
How to Build Your Vendor List
Photo by micheile henderson on Unsplash One of the most important things a planner can have is a solid vendor list. It's important to make sure you have reputable partners who can help you execute a great event. Building (or refreshing) your vendor list can feel...

New Chicago Restaurants Coming Soon
New venues coming to Chicago – from restaurants to the new St. Regis hotel restaurants, including a British Steakhouse making its way to Chicago, and Guinness’ new brewery opening in the West Loop

AI Headshots Don’t Have to Ruin Your Photography Business
Photo via DailyDot Kelly Baums is one of many TikTokers talking about AI generated headshots. This conversation quickly has professional photographers following with "I'm worried." But the reality is that the person who is only spending around $20 on these headshots...

The Bellevue Replacing Tavern on Rush, Opening Spring 2023
Many were surprised when Chicago Gold Coast staple Tavern on Rush announced it was closing last year, but Rush Street is one of the most popular dining areas in Chicago, so it was bound to find new owners soon. The two-floor space will now feature contemporary...

2022 Holiday Guide
Read this year's Holiday Guide with all of the information you need to plan your event this year! From Selecting your food and beverages, to How to Plan like a Pro, to Award-Winning & Trending Restaurants - find the resources you need to have your best holiday...

How to Build Your Vendor List
Photo by micheile henderson on Unsplash One of the most important things a planner can have is a solid vendor list. It's important to make sure you have reputable partners who can help you execute a great event. Building (or refreshing) your vendor list can feel...

New Chicago Restaurants Coming Soon
New venues coming to Chicago – from restaurants to the new St. Regis hotel restaurants, including a British Steakhouse making its way to Chicago, and Guinness’ new brewery opening in the West Loop

AI Headshots Don’t Have to Ruin Your Photography Business
Photo via DailyDot Kelly Baums is one of many TikTokers talking about AI generated headshots. This conversation quickly has professional photographers following with "I'm worried." But the reality is that the person who is only spending around $20 on these headshots...

The Bellevue Replacing Tavern on Rush, Opening Spring 2023
Many were surprised when Chicago Gold Coast staple Tavern on Rush announced it was closing last year, but Rush Street is one of the most popular dining areas in Chicago, so it was bound to find new owners soon. The two-floor space will now feature contemporary...

2022 Holiday Guide
Read this year's Holiday Guide with all of the information you need to plan your event this year! From Selecting your food and beverages, to How to Plan like a Pro, to Award-Winning & Trending Restaurants - find the resources you need to have your best holiday...

Virtual Event Feature: 2021 Walgreens Virtual Leader Meeting
Event Overview Event dates: August 30-31, 2021 Event Purpose: Internal Leadership Meeting Attendee Count: 2,000 Virtual Platform Used: Zoom A/V Partner: Resolution Digital Studios Event Summary: More than 2,000 Walgreens team members joined the 2021 Walgreens Virtual...

How to Deal with Difficult Clients
While clear communication lays the ground work for good client relationships, that doesn’t mean you won’t still run into trouble. Here are some ways to help you navigate even the most challenging of client expecations.

How to Network on Social Media
Last year we all had to retreat from our usual interactions, which removed opportunities to meet new people. While the virus is still in flux, the idea of networking remains challenging. There’s nothing quite like walking into a room and striking up...

From Punishment to Professional: Michelle Dallas Has Become the Queen of Chicago Event Planners
Michelle Dallas | eventsmd.com | Instagram & LinkedIn @EventsMD | Facebook @michelledallasevents How do you know you’re one of the best planners in Chicago? When everyone knows who you are. I sat down with Michelle Dallas, events industry...

Questions Every Planner Needs to Ask the Venue
Image by Amy Hirschi When putting together a live event, there are necessary questions that every event planner should be prepared to ask. While they may seem obvious, it’s surprising how many little details can easily get missed. Don’t be left scrambling - these...

Precautions and Preparations to Think About for Planning COVID-Safe Events
While many are reveling in the relief of vaccines, we have to acknowledge that the pandemic isn’t completely over. With the Delta variant causing increased concern - particularly for those at risk ranging from children to older adults, those with health...

New Venues | July 2021
Pendry Chicago (Hotel) and Chateau Carbide (Rooftop) Photo Credit: Pendry Hotel ChicagoPhoto Credit: Pendry Hotel ChicagoPhoto Credit: Pendry Hotel ChicagoPhoto Credit: Pendry Hotel Chicago Pendry Hotels & Resorts is a new luxury hospitality brand from Montage...

How to Get a Job in Events
Starting a career in events was daunting before a global pandemic. Fear of an additional wave of the Delta variant may give some people planning pause, but now is the time to sharpen your skills and get out there. Events are already making a comeback, and after...

5 Things to do in Chicago July 2021
Our top 5 recommendations for fun activities in Chicago for July 2021
Welcome Back, Chicago
Dear Industry Professionals: As the Creator of Chicago Planner Magazine, I am excited to welcome you all back. On Friday, June 11, 2021, Mayor Lightfoot announced that Chicago would officially be fully reopened. With vaccinations well-distributed, and summer...