Restaurant owner wanted to thank employees, so she closed shop and surprised them with an all-inclusive Disney World trip
Employees deserve to receive respect and rewards for their hard work and dedication. The way they’re treated at the workplace has a big impact on their performance. The State Farmers Market restaurant owner, Gypsy Gilliam, understood this concept well and decided to offer a thoughtful gift for all her employees, per WRAL News. Her gift was not some merchandise or just something for the sake of giving. Instead, she planned one of the best things to offer that had the employees in tears. The employees learned of the same through a rumor running through their kitchen — of course, they didn’t believe it.
"We were told we'd be going to Disney World and of course, nobody believed it," said Jasmine Kamel, one of the employees. The idea was way beyond their imagination and was something no boss would willingly do. The employees, too, thought they were being taken for a ride with the rumor but little did they know, it was all real. Another worker, Jessica Burr, recalled that she didn’t want to believe it and that “it was crazy.” The staff at The State Farmers Market were left stunned when it all turned out to be true. The restaurant was closed for 20 days when the employees and their families enjoyed their trip to Disney World, fulfilling dreams in the most unforgettable way.
"It was so amazing. I cried a couple of times. I could cry right now. I don't think she'll ever understand how grateful we are for what she did for us,” Kamel remarked. The restaurant shared a glimpse of the families having the time of their lives on their trip on Facebook. Right from parents, children and other family members of the employees, many were seen with a newfound joy and hope. With their Disney gear, their kids enjoying glimpses of Mickey Mouse, the scrumptious food, rides and more, the trip was a blast. What Gilliam did became a core memory, not just for the employees but for their families too. Meeting the characters and other elements at Disney World was a dream come true for the kids and a nostalgic trip down memory lane for the adults.
With kids, adults and families bonding, it was truly an experience of a lifetime. It was not just a gift Gilliam gave, it was magic. The pictures showed the brightest smiles and excitement, revealing how thankful each employee was. Many acknowledged that this gift was something they never thought they’d ever be able to witness. "I have a 5-year-old son. "I don't know what the future holds, but I know this is something I wouldn't be able to do for him. I am forever grateful to Gypsy and I don't have any idea how to pay her back,” Burr noted. The proud owner was delighted to make the arrangements and gift her staff something they truly hoped for. She was happy to see her workers take their much-needed holiday in the best way possible. She added that she was "blessed to be able to give them a little magic in their lives."