ISES World Event 2008

I just returned from my hometown of St. Petersburg, FL, where I was so very lucky to attend the annual ISES (International Society of Event Specialists) education symposium. It was a three day event held at the beautiful Renaissance Vinoy Hotel, overlooking Tampa Bay. 

The session started off with a keynote speech given by Mike Mullane a former NASA Astronaut. Now I know what you are thinking; I was thinking the same thing. What does an astronaut have to do with an event designer? Well, after hearing his inspirational talk, it all made sense. He is a man who overcame many obstacles, and lived the life of his dreams. By following his vision and not allowing obstacles to get in his way! I have to say, I was truly inspired as I believe a person with a vision and passion can achieve anything! 

What a great week full of classes on every topic from sponsorships to using Hors d'Oeuvres as an art form, to greening up events. I also had a great time meeting other event planners across the country, and bouncing ideas off one another, which is always a great experience. I met some fantastic planners, hotel purveyors, and vendors in the event planning industry!

I can not wait to attend next year’s symposium in San Francisco, CA!

Out and About.....Nashville, TN

I recently visited the beautiful Gaylord Opryland Hotel in Nashville, TN. While I was there I attended a weekend long cooking program, which was fantastic! The meeting and event rooms are beautiful and come in all shapes and sizes to accommodate parties, both intimate in size, and large.

Being an event designer, I am blessed to be able to travel quite a bit.  I have to say that, the service at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel was impeccable! From my very first inquiry, through my entire stay, I was blown away by the level of customer service that I received.

The hotel is simply stunning! The hotel boosts 9 acres of indoor gardens, there are many fountains, as well as tropical plants and trees. It is the perfect setting for a wedding. You get the best of both worlds; you feel like you are in a gorgeous outdoor garden setting, all while being under a gigantic glass enclosed atrium and climate controlled environment.

During my stay, I was able to witness several wedding set ups while I was in town and could not be more impressed with the level of customer service we received.

If you are looking for a phenomenal site with exceptional customer service, and fantastic food; look no further... The Gaylord Opryland Hotel is the perfect place!