If only we could stop for a second to breathe, the field is changing so fast. With many shifts, opportunities come and go. It is almost unpredictable what the next trend will be.
Being in the profession for many years, to be exact, 37+, you would think that I have seen it all, and I love it! It never gets dull, so I decided to share a few things that bring me inspiration in the creative mind of mine!
Recognition of Expertise
Event professionals are finally getting the spotlight they deserve. We are no longer behind-the-scenes personas. Instead, people recognize and admire others’ work, something that seemed to be impossible back in the day.
Now we have dedicated events to celebrate each other. Is it not remarkable? I have seen and met rising talent, and I do not think I would have been able to if not for gatherings such as the @CSE Awards and ILEA Canada Awards, for example.
Not to mention the sense of network that brings this whole involvement to new highs. Many like-minded individuals in the same room. Pushed and encouraged to excellence.
Spark Up the New Event Planners!
I’m talking about the Gold Standard Course, your ultimate guide to navigating the complex world of events. I’ve collaborated with Dianne Devitt, a fellow industry leader with over 35 years of experience producing high-profile events, to bring you insights you can’t find without years of trial and error. In essence, we’re helping you skip the struggles we faced and fast-track your success. After all, there’s no greater investment than the one you make in yourself—especially when it comes to learning in the event world.
My Current Obligations
I have not mentioned it officially; however, I am the VP of Finance and Membership on the ILEA Canada National Board. I am incredibly proud to be part of a platform designed to inspire and motivate fresh ideas from around the world and bring them into Canada. ILEA is a place to share your passion and excellence, and to form relationships you would not find otherwise.
I would encourage others to join, or at least to dip into the event circle. You might like it.
What Brings Me Most Fulfilment
It’s no secret that there comes a time when running full-scale event productions from dawn to dusk takes a little more energy than it used to.
That’s exactly why I decided to shift gears and focus on consulting. It allows me to share decades of experience and hard-earned wisdom—without stepping completely away from the excitement of the industry I love.
What truly fills my cup is working with emerging talents and new planners. Guiding them feels a bit like being a big sister in the event world—someone who’s been through it all and is here to help you find your footing. Whether it’s offering direction, fresh ideas, or just reassurance that you’re on the right track, I’m right there cheering you on as you spread your wings.
It’s a win-win if you ask me. You gain confidence and clarity, and I get the joy of seeing the next generation thrive. Plus, let’s be honest—getting expert advice costs a lot less than producing a full-blown event!
New Takeaway
I love how the new focus is not about how big or fancy an event is, but rather how successful it was in terms of guest engagement. If guests liked the experience, they will talk about it and share on social. What brings me to my priority is to continue and encourage others to create a more personalised experience, where design is intentional and not just décor.
In other words, to give an event a different meaning, the secret is: “Think like a guest, not a planner.” What would I like to feel? Emotions, excitement, nostalgia, and appreciation? That is what needs to be the main focus, and not how good the event looks.
Technology Should Not Be Scary
Artificial Intelligence can seem intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be. When viewed through the right lens, it represents evolution, not extinction. Think back to when electricity was first introduced—people feared it, unsure of its safety or purpose. Yet today, it powers nearly every aspect of our lives.
The same applies to AI. It’s not here to replace human creativity or intuition; it’s here to enhance efficiency and refocus our energy on what truly drives results. By automating repetitive or time-consuming tasks, AI allows us to invest more of our expertise into strategy, innovation, and connection—the human elements machines can’t replicate.
Like every significant advancement, it challenges us to adapt. Whether this marks the next great leap forward or a turning point in how we define “human work,” only time will tell. But one thing is sure: progress has always favoured those willing to evolve.
Conclusion
Whether you are looking to elevate your understanding, explore consulting, or just want to talk guest involvement, reach out!
