to plan events for Playground Bar & Lounge in Tucson, AZ. It was the perfect fit—allowing me to bring together all my skills: designing floor plans, curating decor, programming entertainment, upholding high standards of hospitality, and creating meaningful human connections through unforgettable events.

This became my calling—my passion and my lifelong career.

As Seven Corners Management has grown, so has my role. I am now the Event Director for Playground, Hub, and Corbett’s. Being a Tucson native, I take pride in partnering with local organizations and nonprofits, showcasing my dedication to the community I love.

Our team culture is incredibly special, built on a strong sense of camaraderie across all our venues. I’m deeply driven by the opportunity to provide joy during life’s challenging moments—whether through a themed party that invites guests to dance the night away or a heartfelt wedding celebration.

Before every event, during lineup, I remind the team: “This venue is a theater, this space is your stage, and tonight—we’re putting on a show.”

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Some people know from a young age what they want to be when they grow up—like saying, “I want to be a doctor.” But for me, the path wasn’t so straightforward. It took over a decade to discover my place in the event industry, and during that time, I often struggled with feeling lost or like something was missing in my professional life.

I graduated during the housing bubble for Interior Design which made it difficult to find work in my field. Later, I faced the challenges as an Event Coordinator brought on by COVID-19, when the industry—and the company I loved—was forced to close its doors for an extended period. The uncertainty was overwhelming. I feared that the one thing I was most passionate about could be changed forever.

Thankfully, the doors reopened, and the events world slowly came back to life. But the challenges haven’t ended. Now, it’s about maintaining profitability in an ever-changing economy—where the cost of goods and labor continues to rise, and profit margins are shrinking. Still, I remain passionate and committed to finding creative solutions and delivering unforgettable experiences.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
What sets me apart is how deeply I care about my guests. Every event—whether it’s for 20 or 2,000 people—matters to me. I genuinely strive to collaborate with individuals and community partners who share my values, such as Startup Tucson, Ashley La Russa with Roux Events, TENWEST, The Girl Scouts of Southern Arizona, Visit Tucson, and the LGBT Chamber of Commerce. Together, we work to create safe, welcoming gathering spaces that enrich our Tucson community.

I also love supporting local business owners, from sourcing beautiful rentals from Frostings—owned by Ludwig and Paloma Van Castro—to serving locally brewed products like Ray Ray’s Sonoran Spirit Tea, created by Rachel D’Aquisto.

With my background in design, I’m able to create immersive environments that are both transformative and memorable… and, of course, I love throwing a great, fun party!

How do you define success?
Typically, success is defined in monetary terms—but for me, it’s much more than that. I’m a very emotionally driven person, and in this industry, I believe true success lies in balance. Of course, bringing financial success to the company and its employees is important, but it has to be paired with creating meaningful, joyful experiences for our guests.

For me, success is the combination of financial sustainability, guest satisfaction, and making a positive impact on the community.

My father once told me, “As long as you’re trying your hardest every day and doing what you love, then you’re doing the best you can.” That philosophy has stayed with me—and it’s exactly what I strive for every day.

Contact Info:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-schwersinske-ab6573a2