We are each the star of our own worlds, but it’s so nice when others consider you a star of their world as well. I recently had a shining moment when I was recognized for my outstanding contributions to my local MPI chapter, SLAMPI. I joined the Special Events Committee and, thanks to my hotel friends and partners, was able to secure some overnight hotel stays and other donations for our Trivia Night, which helped to raise over $15,000 for our chapter. Yay! At the March luncheon I was presented with the award (wearing fabulous shoes of course) and was also featured in their newsletter and website.
I have been in meeting planning since before it was a college degree; yes, I am over 29 years of age, just in case you were wondering. But seriously, I have watched this industry mature and become a real player in how companies do business. I have watched meeting planners consistently grow and learn; embracing new trends and being open to all possibilities. I have seen hotels come and go, change names and merge; all the while staying current and being there to better serve my clients. It’s an amazing industry and one in which I am proud to take part.
All of this got me thinking about how important it is to support our industry; whether it be by joining and participating in a focused industry organization or by representing us at a networking event; by reading meetings magazines and blogs or and by taking part in social media conversations – all of this is what keeps our industry strong. The connections we make, the collaborations we create, the people and companies we champion, and the contributions we so graciously give, make for one amazing universe of meeting planners and suppliers.
And while all of this is so important, perhaps one the more awesome parts are the friends! Thank you for being more than an industry contact, but a friend as well. I can definitely say that I keep good company online, offline and everywhere in between with the many stars of the meeting planning industry.
Comment below with who you know as a star of our industry – let’s give them a shout out!
