Event Planner Pricing Guide: How to Set Your Rates and Charge What You’re Worth
Deciding how much to charge as an event planner can feel tricky, especially if you are just starting out. Even if you are a seasoned planner, it’s still wise to revisit your pricing to make sure you remain competitive while also being compensated appropriately. No...
ILEA Spark Awards 2025 Winners
Each year, the ILEA Chicago Chapter Spark Awards honor the creativity, innovation, and excellence of the city’s event and hospitality professionals. From breathtaking décor and immersive culinary experiences to powerful fundraisers and corporate celebrations, this...
How Wedding Planners Can Successfully Design Destination Weddings, Micro Weddings, and Elopements in 2025
Weddings have never been a one-size-fits-all affair, and in 2025, that truth has never been more apparent. The modern wedding landscape is defined by flexibility, personalization, and intentionality. Couples are breaking free from traditions, opting instead for more...
Event Industry News Updates for Friday, April 25, 2025: New Venue Openings & Events Starting Today
Here's what's new in event industry news this week around Chicago. AMC Roosevelt Collection 16 Opens Today in the South Loop AMC has purchased the ICON Theater located in the Roosevelt Collection Shops and will open some of its theaters today. The most exciting...
The Ultimate Venue Walkthrough Checklist for Event Planners
As an event planner, one of the most common things you will do is tour venues. Whether you’re planning a corporate gala, a wedding, or a private social celebration, the walkthrough is your chance to uncover all the details that can make or break your event. Every...
Event Planner Pricing Guide: How to Set Your Rates and Charge What You’re Worth
Deciding how much to charge as an event planner can feel tricky, especially if you are just starting out. Even if you are a seasoned planner, it’s still wise to revisit your pricing to make sure you remain competitive while also being compensated appropriately. No...
ILEA Spark Awards 2025 Winners
Each year, the ILEA Chicago Chapter Spark Awards honor the creativity, innovation, and excellence of the city’s event and hospitality professionals. From breathtaking décor and immersive culinary experiences to powerful fundraisers and corporate celebrations, this...
How Wedding Planners Can Successfully Design Destination Weddings, Micro Weddings, and Elopements in 2025
Weddings have never been a one-size-fits-all affair, and in 2025, that truth has never been more apparent. The modern wedding landscape is defined by flexibility, personalization, and intentionality. Couples are breaking free from traditions, opting instead for more...
Event Industry News Updates for Friday, April 25, 2025: New Venue Openings & Events Starting Today
Here's what's new in event industry news this week around Chicago. AMC Roosevelt Collection 16 Opens Today in the South Loop AMC has purchased the ICON Theater located in the Roosevelt Collection Shops and will open some of its theaters today. The most exciting...
The Ultimate Venue Walkthrough Checklist for Event Planners
As an event planner, one of the most common things you will do is tour venues. Whether you’re planning a corporate gala, a wedding, or a private social celebration, the walkthrough is your chance to uncover all the details that can make or break your event. Every...
Halloween & Entertainment Costume and Mask Design with Zagone Studios
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tI4H2b9m1gw&t=7s Everyone knows Spirit Halloween, Party City, and local spots Fantasy Costumes and Chicago Costume, but did you know a local, Chicago staple is the company that provides them along with theater and movies companies...
Destination Planning for the Future with Bethanie DeRose
Bethanie DeRose | LinkedIn In the vast industry of events, there are so many roles that many of us don’t think about. They may be under the radar, or incredibly specific. For planners, many discussions include what goes into the event, how do we make the best use of...
Best in the Game: What it Takes to be a Professional Photographer, with Dan Merlo
MerloMedia.com | 773-859-9999 | [email protected] | LinkedIn - Dan Merlo | Instagram @MerloMedia In the age of Instagram, it may feel like everyone is a photographer, but when deciding who to hire, it’s about more than just an eye-catching picture. If...
New Venues from August & September 2021
21c Museum Hotel 21c Museum Hotel does more than just display a local artist in the lobby. This hotel is true to its name, creating a unique atmosphere which is generated by taking their art seriously. Their team describes the space as an "art museum with sleeping...
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...