Everyone has a story. Here's mine.
I have been in the meeting and event industry since 1996 as both a supplier and a planner. I understand through experience that success happens when communications, content, marketing & logistics are crafted thoughtfully.
I grew up in Dallas, Texas in a respected, successful entrepreneurial family that embraced the spirit of giving back to the community. After graduating from SMU, I opted to begin my own career in marketing by joining the family business Passbook Clubs. From my early 20's, I learned a strong work ethic and the importance of exceeding client expectations without ever compromising integrity. Ultimately, I earned respect just as my parents did, and became a trusted professional in the Dallas business community, as well.
My next business adventure took me to Five Star Limousines, and that's where I was introduced to the meetings and event industry. Entering the industry on the supplier side allowed me to experience working with so many different types of planners from all over the world. I'm a big believer in the power of people being together in person. And I love planning, both the creative side AND the fiscal side; both are equally important.
I'm an unusual breed in my field being equally skilled creatively and analytically, and have had the good fortune through the years to work closely with both corporations and non-profits; my heart is huge when it comes to guiding associations toward success. Working with committees is always challenging; there are nuances and dynamics at play, especially when volunteers are in the mix. Just as important is fiscal responsibility with realistic planning budgets to produce events, galas, conferences, donor events, and golf tournaments. Having a seasoned planner on the team makes a huge difference creatively, financially, logistically, and onsite.
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At this point in my career, clients appreciate and respect the talent and heart I bring to the table and they trust me.
With hundreds of strategic planning experiences behind me, I now focus more on design work and consulting and am comfortable working with small business owners and big box brands. Sometimes I'm brought in short-term and for other clients, I'm with them for years and I get to be part of their long-term growth and success over time.
For event or conference planning, whether the program is live, virtual, or hybrid, I'm able to effectively provide clients with planning, design, marketing, technology, stage production and virtual conference planning services.
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I've been recognized with awards by industry peers in Dallas, New York City, and New Jersey. Industry involvement and "giving back" with mentoring and producing educational programs to further the industry will always be important to me.
EDUCATION
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Southern Methodist University: MA
Southern Methodist University: BFA
INDUSTRY AWARDS
ILEA New Jersey North Chapter
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President's Award 2017
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ILEA International Best Communications International Chapter Award 2016
MPI New Jersey Chapter
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Planner of the Year 2015
MPI Greater New York Chapter:
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Planner of the Year 2009
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Chapter Manager of the Year 2008
MPI D/FW Chapter:
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President's Award 2010
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Presidents Award 2007
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Planner of the Year 2002
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Rising Star Award 1998
INDUSTRY & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Leadership Positions
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MPI New Jersey Chapter (VP of Communications)
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ILEA NJ North Chapter (VP of Education & Programs)
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ILEA NJ North (VP of Communications)
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MPI Greater New York Chapter (VP of Communication)
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MPI D/FW Chapter (VP of Communication and VP of Education)
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Junior League of the Oranges & Short Hills (Director of Communications)
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National Council of Jewish Women/Essex Section
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American Cancer Society Annual Diamond Ball (Event Production)
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American Heart Association NJ
NJ Woman of Impact Award
NJ American Heart Association Board of Directors