Denver NACE Podcast

What if you could turn a humble beginning as a high school DJ into a flourishing event services empire? Kevin Dennis of Fantasy Sound Event Services did just that, and he's here to tell us how. From crafting custom chandeliers to mastering AV gigs with tech giants like Bill Gates, Kevin’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, hands-on learning, and strategic networking. This episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories that are sure to motivate any aspiring event professional.

Curious about building durable business relationships and standing out in a competitive market? Kevin shares his innovative approaches, such as celebrating quirky national holidays to connect with clients and create memorable experiences. He recounts pivotal moments from his career, including the transition from using borrowed equipment to becoming a full-time business owner. By emphasizing the importance of presenting oneself professionally, Kevin shows how trust and credibility can be earned and maintained in the events industry.

We also delve into the excitement of upcoming industry events and the value of continuous learning. As a two-time national president of WIPA, Kevin underscores the importance of giving back and participating in panels and conferences. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, Kevin’s journey offers invaluable lessons on relationship-building, staying ahead of trends, and making a lasting impact in the events industry. Tune in to this enlightening episode and walk away with the tools to elevate your own career.

How will the integration of cannabis reshape the events industry? This episode promises to uncover the transformative topics and surprising insights awaiting attendees at the upcoming NACE Experience Conference in Denver this July. We're thrilled to have Bonnie Vidal from Biscuits and Berries returning, alongside first-time guest Aimee Palifroni. Together, we delve into the significance of hosting this major event at the Sheridan Downtown, anticipated to boost local tourism and hospitality. Aimee shares her memorable experiences from past conferences, emphasizing the unexpected value found in sessions on leadership and purposeful play. Plus, we give you a sneak peek at this year's intriguing session topics, including the cutting-edge integration of cannabis into event planning.

Join us as we explore the vibrant networking opportunities and community spirit that NACE conferences are renowned for. We discuss the much-anticipated sustainability-focused culinary experience lunch and the prestigious NACE awards, which celebrate excellence in weddings, corporate events, and entertainment. From the thrill of winning awards to the camaraderie of networking with peers, this episode captures the essence of what makes NACE conferences so special. We also cover all the logistics—conference dates, registration details, and the immense value of a full conference pass. Don’t miss out on learning about the unique professional growth opportunities and invaluable one-on-one interactions with industry leaders that await you.

What drives a person to shift careers and find their true calling in the dynamic world of event planning? Meet Erin Young, the spirited sales coordinator at Footers Catering, as she takes us through her remarkable journey from property management and commercial real estate to a fulfilling role in the events industry. Over an enticing charcuterie board and a selection of seasonal cocktails from Social Capital in Arvada, Erin opens up about her passion for creating unforgettable experiences and the storied history of Footers Catering, which has evolved from a beloved restaurant into a second-generation family-owned catering powerhouse.

Imagine a world where business meets heart-centered leadership. Erin passionately discusses the powerful lessons from the Heart Leadership conference by MIBE, emphasizing how authenticity and vulnerability can drive both personal and professional growth. We savor the taste of a refreshing butterfly lemonade and explore how integrating genuine human connections into our work can transform our professional environments. Erin’s insights highlight the importance of balancing business demands with a heartfelt approach, making this episode a must-listen for anyone in the events industry.

Peek behind the curtain at Social Capital, where the daily operations are as vibrant as the cocktails. From a mutual love for the musical Wicked to the host's favorite Colorado pastimes like hiking and enjoying margaritas on patios, this episode brings a fun and engaging look at life in the events industry. Erin shares the intricacies of her role as a sales coordinator, from securing spontaneous wedding gigs to orchestrating flawless events with a creative culinary team. Tune in to discover the magic behind Social Capital Events in Arvada, and get inspired by Erin's journey and dedication to making every event a memorable one.

Join us for an illuminating conversation with Jeff Libby, owner of MiHi Entertainment, and Sarah Sheveland, the company's dynamic sales manager. Discover how this innovative company is transforming corporate events with cutting-edge photo and video activations, AI-driven personality quizzes, and creative AV services. Jeff reveals the secrets behind their engaging trade show strategies and their remarkable adaptability during the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, Sarah takes us through her journey with the company, showcasing her knack for driving sales and navigating challenges, all while emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision-making.

Explore the vibrant world of networking and community-building as we discuss the role of organizations like NACE and MPI in boosting business visibility and opportunities. Jeff and Sarah share the meticulous planning that goes into each event, ensuring every detail maximizes attendee experience. Get a masterclass in effective sales strategies from Sarah, who highlights the NEPQ method, and hear from Jeff about the future direction of MiHi Entertainment, heavily influenced by advancements in AI and technology. This episode is packed with actionable insights and intriguing revelations that you won't want to miss!

Ever wondered how a trivia host transforms into a powerhouse wedding event specialist? Meet Rob Maher of Elite Entertainment, who joins us on this enlightening episode to share his incredible journey. His company isn't just about DJs spinning tracks—it's an all-encompassing event extravaganza with photo booths, high-tech lighting, and LED dance floors, all delivered with a genuine kindness towards clients and vendors. We even get a taste of how Elite's DJ Ethan turned a standard wedding into a memorable bash with a perfectly timed "Devil Went Down to Georgia."

Navigating the DJ business requires more than just a good ear for music; it demands savvy operational strategies and a solid team. In this candid chat, we lay out the perks of running a multi-op service, such as Elite's decade-long success in maintaining reliable backup DJs and their personalized client service led by full-timer Josie. We delve into why Elite chooses to employ their DJs instead of contracting them out—following IRS guidelines to a tee—and their ambitious goal to expand their roster to 20 by the wedding season's peak, ensuring every event hits the right note.

The event industry is a complex dance of talent and logistics, made even more intricate by the pandemic's lingering effects. We tackle the decision-making process behind hiring employees versus contractors, weighing the challenges and benefits of each, especially in light of COVID's tumultuous impact. There's also a spotlight on the indispensable practice of networking, as we underscore the upcoming NACE meetings where wisdom from industry pros promises to spark growth and innovation. So, tune in for a dose of inspiration and an insider's look at thriving through the wedding season hustle.

Unlock the mysteries of turning potential clients into actual sales with Alan Berg’s masterclass in event sales strategy. As an industry virtuoso, Alan joins us to lay bare the transformative power of understanding your brand's core. We'll navigate through the nuances of selling the dream, not just the service, and furnish you with the tools to ensure your creative talents are not just seen but handsomely rewarded.

My personal pilgrimage through the labyrinth of lifelong learning underscores the episode's ethos—growth is non-negotiable. I wax lyrical about the artistry of adaptability and regale you with tales of jazz-like improvisation in professional life. Get ready to absorb the essence of friction analysis and its profound effects on customer experience, and how even the tiniest of hurdles can derail your sales journey. 

Rounding out our foray into sales and service, we scrutinize the subtleties of perception in photography and customer connections. We examine the impact of a photographer's rapport on client outcomes and discuss the broader implications for any brand. With a dash of storytelling, I share how service responsiveness influenced my HVAC choice, illuminating the critical nature of authentic brand communication. Finally, let's demystify the top-down approach to sales, where it's the result—not the price point—that reigns supreme. Join us, and you just might revolutionize your sales tactics.

Unlock the secrets of forging powerful business alliances in the events industry with our special guest Desiree Kelly, as we share the strategies behind successful B2B collaborations. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to enhance their event planning or management business. We take you behind the scenes of our recent enlightening chat revolving around the impact of strategic partnerships, the finesse involved in the booking process, and how to become an indispensable part of your client's experience. Desiree, with her deep roots in the vibrant Colorado event community, sheds light on the art of connecting clients with service providers that are not only reliable but come with her personal stamp of approval.

Are you ready to weave a web of strong business relationships that benefit all parties involved, especially in the wedding sector? Listen to Desiree and I recount tales of serendipitous networking that have opened doors to unexpected growth opportunities, and how embracing Zig Ziglar's philosophy can propel you to success through helping others. Discover how offering vendor packages can streamline your clients' experience, turning them into repeat business. We also celebrate the triumphs of becoming a preferred vendor, and the ripple effect it has on profit margins without the heavy lifting of marketing. For anyone hungry for community support and networking tips, this chat is packed with actionable advice on leveraging industry associations and conferences like the MIC to expand your professional network. Join us for this episode, where every anecdote is a stepping stone to building a more robust, interconnected events industry.