How to Budget for an Event Like a Pro: Food, Drinks, and Planning Tips
Planning an event, whether it’s a company holiday celebration, client dinner, or private gathering, starts with one key step: understanding how to budget for an event effectively. The right financial plan makes the difference between a seamless experience and one that...
How to Start a Career in Events: Get a Job as an Event Planner in 2025
The events industry is thriving again, and opportunities are everywhere. Whether you are new to planning or shifting your career, learn how to start a career in events and the key skills, certifications, and experiences that will help you succeed.
Musical Review: Catch Me If You Can at the Marriott Theatre
Catch Me If You Can dazzles at Marriott Theatre with stellar performances, dining packages, and fall fun.
How to Ask for a Raise and Actually Get It
Learn how to ask for a raise, prove your value, and negotiate salary or benefits with confidence and strategy.
Affordable Event Planning: Luxury Guest Experiences on a Budget
When it comes to event planning, “high-end” is often mistaken for “high-cost.” But creating a memorable, luxurious event isn’t about blowing the budget. It’s about thoughtfulness, intention, and making your guests feel valued. By focusing on experience over expense,...
How to Budget for an Event Like a Pro: Food, Drinks, and Planning Tips
Planning an event, whether it’s a company holiday celebration, client dinner, or private gathering, starts with one key step: understanding how to budget for an event effectively. The right financial plan makes the difference between a seamless experience and one that...
How to Start a Career in Events: Get a Job as an Event Planner in 2025
The events industry is thriving again, and opportunities are everywhere. Whether you are new to planning or shifting your career, learn how to start a career in events and the key skills, certifications, and experiences that will help you succeed.
Musical Review: Catch Me If You Can at the Marriott Theatre
Catch Me If You Can dazzles at Marriott Theatre with stellar performances, dining packages, and fall fun.
How to Ask for a Raise and Actually Get It
Learn how to ask for a raise, prove your value, and negotiate salary or benefits with confidence and strategy.
Affordable Event Planning: Luxury Guest Experiences on a Budget
When it comes to event planning, “high-end” is often mistaken for “high-cost.” But creating a memorable, luxurious event isn’t about blowing the budget. It’s about thoughtfulness, intention, and making your guests feel valued. By focusing on experience over expense,...
Memorial Day Weekend in Chicago and Beyond: Where to Go, What to Do, and Where to Stay
Memorial Day weekend is a time to celebrate, relax, and enjoy the beginning of summer. Whether you're in Chicago or looking for a quick getaway nearby, there’s no shortage of exciting activities, delicious food, and memorable experiences. From indulging in Chicago’s...
Social Media Content Ideas for Hotels, Restaurants, Venues & Event Vendors
In today’s digital-first world, a strong social media presence is essential. Whether you're a hotel, a restaurant, a venue, a caterer, or an event vendor, how you show up online influences how potential clients and customers view your brand. With so much noise on...
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...
How to Break Into the Event Planning Industry: Tips for Landing Your First Role
If you've ever dreamed of working in event planning, you're not alone. The event industry is known for its excitement, creativity, and endless opportunities to work on amazing things ranging from media and marketing experiences to corporate events and trade shows and...
U.S. Travel Trends 2025: How Tourism Businesses Can Adapt to Shifting Behaviors
This week in industry news, travel and tourism dominate the headlines, revealing a stark contrast between global optimism and domestic caution—while international tourism forecasts for 2025 remain strong, U.S. travel trends are marked by hesitation. Global Travel on...
Best Easter Brunch Spots in Chicago for 2025
Looking for the perfect place to celebrate Easter brunch in Chicago this year? Whether you’re planning a family-friendly outing with the Easter Bunny, craving a luxurious rooftop buffet, or seeking a festive Easter brunch cruise on Lake Michigan, Chicago has a wide...
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Join Us Monday, Dec 15th!
Hear from Rose Horcher O’Connor, VP of Client Services at Choose Chicago and Hannah Loftus, VP of Research at World Business Chicago about the trends, major events and conventions, and economic indicators that will shape Chicago in 2026. Gain insights into demands, growing sectors, opportunities for your business, and what to expect in the year ahead.