A Tribute to The Event & Hospitality Industry
It takes a special kind of person to be a successful event professional. I’ve learned over the years that society is fascinated by this industry. I can understand how it looks shiny and glamorous when all you see is the final product. I mean, that’s the ultimate goal and it means we’ve done our job. But I also think there is an unrealistic perception that exists thanks to Hollywood movies like The Wedding Planner (no offence). Any veteran in the business will tell you that what happens behind the scenes is anything but glitzy. And I think I speak for all of us when I say, we wouldn’t have it any other way. Because to us, it is the process and all the legwork that goes on behind the scenes to get to that final product. That is the essence of what makes this industry so magical, rewarding and captivating— beyond what meets the eye.
Quick back story. I’ve been working in hospitality for 18 years. I fell in love with the social aspect, the fast-paced environment, and the level of teamwork it takes to achieve successful results. It is an industry where I can utilize all of my skills simultaneously, like, organization, time management, creativity, social interaction, multi-tasking and logistical planning. I developed a deeper appreciation and curiosity for food and beverage when I moved downtown Toronto in 2004, and got a few real high-profile establishments under my belt. I was working in environments at the level I had only ever seen in the movies; acclaimed Chefs, A-list celebrities and first-class venues. I developed strong relationships with people who I found to be truly influential, they became my mentors.
Before I turned 22, I had worked every department available in a restaurant. Not only because I was quite the little hustler, but back then you had to work kitchen shifts, bus tables and wash dishes before you were allowed to put on the server uniform. I wish that was still the case today, I believe everyone should have to wash dishes and serve tables in a restaurant at some point in their life. I digress. Eventually the lifestyle and late hours were no longer aligning with my long-term goals. I had dabbled in events over the years in my various roles. It seemed like a good move for me so I decided that’s what I would try next. I landed my first event planning role at a prestigious venue in the core of the city. This was an extremely demanding venue where I was a one woman show. I had no idea what I was doing, but I would come to figure it out with the support of my teammates and leaders. This was the most challenging job I had ever experienced. I was learning new things every day and meeting extraordinary people in the process. I had officially found my career.
I continued to climb up the ladder and try various roles in different environments. Now here I am today, 18 years deep, and I have had the absolute pleasure of directing some of the most prominent and influential hospitality teams while producing first-class events from weddings, corporate dinners and galas, team building, charitable events, sporting events, political state dinners, holiday parties, trade shows, and celebrity, TIFF and media events. I’m very grateful for having the privilege to be part of this stimulating industry.
There are many reasons why I love this business so much. Events are about bringing people together and creating powerful experiences. Amazing things happen when people meet. They learn, inspire one another, innovate new ideas and sometimes even change the world. I treat each and every event like a blank canvas, both aesthetically and experientially— they go hand in hand. Whether event planners are born or made, it takes a certain type of individual to be truly successful. So, allow me to share just some of the reasons why I think we ALL love this job.
People— The event industry would be nothing without the people. Events are about bringing people together, sharing collective passions and fostering relationships. Event planning requires teamwork and collaboration with others. You need to be able to bounce ideas off of one another, problem solve and celebrate the victories. The job can be heavy on the logistics and planning, but the primary role is to make people happy. And there is no template for that.
Results— Every day is different. The greatest event pros will be largely driven by results. Like transforming a drab room into a magical space or having a multi-day workshop go off without a hitch. That’s our fuel! There is no better feeling than watching the results of weeks, months and sometimes even years of hard work and planning unfold. Even though we work heavily behind the scenes, when you can take a moment to soak it all up, it is incredibly fulfilling!
Events are about bringing people together,
sharing collective passions and fostering relationships.
Variety— In the world of events, we are always on our toes with no time for monotony. Event pros do not have set structure and working days. An admin day at your desk means assuming multiple different roles. We need to be quick thinkers and have the ability to change directions with little to no notice. The job is to serve our clients, and every single client wants a unique experience. Nothing ever stays the same, from trends to initiatives, technology, etc. Because every event is so different, you’re constantly juggling multiple projects at once and re-inventing the wheel— a significant part of the journey.
Problem Solving— The industry is fast paced, competitive, the pressure and stakes are always high. Many of us thrive in this type of environment, but you’ve got to have some thick skin to be able to overcome the challenges. Short lead times, restrictive budgets and high client expectations influence us to be innovating new ideas constantly. Our day-to-day challenges include (but are not limited to) working with unforeseen circumstances, difficult people, overcoming obstacles or even selling more tickets. It’s these challenges that make event planning exciting though, because there is always opportunity to shine and make everything possible!
Flexibility— Once you’ve entered the world of hospitality, working a 9-5 job does not feel appealing. The work is demanding, but managing deadlines and clients efficiently is a key indicator of success in this business. Event planning is generally project based and a lot of the back-end work can be done remotely. Some of us are more productive in the morning, others late at night. Ultimately, you can control your schedule and there can be quite a bit of flexibility, that is, if you learn how to work smart.
Making Dreams Come True— For me, there is no better feeling than making someone’s dream come true. Event planners often endure many challenges along the way as they work to create a vision they’ve been planning in their mind. Whether a fashion show, charitable gala, social gathering, serving the Prime Minister, a fairy-tale wedding, or a conference, we will never tire from the satisfaction of watching the plan unfold. Seeing the joy on our clients face despite the challenges, is the ultimate reward!
Special credit to the collaborators who contributed to the images featured in this blog— Warehouse 84, Wendy Alana Photography, Simply Beautiful Décor, Sanford Hall at Westinghouse HQ, StatueRue, The Dessert Room, Riley + Dallas, Yourtan, Charles & Hunt, Polished, Brush Beauty Bar, Equal Parts Hospitality, Solee Shoes, Stately Jewellery, Bella Mia Bridal, Laura Tedesco Jewellery, Love Madly Weddings, Special Event Rentals.
Creativity— Planning events can be an amazing expression of your personality and for me, I’ve never liked being put into a mold. Templates exist of course, but the important thing is to have the ability to think outside of the box and make it work. I am an innovator and a creator; there are logistics that need to be taken into account, but there is no box. From concept to execution, as an event pro, you have the opportunity to explore your creativity and see an idea turn into reality. I’ve always felt events to be the best of both worlds, an even split between creative and logistics.
I truly could go on, as there are so many wonderful layers to this business. I was inspired to write this blog as a tribute to the hospitality industry, which is currently in a state of crisis and it is in need of immediate support by the government and beyond. A powerful coalition of independent Canadian restaurateurs and suppliers have come together to create a unified voice. Over 1,000 businesses and 60,000 laid off employees are represented here. To align with and support this initiative please visit www.savehospitality.ca and submit your information. Your contribution will help make a greater impact!
Thank you to the industry leaders, vendors, clients and colleagues who have and continue to support me in my journey in hospitality. I have made lifelong friends who play a significant role in my life today, including my best friend, my greatest confidants and my husband. I am so grateful to know each of you and to have had the pleasure of working together over the years. I love coaching and mentoring young people entering the industry, it is my greatest pride and accomplishment— see you soon!
#SAVEHOSPITALITYCA