Networking at Emeril’s and So Much More
I just got back from New Orleans, where I accompanied Kelly Murphy of Panache to The Special Event 2010 in New Orleans. As a graduation gift, Kelly invited me to join her at the annual gathering of special event professionals.
I was blessed the day I met Kelly, and I didn’t even know it! I know she will continue to be my mentor for the rest of my life!
The first thing we did was hit the convention center floor to check out the displays. Everything you would need to produce an event was there, from new table linens to china. I felt so comfortable; never did Kelly make me feel like a third wheel. She introduced me to everyone she knew. It was absolutely incredible to meet and talk to so many professionals, all in the field I want to pursue.
That night we were able to get reservations at Emeril’s New Orleans. It was phenomenal! We chose to eat at Emeril’s because he is the host chef at this year’s Bubble Q. It was great fun to have a little preview.
My favorite part of the trip was Friday morning. Kelly was asked to participate on a panel with five veteran event professionals in “130 Years of Event Experience: Ask the Experts.” Joining Kelly were NYC-based wedding expert Marcy Blum; CEO of Atlanta-based catering and event management company, A Legendary Event, Tony Conway, CMP; Comcor’s Mona Meretsky, CSEP, based in Ft. Lauderdale; and Someone’s in the Kitchen founder, Joann Roth-Oseary, of Tarzana, California. They all shared their personal stories as to how they found their way to special event management and production and how they got where they are now. It was absolutely eye-opening to hear; it made me think, “I can be in their shoes in a few years.”
After the panel, we returned to the main hall to scoop up all the goodies, fabulous new items and ideas. Kelly’s good friend, Sasha Souza, gave me her latest book and signed it for me. She is a master bridal consultant located in San Francisco, California; amazing book.
Kelly made sure I did not leave New Orleans, this being my first time there, without eating beignets at Cafe Du Monde.
On the plane ride back, Friday night, I was a lucky girl sitting in the middle of two presidents of special event rental companies, Greg Zalkin from Room Service Rentals and my mentor, Kelly. My trip could not have been any better. I couldn’t have asked for a better graduation gift.
Article by Alexis Andrade and courtesy of the Florida International University School of Hospitality
