The Event Narrative

Back from IMEX and counting down the final 30 days to marathon day! This picture sums up running and event planning for me. Most might see this and think, “What a gloomy day.” But as a runner, this is the perfect weather—overcast skies before the rain to keep things cool and comfortable. I’m watching my pace drop, heart rate steady, and feeling ready for race day. As a planner, this is exactly where we shine. Late shipment, agenda running over, can’t find the speaker who’s up in five minutes? No problem—we’ve got it covered! When people ask, “How do you do it?” I simply say: I wouldn’t have it any other way. Planners have a special knack for turning those gray skies bright, just like that peak of blue breaking through the clouds in this picture. Whether running a marathon or running an event, we embrace the challenges and transform them into success. Let’s go! #TheEventNarrative #EventPlanner #BlackOwnedBusiness #WomanOwnedBusiness

I’m ready to step away from the office (even if it’s my home office) and get back to face-to-face time with my community at IMEX! I’m so excited to see familiar faces, meet new ones, and connect over the event stories that we all certainly have. I can't wait to exchange tips on how to excel within our industry, learn more about exciting new locations, and, of course, bring all this knowledge and inspiration back to my clients. As usual, I’m prepping for the trip—planning outfits, setting appointments, getting my hair and nails done...you know, the usual. But this time, there’s more: I’m exactly 42 days out from my marathon! So, in addition to event prep, I’m also planning my runs, making sure I fuel my body properly, and prioritizing rest. I can’t wait to see everyone there, and I hope if you see me before I see you, you’ll stop me to connect! Safe travels to all heading to IMEX! ✈️

Managing vendors and logistics can feel like balancing on a tightrope—one misstep, and things could quickly fall apart. The key to success? Building strong relationships and ensuring clear, consistent communication. I’m proud to have deep relationships with all my partners, some spanning decades. Our connections go beyond the projects we’re working on—it’s a relationship rooted in mutual success. From learning new trends and overcoming challenges together to sharing must-visit restaurants in every city, my partners are friends and part of the success behind every event. Want a partner who values strong relationships and seamless execution? Let’s connect—click the link on the page for a free consultation!

When budgets are tight, every dollar needs to work harder. The good news? You don’t need a Beyoncé budget to have Beyoncé dreams—we can get you there! By focusing on what truly matters and negotiating smartly, you can maximize your event’s impact without breaking the bank. 1. Start with clear goals and stick to them—every decision should support your objectives. 2. Prioritize spending on areas that will drive measurable ROI. 3. Negotiate with vendors for the best value, not just the lowest price. Let’s make your budget work! Click the Book an Appointment link on my page for a free consultation.

When I was young in the industry, the phrase that would really make my ears steam was, “This isn’t my first rodeo.” I remember thinking, “Yeah, grandma, no one’s questioning that” (I know, rude). But I DISTINCTLY replied, “It may not be your first rodeo, but I’m the one that planned it.” Ah, the confidence of being a know-it-all newcomer! But NOW, looking back, I understand what was really being said (now that I can get past the delivery). I’ve seen it all—tight deadlines, unexpected changes, and the constant balancing act of staying on budget while delivering excellence. Experience isn’t just about knowing what can go wrong; it’s about knowing how to pivot when things do. The mistakes were made, the lessons were learned (and continue to be), and now I help my clients and future planners avoid those same missteps. That’s why my clients trust me to anticipate needs, navigate obstacles, and create seamless, impactful events.

I’m honored to be featured in HopSkip’s "Event Architects to Know in 2024"! Being recognized for the work I do as Founder & CEO of The Event Narrative is truly a testament to the power of storytelling through events. This journey has been about more than just logistics; it’s about crafting experiences that align with clients' goals and deliver measurable impact. Huge thanks to the team at HopSkip for this recognition. Check out the full article here:https://zurl.co/qhjr

Will you be attending IMEX this year? I remember my first time—filled with anxiety, unsure if I was doing it right, and knowing no one. One person reached out and became my guide, helping me navigate the massive floor. Now, after years of attending, I’ve learned how to make the most of the experience: I connect with contacts before the event. Familiar faces always help! I don’t overbook meetings. I leave space for spontaneous conversations and connections. Despite the busy days, I still get my runs in. This means early nights and limiting alcohol. If you’re new to IMEX and need a buddy, I’m here to help! It’s more fun when you have someone to ask, “Do you know X?” or “Where is booth 1,888,999?” 😄 Let me be your guide and introduce you to some of my favorite people! Will you be at IMEX? Let me know below so we can schedule some time to connect!

As we navigate a busy Labor Day weekend, the ongoing strikes by hotel workers across major cities highlight the critical importance of our service industry. At least 10,000 unionized workers have walked off the job, affecting properties in Boston, San Francisco, Seattle, Honolulu, and more. These strikes remind us that the heart of any successful event or stay lies in the dedication of the front-desk staff, housekeepers, and other essential employees. At The Event Narrative, we understand the value that service workers bring to every experience. A seamless event isn’t just about the venue or the agenda—it’s about the people who make it happen. This is why we prioritize strong partnerships with venues and service providers, ensuring that every detail is managed with care and respect for the workers who make it all possible. https://lnkd.in/gQdM8AqE

Planning an event without aligning it with your company’s strategic goals is like navigating without a compass. Every detail, from the agenda to the attendee experience, should reflect the bigger picture. When your events are in sync with your business objectives, the results are more impactful, meaningful, and long-lasting.

Every event has a story to tell, but if we can't measure its impact, how do we justify its value? It's not just about filling seats—it's about proving that every dollar spent brings a return. When your event aligns with your company’s strategic goals, ROI isn’t just a number; it’s a narrative of success that resonates long after the event ends. #TheEventNarrative #EventPlanner #BlackOwnedBusiness #WomanOwnedBusiness