Let’s face it: Event Management professionals are already mentally in 2026 and beyond, so when the holidays come around, it’s easy to get swept up in the magic, the meetings, and the merriment and forego the very-important administrative tasks you’ve avoided all calendar year so far. Not to worry! With a few weeks left, we’ve got you covered. This article will cover our top tips for event management professionals to be prepared for the New Year. My advice? Set a timer for each. Put on some Christmas Carols or Holiday Classics if you want to.

Today, I’m spilling the tea.

In my decades of event management and strategic event development, there are a few top questions that come up over and over. In this blog, I’m sharing the answers to those questions. Bookmark for your 2026 planning!

“I look at the big picture before I look at the details. That’s how I plan events with impact.”

My conversation with Eric Rozenberg on the Business of Meetings podcast was so enjoyable! He brings so much knowledge and passion for the industry to the table, and I absolutely loved learning more about him and sharing more about my story.

The holidays are here, and we’re still over here trying not to shop on Amazon (no matter how tempting it may be!) Luckily, we have traveled to many locations over the years that have great, local options to choose from. Below is a favorite, unique gift idea from every city we’ve managed events in. If you’re from the cities below, comment with your favorite local treat or maker!

In the fight against hunger, each of us has a part to play. When community members come together to raise funds and donate food to local food banks, it can multiply the impact of going at it alone.

We know that the demand for food has multiplied in recent months; here’s how event professionals can help, just by expanding their existing events and programming.

Earlier this year, I deleted the Amazon app off of my phone.

In the months before I quit, I noticed that I had been making increasingly impulsive purchases. Not only that, but I was spending money on things that I either already had in some shape or form (like skincare, decor, or household essentials), could get relatively simply from a local establishment, or—and this was a big one—didn’t need in the first place.

Read on for what these lessons mean for the Event Planning Industry!

Image: Craig Barritt

As you may know, Heidi Klum has been hosting Hollywood’s most iconic Halloween parties for decades.

From the theme to her costume, it’s as anticipated as the Met Gala, and has as much buzz on social media to boot.

This Halloween, we’re taking you through 25 years of Heidi Klum’s Haunted Halloween Extravaganza, from the theme to the destination to the costumes.

I remember when I was early in my career, and all people could talk about was Millennials. Our thought patterns, purchasing decisions, and life milestone dates were the topic of countless conversations and think pieces. As a Millennial, I of course need to pass the torch and write about the next Generation: Z. Once again, younger attendees are shaping the future of how we gather. Let’s talk about it!

Abercrombie Fierce Cologne. Gap Dream Perfume. Vacation Sunscreen. Marriott Hotels. What do these brands have in common?

Each of them uses scent to create an immersive (and unforgettable) experience for its customers. It is said colloquially that smell is the scent most closely associated with memory, but did you know there is scientific studies to back up the power of incorporating all 5 senses, but specifically the sense of smell, into events?

In my interview with Byrne Production Services on the Production Value Matters Podcast, I was asked my opinion on the most valuable investment for events, and what is a waste of time and money? My answers may surprise you.

Which question do you think is skipped or fibbed most on my intake form? If you guessed Budget, you are correct! It’s daunting to lay out all of the potential expenses and investments into an event, but it’s absolutely imperative. I’ll show you my no-nonsense strategic budgeting tool: Airtable.

You’re looking to hire an event professional, but are not sure of the exact title, description of responsibilities, or how much to pay them. Time is of the essence in events, so I’ll help you answer this question: Are you looking for an Event Coordinator or Event Director?