Online Tools and Widgets that Make Your Company's Life Easier

Like it or not, technology is taking over. We at the Events North office have decided to hop on the ever-changing technology train...and we couldn't be happier about it. We've found so many resources and new gadgets that help make us more efficient and effective business and social media-wise, so we thought we would share some of our current favorites.

Whether you're a privately owned small business, a large non-profit, or even a thriving large corporation, these tools can not only help to improve your virtual image, but also make sure that you are up to date on all that online tools have to offer.

1. Prezi: Let's face it; powerpoint, as useful as it can be, is starting to become outdated. That is what makes Prezi so great. It's an updated powerpoint that presents your ideas, information, or product in an engaging and exciting way. According to the website, Prezi is a virtual whiteboard that transforms presentations from monologues into conversations: enabling people to see, understand, and remember ideas. Prezi is not only user friendly, but engages your audience the entire presentation. 

2. Twoppy: Question 1: Do you have a smartphone? Question 2: Would you like to have access to all of the details of the event you're attending on your smartphone instead of throughout multiple documents? Answers to both are most likely yes, which is why Twoppy is something you need to check out. Twoppy allows you to create a mobile app for your event page, making navigation and detailed information simple for you and your attendees to access. As found on the Twoppy webpage, You can use Twoppy for festivals, exhibitions, conferences, amusement parks, zoos and sporting events. Even as a city guide, travel guide or theater guide it will be great for your visitors. The cherry on top? Twoppy's event packages start at a price of free and allow you to upgrade as needed.

3. Hootsuite: Hootsuite is social media management at its finest. You can sign up for a free account and upgrade when you decide that you need a more detailed look into the analytics of the sites you're managing. Hootsuite is an excellent tool for managing all of your pages at once (because let's just be honest, having Facebook, your blog and Twitter in one place is a huge timesaver), as well as providing you with the ability to schedule posts and check on the latest social media trends. Unlike the latest version of whatever iPhone game is popular, Hootsuite is an app you will not regret purchasing.

4. Fast Company Magazine: If you are searching for a source where you can find the latest and greatest technology, search no further. Fast Company Magazine is an excellent source for all things "up and coming." The website features everything from stories of creative people (sometimes being able to see what other people are thinking is the jump start you need to brainstorm your own ideas) to the technological gems that have recently been released. We swear by the information this magazine provides and think you should give it a look as well.

5. MyNorth Tickets: We try to "keep it local" as much as we possibly can, which is why MyNorth Tickets is so exciting! Formally known as TREAT Tickets, MyNorth Tickets has made the online ticketing process even more user friendly than before. MyNorth Tickets is the perfect tool to use for your event, whether it be a VIP dinner or a full-scale festival. They even offer paper tickets for you to provide to those guests who don't feel comfortable or who may not have the resources to print their tickets at home. We definitely plan on using MyNorth Ticketing for some of our future events.

6. BizBash: We've said it before and we will say it again: we.love.BizBash. BizBash is one of our absolute favorite sites for Event Planning news, ideas and resources. BizBash is always on their A-game when it comes to reporting on the newest Event Planning Trends. Plus, they give updates on venues from all over the nation, allowing a look into what different regions of the country are doing. We may get a little too excited when we receive a BizBash magazine in the mail, but when you're looking for a top source in up to date Event Planning information, it's one of the best sources out there.


So, click on the links above and do a little exploring of the websites for yourself. Hopefully you find some of the information useful and interesting. While there will probably be new widgets and gadgets in a few month's time, the sources and tools listed above are a great start to improving your and your company's technological skills.

What a Wonderful Wedding Season!

You may have noticed a lack of blogging from the Events North office the past two weeks. We apologize profusely, but we were knee-deep in wedding season (in Meaghan's case, literally- her side of the office was almost consumed by boxes full of decor, crafting, gifts...the Fedex employees now know her by name).

We adore all of the clients we work with and these two couples were no exception. Jackie & Drew and Ashley & David were simply a blast to work with. From the moment we met them to the final hug goodbye- there was never a dull moment. Plus, they are some lovely looking couples- we cannot wait to share their wedding photos as soon as we receive them!

Not only have our brides and grooms been great the past two weekends- all of the vendors we worked with have been nothing short of fantastic. Because of that, we would like to use this week's blog post to give a shout out to all of the exceptional individuals and companies we had the chance to work with at these two weddings. We'll start out with Jackie & Drew's wedding, since that was the first of the two so that just makes the most sense.

Jackie and Drew held their rehearsal dinner at the fabulous Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery. Channing and her staff not only turned over the room in record time, they were the perfect example of what a hospitable staff should be. Grandview Catering provided the rehearsal dinner spread, which was (as usual) mouth-wateringly delicious. I'm still dreaming about their pulled pork and vegetable skewers.

The wedding took place at Snow Moon Ranch. If you haven't visited, I highly recommend it. Not only is Juliet, the owner, completely wonderful- the view from the ceremony site is outstanding, the rustic barn setting is perfection...and it's a llama farm. Way too fun, we know.

This was the backdrop at the Snow Moon Ranch. Northern Michigan at its finest!

Jackie and Drew could not have chosen a better assortment of vendors. We had such a wonderful time working with all of them both pre-event and on-site. Catering was provided by Epicure Catering. Cammie and her entire staff simply blew us away. Not only were the meals exceptional, their presentation was great and their professionalism on-site was extremely impressive. They even provided late-night sweet potato fries and black bean burger sliders- what's not to love!?

The cake for the evening was created by Aunt B's Cakes. It was truly a work of art (and the guests mentioned more than a few times that it was absolutely delicious). Aunt B's even created pine cones out of chocolate- incredible. We know.  While we're on the subject of works of art, we cannot forget to mention Derek and his crew at the Floral Underground for their unbelievable centerpieces and floral designs. The Floral Underground always surpasses any expectations we have, but these centerpieces were outstanding. No centerpiece was the same- we really do not know how Derek's creative brain works, but he nails his floral designs every time.

The reception entertainment for the evening was provided by Dan at 2Bays DJs, who had the wedding guests out on the dance floor from the first song all the way until the very last one. 2Bays DJs is one of our favorite Northern Michigan DJ companies- we know that when they're on site, the dancing portion of the night is bound to be successful.

Now, on to Ashley and David's wedding.

The rehearsal dinner took place at Red Ginger, which absolutely never disappoints. Red Ginger's staff is just as excellent as the pot stickers they serve...which are the best I have ever had, so that's saying something.

Ashley and David's ceremony and reception took place at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. We get almost overly excited to plan events at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa- especially when we get the chance to work with the lovely Rachelle. Rachelle always goes above and beyond to make sure that no details go unnoticed and that the bride and groom are beyond satisfied. Plus, she's just a joy to work with- which can really be said for the entire resort staff. They made sure that the wedding was absolutely perfect and we cannot wait to work with them again!

An overview of Ashley and David's romantic reception at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. Aren't those candles just gorgeous!?

The Floral Underground provided the floral design for this wedding as well. The combination of hundreds of candles (there had to be at least 100 on the head table alone) and fabulous fall-colored centerpieces completed the decor. Photography was provided by the wonderful Harrison Studio from Grand Rapids. This was our first time working with Laura and Ben and we really hope that we get the chance to do so again soon!

Bayshore Strings did a lovely job with the ceremony music- even in the 40 degree weather! The DJ for the evening was Urban Kris, who we really cannot say enough great things about. Kris kept the party going all night long and made sure that everyone had a fantastic time. He was professional, personable and just did an overall great job!

A few other vendors that we simply cannot forget to mention:

- Sperry Tents provided a stunning sail-cloth tent for Jackie and Drew's reception. The tent was so well-taken care of and Dan and his staff were so helpful and great to work with!
- Distinctive Rentals provided gorgeous chivari chairs for both weddings, making the reception picture-perfect.
-Special Events Rentals set-up all of the lighting for Ashley and David's reception (including a few remote-controlled LED globes, which were a huge hit during the dancing-portion of the evening). Their expertise and quality rentals helped set the "candle-light romantic" tone the couple was striving for.
-American Rentals provided all of the tables and ceremony chairs for Jackie and Drew's wedding. As usual, they were able to accommodate all of our needs and handled rental deliver and pick-up with ease.
- The Homestead Resort hosted a gorgeous brunch for Jackie and Drew- their entire staff was extremely attentive and the breakfast spread was enjoyed by everyone in attendance!
- Our linens for both events were provided by the always wonderful Cloth Connection.
- Blockhouse Design exceeded our expectations again with all of the graphic design for printed materials for both weddings. We really just do not have the adjectives to describe what a sensational job Erin at Blockhouse does every.single.time. She just... gets it. We love it.
- Rebecca Kinnee Photography was on-site during Jackie and Drew's wedding to capture some photos of guests with Llamas, as well as to snap a few detail shots for us to share with you! She always does an excellent job and is great to work with!
- Kara Purtell did the photography for Jackie and Drew's wedding and was lovely to work with!
- Pavlova European Spa & Salon was on site for both weddings to provide their hair and make-up services. Pavlova always does an outstanding job- we highly recommend their services!
- Wendy Hutchingson with Weddings Your Way officiated Ashley and David's wedding and did a superb job adding in the couple's personal touches and making sure the ceremony fit their requests exactly.
- Paul from Mackinaw Trolley Company made sure Ashley & David's bridal party had a blast on their trolley ride. Despite the rain, Paul made sure that no one left the trolley feeling they'd had anything less than a great time!
- Celtic Transportation made sure that guests were able to get from the Homestead to Snow Moon Ranch and back again for Jackie and Drew's wedding and also provided transportation from Grand Traverse Resort and Spa to Red Ginger for Ashley and David's Rehearsal Dinner. Noreen is so easy to work with and all of their drivers were very personable!


Clearly, we have an extreme appreciation for people who are passionate and who excel at what they do. Make sure to check out the vendors listed above in this post- you won't be sorry!

Thank you to everyone mentioned for making us love what we do!

Vendor Spotlight: Grandview Catering!

We really do love all of the amazing vendors that we get the privilege to work with...and we've worked with quite a few!

There are always those few vendors that we work with regularly who continue to impress us again and again, and Grandview Catering is definitely one of them. So, we would like to dedicate this week's blog post to the spectacular Grandview Catering and let you know a little bit about why we (and our clients!) love to work with them.

Source: Grandview Catering

Grandview Catering not only has excellent food, they provide phenomenal service every single event they cater. Their staff is both professional, personable and simply just great at what they do. They always dress to impress and not a single table is left unattended. They go the extra mile to make sure that all of the guests are enjoying their meals and that they are delivering appetizers and meals in a timely manner.

Source: Grandview Catering

Their food...well...let's just say that if we could eat Grandview Catering's meals every single day, we would be in heaven. From their appetizers (we're HUGE fans of their stuffed potatoes. I actually think I started salivating just thinking about them) to their meals (whether they be buffet style or plated...I'm pretty positive that Grandview Catering can do no wrong.) to their desserts, everything meets...well, okay, exceeds all expectations.

Source: Grandview Catering

The best part? They offer such a variety of options that I don't think I have seen the same meal twice. Is your event themed? They can offer you options that will fit perfectly- believe us, we had them cater everything from corporate dinners to Western Themed cocktail hours. Want to make sure your vegetarian guests are satisfied? Grandview Catering can do things with Eggplant that will make even the biggest meat lover's stomach growl.

Source: Grandview Catering

Honestly, I cannot think of one bad thing to say...but you should definitely check out Grandview Catering for yourself. Make sure to stop by their newest restaurant, The Kitchen, to grab some lunch or dinner for you and your family- you can even steal a peak at their tasting room while you're there!

Thank you, Grandview Catering, for making our job even more fun by providing excellent meals, service and displays!

Guest Blogger: Macaila Schlaff! "What I Learned During my Internship with Events North"

For those of you who didn't know, we had the privilege of having Macaila for our summer Event Coordinator. Macaila was an absolute dream to work with and we could not have asked for a more perfect fit. We asked her if she'd mind talking a little bit about her internship at Events North and she was happy to provide some answers for us! Tomorrow is her last day with us and we're still in denial, but here is a look into Macaila's internship with Events North: 

Meaghan, Allison, and Macaila on site at an event!

What are 3-5 things you have learned from your internship with Events North?

1. No matter what happens, there is no need to freak out. Allison Beers is a calm and collected professional who has taught me that when an incident occurs, panicking is only a waste of time. The best solution is to think about the problem, then either come to a realistic resolution or if there is nothing to be done then accept the fact that it is the way it is.

2. Networking is not as easy as it seems, but also not as scary as you think. When first entering the professional world, networking appears to be simple…you go to an event, talk to some people and hand out your card. However, there is a lot more too it. Walking into a room where you are not only the youngest person but the “new girl” too is very intimidating…I felt like the awkward girl at a high school dance just waiting for someone to come over. Then I realized that I need to make moves, I have nothing to lose if I just go talk to people and see what they do, how they got involved in their industry and their experiences. Being young was not a disadvantage like I believed because people were interested to hear my career goals and happy to give their advice on growing in the professional world. They had been in my shoes before and knew how to relate. Networking can be compared to going to a new school, the first day can be overwhelming but if you be yourself and get out there you are sure to find new friends and connections!

3. Always have your business card on you. Everyone and anyone you meet could be a potential client.

4. Be confident in all that you do. Before this internship I second-guessed choices and worried that my ideas/work would not meet expectations or be as good as someone else’s. Allison gave me large responsibilities but also gave me the tools I needed in order to be confident in the final product of those tasks. I make sure to triple check, ask if I need assistance, take time to perfect but also be efficient. Allison gave me constructive criticism on the assignments I turned in, and in addition she made sure to tell me when my work was fantastic.

           

What was your favorite event or experience in general?

I don’t think there was just one event that was my absolute favorite because each one taught me something new and when you are with the Events North team there is no such thing as a “boring event.”  I genuinely loved all the events I was a part of because our clients are fantastic people to work with and I spend my days with the two most fun people I know. 

One that sticks out was the LaBelle Family Reunion (also known as LFR to honorary members of the family…aka Meaghan and I) and Frank Wedding Weekend Bananza was one of the craziest, busiest, most fun events! It resulted in family shenanigans, karaoke contests, hiding out in a closet with Allison Beers and an intense dance party with the Events North team. Oh, and did I mention that Allison rapped the entire “shoop” song by Salt and Pepper to Meaghan and I…just one of the many skills she possesses. (owner's note: I'm mortified that Macaila told you I rapped the entire "Shoop" song by Salt and Pepper

...when the name of the group is "Salt and Pepa." I made her aware of her mistake, don't worry.)

 Two of my favorite parts about working with Events North were shopping days for different clients….there is something about spending money on random event items that is very entertaining. Also, just work days in the office where we are all in intense work-mode but on random occasion someone blurts out something weird or hilarious and just for a moment we get distracted for a mental break. The dynamic between the three of us works to make our job good-busy.

Meaghan and Macaila before the DTCA Annual Dinner

What has this internship taught you?

1. How to manage social media

2. How to market and promote events

3. How to properly budget for each client

4. How to spark my creativity and stretch my brain for ideas

5. How to construct a proposal

6. How to organize and collaborate with vendors

           

The list of things I have learned this summer are infinite. Not only will I take the valuable skills I acquired and apply them to my future career….hopefully in event planning…but I also have improved my life skills and grown up a little more during this internship.

           

What is some advice you have for future interns?

1. Always be early.

2. Events North is not just a company to work for- they are like gaining a new family. I spend about 100 hours a week with them and yes they are my bosses but I also know that I can come to them with anything.

3. If you don’t genuinely enjoy coming to work every day then this is not the job for you. People ask me how I deal with the insane hours and jam-packed days but it honestly rocks! I love what I do and who I work with. Events North is the best company to work for…no joke.

4. Pay attention to every detail, write everything down so you don’t forget and ask questions when you need to.

5. Have fun! Don’t be too serious all the time or you will not enjoy your job. Events North is a fun group so don’t be the odd one out.

Events North Staff onsite at an event

What will you miss the most?

1. Allison and Meaghan :(

2. Dr. Dre Pandora

3. Event Days

4. Ruby the Michigan Blood Drop Mascot

5. Road trips. Especially when I sit in the back seat and feel like I’m being driven to soccer practice or have to fit into a four year olds car seat. (editor's note: we did not actually make Macaila sit in a four year old's car seat....more than once.)

Keep it Local: Things You Won't Want to Miss at the Cherry Festival!

If you happen to be in the Downtown Traverse City area between July 7th and July 14th...you may notice a few more people visiting than usual.

And by a few, I mean a few...thousand.

The reason for this is our very own National Cherry Festival is coming up next week and we're extremely excited about it!

We also happen to know the lovely individuals who make this festival happen, so we thought that collecting some information and devoting a blog post to must-see events at this year's festival was needed.

So, here are a few things that you shouldn't miss at the National Cherry Festival!

1. NCF Presidential Cherry Pancake Breakfast. Let's be honest- who doesn't love breakfast?! You can join the National Cherry Festival Poobahs (aka past presidents) for pancakes, sausage, coffee, milk and juice. Proceeds from the breakfast will benefit not only the Cherry Festival Foundation, but also the Northwestern Michigan College's School of Aviation. I also heard that you'll be able to meet the Air Show Pilots if you're there between 8am-10am, which I personally think is a great way to start the day! 

2. Festival Air Show: The National Cherry Festival Air Show features the Black Diamond Jet Team, Team RV,
U.S. Coast Guard, Greg Shetterly, Joe Shetterly and other military acts as they perform their maneuvers over West Grand Traverse Bay. Watching an air show over the bay really allows you to sit back and take in all of what Traverse City has to offer. As an added bonus: if you're watching from the shores of West Grand Traverse Bay, you can listen live on WTCM AM 580 to hear air show commentators give minute to minute maneuvering. 

3. Touchstone Energy Junior Royale Parade: Not only is this one of America's only Kids Parades (Traverse City is a preeeeetty awesome place), it also features the National Cherry Festival Prince and Princess court representing our 27 local Elementary schools. This years theme is "America the Beautiful," which I think is an excellent and appropriate theme. I hear that some groups throw candy to the parade-goers, so getting to the parade earlier to secure a great spot is a definite must- perhaps in front of the Events North office (Right next to U & I lounge...it really is the perfect spot).

4. Meijer Festival of Races: There are very few places that can offer a scenic running path like Traverse City.  You and thousands of other runners can enjoy the picturesque views of Grand Traverse Bay as you push yourself to reach your running goals! 

P.S. Meaghan will be running the 15k in a bright green Events North running shirt with "We Run This!" on the back (shoutout to the amazing Alfie!)- make sure to stop and say hi!

5. DTE Energy Cherry Royale Parade: Kick off the final day of the 86th National Cherry Festival with the DTE Energy Cherry Royale Parade! The parade really shows off Traverse City's community involvement and has such a diverse array of floats and participants. There will be royalty, marching bands, Prince and Princess floats, clowns, specialty entries...the list goes on and on. This is a National Cherry Festival staple and also a great way to spend the day with your family!

6. Bayside Music Stage: The National Cherry Festival has a variety of wonderful talent at this year's music stage! What's better than enjoying the beautiful Traverse City weather while listening to tunes with your family and friends? Check out the line-up over at the event page, purchase your tickets and then head over and enjoy the music!

Those are just a few highlights- there are just way too many events to mention, but you can find a complete line up right here at the Event Schedule. We'll see you there!

Tips and Tricks for Your Outdoor Wedding!

Living in Traverse City, we are lucky enough to have a plethora of gorgeous outdoor wedding locations. Whether you’re looking for a stunning view of the West Bay or a breathtaking vineyard reception, Northern Michigan offers a wide variety of exceptional outdoor locations for your big day.

However, while it is your wedding day and you would like nothing but blue skies, 70 degree weather, and the soothing sound of waves casually crashing in the background…sometimes things don’t always go according to plan.

So, without further ado, here are just a few important tips and tricks for your outdoor wedding!

1. Keep the comfort of your guests in mind.

Yes, this is your big day and it is absolutely all about your wedding bliss, but you want your guests to be focused on how gorgeous of a couple you and your significant other are and not on how swelteringly hot/frigidly cold it is outside.

Here are a few simple ways to keep everyone content and allow your day to reach a level of maximum enjoyment:

- Serve water bottles (you can even customize the labels!) to guests immediately following the ceremony to beat the heat in a personalized way! Another option is to display your wedding program on a fan for guests.

Source: Intimate Weddings

- If it’s a slightly chillier than you planned on, invest in some heaters or provide guests with blankets or shawls (which could also double as wedding favors- what's not to love?)

- Make sure if you are having a sunset wedding that guests are not blinded by the light- you don't want them to have to squint while watching your ceremony.

- If it is "bug season" outdoors (you know the one), provide guests with bug spray in bathroom

baskets or invest in some citronella candles so everyone is well protected.

-Think about where your wedding is taking place and consider all of the possible unwanted noise. You want to make sure your guests can hear every detail of your ceremony, toasts, prayers, etc. Investing in a sound system in case of louder than you’d like distractions is a solid plan.

2. Plan B is a MUST!

No matter where your wedding is taking place…you really cannot control the weather (Why has no one made an App for that?). That being said, having a plan B for your outdoor wedding is a must so you can sit back and relax on your big day no matter what.

Allison Beers, owner of Events North, explains this best in her article, “If You Don’t Like the Weather, Wait Five Minutes,” Featured in Families First Monthly's February/March 2009 Edition.

“Plan A might involve all of your guests in the back yard or in a park under the trees, but a Plan B is a safe idea. Check with local rental companies to see how late you can add a tent. The 10-day forecast is a safe bet as it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Sometimes it’s best to have a back up location. Does the church you’re getting married in have hall? Does the hotel your guests are staying in have an extra room? You typically can’t hold these without plans of using them, but if they are going unused, as your event gets closer, they may be an option.”

3. Windy Conditions.

While a light breeze may be welcomed with open arms on a warm day, wind can sometimes be slightly wilder than you anticipated...no matter what the time of year. You can help conquer windy conditions by doing the following:

- Make sure that your centerpieces are heavy enough to withstand some rougher winds…perhaps consider some contained mason jar candles instead of a more delicate option.

Source: Serious Eats

- Be sure that your place cards, napkins, and any other lightweight item that is displayed are secure so you can spend your night dancing instead of chasing down miscellaneous items.

- Factor in the possibility of wind when considering your hairstyle…you don’t want your hair covering your face as you’re saying “I do.” A little extra hairspray does wonders…trust me.

4. Make sure your Wedding Cake doesn't turn into a Hot Cake!

You've probably envisioned your perfect wedding cake for years now (or maybe that's just me...), but when having an outdoor wedding on a balmy day, you do have to keep in mind that butter-cream frosting will melt faster than fondant or other frostings. Make sure to let your cake artist know ahead of time that your wedding is outdoors so they can frost your cake accordingly…especially if there is no way to keep your cake refridgerated!  You want your cake to look as wonderful as it tastes...and not look like a piece of Salvador Dali artwork:

Source: {For} The Real Brides of New Orleans

The list could go on and on, really, but we decided to provide you with the subjects that we found to be most important in keeping both you and your guests happy.  We also do not want to scare you away from an outdoor wedding, we just simply want to make sure you’re ready for one. No matter what the conditions, if you’re prepared for them, then that means…

Happy you + Happy guests= THE PERFECT WEDDING DAY!

So readers, now it’s your turn! What are some other tips and tricks for outdoor weddings that you’ve come across/read about/used in the past/ etc? Leave your tips in the comment section- we’d love to hear what you have to say!

An Eventful Introduction

Hello! Welcome to the first official post on the Events North blog!

            You may be asking yourself: “Wait…what/who is ‘Events North?’ Why does an Event Management company want to start a blog? What do they feel the need to blog about?”

            Well, you are in such luck: I am going to provide an answer to all of those questions!

First, however, I am going to introduce myself. 

Photo Credit: Allen-Kent Photography

My name is Meaghan Jameson and I am the Event Manager for Events North…and the newest addition to the staff! I just moved to Traverse City, Michigan from Tampa, Florida in January to pursue my dream career, which is exactly what I am getting the opportunity to do here at Events North. I enjoy all things wedding, long-distance running, drinking copious amounts of coffee, and The Beatles.  I also love social media, event coordination, and Traverse City…which is where I am now lucky enough to call home!

I am also an active member of the Traverse City Young Professionals, Venue Rental Manager for the superb ECCO Venue in Downtown Traverse City, and on the board of the DDA TIF 2 Development Area Citizen’s Council.

            Now, onto the first hypothetical question I proposed: What/who is ‘Events North?’

            Excellent question. Events North is a full service event management agency located in Traverse City, Michigan that specializes in corporate and social events. Allison Beers, owner and founder (and also my wonderful boss), has over 15 years of experience in event management and prides herself in working hard to save clients money while still making every detail of their event extra special. Events North is happy to help you with as many or as few aspects of the planning process you require- we cater to your needs exactly. We will host the event of your dreams, exceed your expectations and WOW your guests by creating an experience that will never be forgotten!

And who are we? Well, you’ve already been introduced to me, but the rest of the Events North family is made up of Allison Beers, owner and founder, and our summer event coordinator, Macaila. I’ll allow them to introduce themselves:

Allison Beers: 

While living on the East Coast, Allison planned and executed a 40,000 guest carnival fundraiser for the opening of the Philadelphia Eagles new stadium,  and also planned a two-week regional road show for America Online. 

While in Philadelphia, she guest lectured for a class at Temple University in event management and served as a board member of the Philadelphia Chapter of the International Special Event Society for 3 years.

Allison is a graduate of Albion College with a double BA in English and Speech Communications and also has a certification in event management from The George Washington University School of Business.

Beers is currently the President of the Board of Directors of the National Cherry Festival Foundation and on the board of directors for the Downtown Traverse City Association (DTCA). She was elected to the Traverse City Rotary Club Board of Directors for 2012.   She has also served on the Board of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan. 

Beers is a founding member of the Traverse City Young Professionals. She is currently the coordinator of the program for the Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce.

In 2010 and 2011 Events North was named the Readers' Choice Best Of Award Winner from Michigan Meetings + Events Magazine for Best Meeting and Event Planner.

In 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011, the Traverse City Business News named Beers one of the 40 Most Influential Business People Under 40.

In 2010, Beers was named the Top 10 in '10 from Albion College. Top 10 in 10 awards were created to recognize noteworthy and distinctive achievements made by ten alumni who have graduated within the past ten years.

Allison is also a freelance writer for Michigan Meetings + Events Magazine and serves on their editorial advisory board.

Allison, originally from the Detroit area, moved to Traverse City 7 years ago with her husband, Adam, a Traverse City native.  She has two children, Anna (4) and Jake (10 months). 

(Allison also really enjoys Oldies music, watching Punky Brewster with Anna after a long day, and indulging in some tea from MORSELS on occasion. She verified that all of this information is accurate, except that she enjoys tea from MORSELS more than just occasionally...)

Macaila Schlaff: 

Hi! My name is Macaila Schlaff and I am the new Event Coordinator at Events North! I am an undergraduate senior at the University of Michigan and have been given the opportunity to intern in Traverse City for the summer to gain experience towards my future career in social, corporate and non-profit events. My favorite things are boating, weddings, watching romantic-comedies and Michigan football! As a Michigan native from the Detroit area I am thrilled to be living and working in Traverse City for the summer!

Question #2: Why does an Event Management company want to start a blog?

            Well, honestly…Events North has a lot to blog about. We are located in an amazing town, get the opportunity to work with fantastic clients, are surrounded by superb local vendors, and have some excellent tips and tricks of the trade to share.

Which brings me to our final question: What do they feel the need to blog about?

            Events North plans on using this blog to share highlights from past events we’ve managed, shed light on some outstanding local vendors and venues, spread the Traverse City happenings to our readers, give you some insight into our Event-coordinating brains, provide wedding tips and money saving tricks…the list goes on and on. Mainly, I just want to keep you updated and entertained and also allow you to see how wonderful Traverse City really is (yes, even in the winter season).

            I think that about covers it as far as introductions go. I will be updating the blog at least once a week and also providing consistent updates- and sometimes even giveaways!- on our Facebook page.  In the meantime, have a wonderful week- hope it’s eventful (So punny, I know. I know.)!