Jaqui Marier led the design of the miniature golf course at the Rescue Mission of Trenton. Inspired by classic films, world famous architecture and cultural themes, Jaqui transformed The Mission’s fourth floor into an 18-hole masterpiece. Leading up to the 22nd annual golf fundraiser, Jaqui sat down for a Q&A to share more about her experience with The Mission.
How did the opportunity to design The Mission’s miniature golf course come about?
The opportunity to work on the mini-golf course arose shortly after I started working at the Rescue Mission of Trenton. Mary Ann Rexrode, who was running the event at the time and knew of my love for all things artistic or creative, approached me and asked for my help with one of the holes. This was back when the golf course ran through the halls of Vince’s Place and parts of the women’s shelter. The props were much smaller back then! The entire course had to be set up and taken down in a single day. It was hectic and, at times, chaotic, but I loved it and couldn’t wait to volunteer again the following year. As the years went on and more space became available, Justin Cardin, a talented carpenter in his own rights, was hired to redesign and rebuild the holes to make them more technical. With the course in a more permanent location, I was thrilled to be given the opportunity to design and decorate using bigger, better, and even “life-size” props. It was a challenge that I looked forward to every year.
What does it mean to you to be able to support The Mission with this project?
It means a lot to me to be able to participate in the mini-golf event. Giving back to the Mission community in any way I can is incredibly important to me. While I am not a counselor and cannot directly help someone find housing, I can make a golf course look like a stroll down the Yellow Brick Road in The Wizard of Oz, or a thrilling escape from the T-Rex in Jurassic Park! I like to think that if these designs can excite people to play a round of mini-golf and perhaps leave a donation, then this is my way of using my unique skills to help the Mission help others.
What was your inspiration/vision in the miniature golf design?
I get most of my ideas and inspiration from movies, focusing on widely recognizable themes that people can easily relate to. I love creating fun, colorful designs that draw players in and make them feel entirely immersed in the scene. It truly makes my day when I catch someone smiling because they noticed a small detail-like a Card Soldier who isn’t quite finished painting the roses red, or a baby dinosaur hatching in the corner!
Who helped you with the design process and the construction?
Over the years, I have received so much help with both the design and construction processes from so many people; I never feel like I am working on this alone. I am incredibly grateful for all the support I get, from family and friends to my coworkers (shout out to Phill!) and Vince’s Place Clients. This year, I hope to get some help and inspiration directly from the players! While I have multiple ideas, there is never enough time-so, what hole should I design next?
Which design is your personal favorite?
My personal favorite design was the retired Harry Potter hole, which I built when my children were still young. Seeing their amazement as props from their favorite movies were being constructed right in front of them made the whole experience magical for me, too. If I had to select one of the current holes, I would have to say The Wizard of Oz has gotten the most compliments; the Tin Man really draws a lot of attention. But I think my true favorite is yet to come. Stay tuned!
Why is the Rescue Mission important?
The Rescue Mission of Trenton is important because of the work that they do. The Mission feeds those that are hungry, houses those that are homeless and counsels those in recovery. This is important work that takes a community of people helping people.
Register for the Miniature Golf Event at: https://rescuemissionoftrenton.org/golf/
