business

Networking Events – Do’s and Don’ts

by Julie

I have taken part in my fair share of networking functions over the years. Face-to-face networking is a fantastic way to grow your personal network, meet new people, and expand out from your usual circle of contacts. Over time I have learned a few things, both as a guest/event attendee, and also as the event [...]

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ISES Toronto, September 2010 Event

by Julie

“We’re better when we’re together, Ignite Creativity in your Business and in your Industry” ISES Toronto Chapter Event, September 21, 2010 As the first International Special Events Society (ISES) Toronto Chapter meeting of the season approaches, I can’t help but feel excited and inspired about our inaugural event of the year. It always feels great [...]

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Effective Leadership vs Ineffective Leadership

by Julie

In recent weeks, I’ve had the privilege of attending meetings and gatherings with leaders of two sorts: 1) Effective Leaders and 2) Ineffective Leaders. Here are a few qualities and characteristics I ‘ve observed of both classes of leaders… Effective leaders listen and speak when necessary – Ineffective leaders talk non stop Effective leaders are [...]

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The Importance of Mentorship

by Julie

“To dance is to live. To live is to dance.” ~ M.A.D Motto In life, we look to mentors to help us navigate the rugged terrain ahead. Receiving tips and advice from people who have “been there done that” is one of the most valuable lessons of all. It shows us the importance of paying [...]

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Start With The “Why”

by Julie

Each year, the meetings and events community comes together in the heart of Toronto to take part in the annual trade show – Incentive Works. For the last three years running, my partner Elisa and I have attended, participated, and connected with fellow event professionals. As always, it’s great to walk the trade show aisles [...]

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An “Event Full” Year…

by Julie

This August, as I gear up for a busy fall with my fellow company members, there is another set of responsibilities which I’ve added to my already full plate. Aside from being a co-maid-of-honour in my beautiful sister’s February cirque wedding (yes, cirque wedding – more on that in future posts), along with co-directing our [...]

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Ten-hut! Bootcamp for Event Professionals

by Julie

Ten-hut! Last year, my business partner and I attended a Toronto conference designed exclusively for special event planners, event suppliers and event entrepreneurs. Special Event Boot Camp Toronto Edition immerses conference participants in two days of non-stop learning which provides you with the opportunity to hone your skills as an event professional. I have to [...]

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Whhhooo R U?

by Julie

She often can be found lounging on a leaf mid-afternoon, or weaving her silken cocoon (at her leisure of course), which will eventually transform her into a gorgeous butterfly. This creature doesn’t just perform the same old tricks… Not a chance. Our Caterpillar is a master hand-balancer and aerialist who specializes in the “wow” factor! [...]

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Trail Blazers

by Julie

“Do not follow where the path leads. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” -Anonymous Making your own way is scary – that’s a fact. Why is this the case? The road “less traveled” can sometimes seem to be a daunting and intimidating prospect. I suppose we all have to struggle [...]

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Invest in Interactions

by Julie

People don’t just buy things any more. Nope. We buy ideas, relationships, and feelings attached to products or services. I don’t get my hair done at just ANY salon. I trim my long locks by going to see Sam – the one hair dresser who I feel understands my personal style and therefore my hair. [...]

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Notable and Quotable

by Julie

Last week I had the incredible experience of attending the Canadian Special Events & Meeting Expo educational sessions and seminars hosted by some of the top event producers known in the industry today. There were some fantastic quotes which I wanted to log via this blog for our mutual reference and on-going benefit. Even if [...]

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