Carolina Blitz
Winter 2026
Planner Partner Forum & Chapter Meeting
Embassy Suites by Hilton
Raleigh Durham Research Triangle | Cary, NC
February 26-27, 2026
CAROLINAS CHAPTER
SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY
An inviting meeting destination that sparks collaboration and success.
From unique meeting places to vibrant public spaces, everything in Winston-Salem is designed to inspire, uplift and engage.
At the heart of our Forbes Top 10 downtown is the Benton Convention Center, featuring 150,000-square feet of contemporary design and flexible spaces, perfect for gatherings ranging from intimate meetings to large-scale conferences. The Benton is walkable to more than 1,200 hotel rooms and directly connects to the Winston-Salem Marriott and Embassy Suites. Once done, meeting attendees can stroll right from their rooms into one of more than 100 downtown restaurants, shops, breweries, and bars.
Our sprawling city includes hundreds of one-of-a-kind venues, from historic estates and scenic vineyards to creative, Instagram-able settings. Let our seasoned sales and service team help you plan your next gathering in Winston-Salem, where inspiration is always in season.
Carolina Blitz
The Carolina Blitz is the official publication of the Carolinas Chapter of Meeting Professionals International and is published quarterly. All contributions, articles, and photographs should be submitted to MPI-CC Publications Chair. Send to Rachel Mintel - mintel.rachel@gmail.com.
EDITORIAL AND NEWSLETTER COMMITTEE
Publications Chair and Editor Rachel Mintel, UNC Chapel Hill
Contributing Writers
Seth Macchi, LEMG, MPI-CC President | Wonderland Dawson, 3D Hospitality, LLC, MPI-CC Director of Volunteer Engagement | Rachel Whitten, CMP, Visit Greenville, NC, MPI-CC VP of Education | Alex Morales, Kessler Collection, MPI-CC VP of Membership | Deanna Jones, Harmony LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce | Floyd Isley, Regional Sales Manager, Atrium Hospitality The North Carolina Collection, Planner Partner Forum Committee Chair | Georgia Homsany, CEO of Daily Dose Wellness | Kate Jansen, CMP, Director of Marketing & Sponsorships, Raleigh Convention Center, Red Hat Amphitheater, and Martin Marietta Center | Pam Strickland, Founder and CEO, NC Stop Human Trafficking | Ebony R. Loadholt, Urban Sustainability Directors Network, MPI-CC Education Committee Chair
Proofreaders
Melanie Mason, CMP, EnsembleIQ, MPI-CC VP of MarComm | Seth Macchi, LEMG, MPI-CC President | Rachel Mintel, UNC Chapel Hill, MarComm Publications Chair | Margo Ginsberg, CMP, Duke University
Publisher
Elizabeth Pike, CMP and Toni Floback Greiner Treeline Associates - info@mpicarolinas.org
Advertising
Elizabeth Pike, CMP, Toni Floback Greiner, and Sharonica Smith Treeline Associates - info@mpicarolinas.org
Design
Kistin Creative Studio • 704-724-9188 • kistincreative.com
Photographer Joshua Meeks | Visit Greenville, NC
MPI-CC Web Site: www.mpi.org/carolinas
ADVERTISING RATES AND DEADLINES
Quarter Page 1x/year
(3 1/2”W x 4 3/4”H) 4x/year
Half Page Horizontal 1x/year
(7 1/4”W x 4 3/4”H) 4x/year
Half Page Vertical 1x/year $420
(3 1/2”W x 9 1/2”H) 4x/year
Full Page 1x/year $640 $840 (8 1/2”W x 11”H) 4x/year $620/issue $820/issue
(Produced and provided by advertiser)
There are four issues of the Carolina Blitz published yearly. Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall.
NOTE: Rates are published as of February 2025, and are subject to change without notice. All published rates are net non-commissionable. Any cost incurred by the BLITZ for art that is not fully press ready (e.g. reductions, halftones) will be billed to the advertiser, or art that is not press ready may be refused.
DUE DATE: Due by the 15th of the month prior to publication. Artwork is due to the publisher within 10 days after deadline for space reservations.
SEND MATERIALS TO: Elizabeth Pike, CMP, Toni Floback Greiner, or Sharonica Smith Treeline Associates - info@mpicarolinas.org | PO Box 879, Lake Orion, MI 48361
For more advertising information contact Treeline Associates - info@mpicarolinas.org Visit our website at www.mpi.org/carolinas for additional advertising and sponsorship opportunities!
Platinum Sponsors
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Growing the Future of MPI President’s Message
My official presidential term has started, and I’m truly honored to be serving so many wonderful event professionals who are a part of the MPI Carolinas Chapter. And I hope to keep the momentum going that so many great chapter leaders before me have created.
We work in an amazing industry with some of the most talented people anywhere. But there's been an interesting shift in the years since COVID. Some of this institutional knowledge or talent is leaving the industry, and we're having a hard time replacing these people.
I think all of us know somebody who entered our industry by accident and didn't really know it existed until they somehow ran into it and learned to love it. That might be your story too.
In a recent article by Skift Meetings, they outline that there's fierce competition across industries to attract Gen Z talent. The events industry needs to be actively building awareness around what our industry offers. There are also great reports coming out that indicate future trends show that in-person meetings are imperative in an AI-driven world.
And this is where our organization can chip in! We need to welcome those who are interested in our industry. We need to see them and bring them into our group. Introduce them to the contacts you have. Spend some time sharing what you know. And be an active advocate for those looking to build a career in hospitality and events.
The MPI Carolina's chapter exists to support meeting professionals of all types, including planners, service providers, venues, and all the other professionals that bring events to life.
As we take on 2026, let's do our part to bring great new talent into our industry and support those who have given their careers to make our industry better. I believe we can make our industry better one person at a time!
Seth Macchi LEMG MPI-CC President
Our Members
New Member Spotlight
Jay Mooney
Best Tent and Event Rental
Where do you currently work and how long have you been there?
I just joined Best Tent & Event Rentals / TCS Event Rentals in Burlington, NC in October. However, I have over 25 years of experience in meeting and event planning from both the supplier and the planner side.
Tell me about your position and the organization you are with.
As Senior Business Development Executive, I am here to be a partner and consultant for our customers in the region as well as leading our sales team. CMG Ventures LLC is the parent company behind a family of brands, including Best Tents & Events and TCS Event Rentals. You can contact either of these companies to access the same high-quality event rentals and exceptional service. The former is well known for supporting more intimate events and functions with quality tables, chairs, linens, tabletop supplies, tents, and services. The latter is here to serve large scale productions and events with staging, bleachers, crowd control, and massive framed and pole tents capable of accommodating hundreds of people.
What are your hobbies?
My wife and I are foodies and enjoy exploring any culinary adventure we can find. I can cook, and have made awardwinning chili and barbecue. I have successfully completed six marathons and was a Mentor for the American Cancer Society's "DetermiNation" fundraising partnership with the Chicago Marathon. I also have a large record collection
Welcome New Members!
Genia Artis
Wilmington and Beaches
Convention & Visitors Bureau
Brandon Birkmeyer
Kristen Childers
Explore Asheville
Deanna Clarance
Kelly Dawson
Beth Donehue
Kate Eller
Vivid Event Solutions, LLC
that covers an expansive variety of musical genres.
Why did you join MPI Carolinas Chapter?
I had previously been a member of MPI Chicago Chapter and enjoyed being an active supplier member by participating in a few committees. I am looking forward to connecting with everyone here and becoming part of the meeting planner community here in the Carolinas.
If you were able to meet a famous person, alive or dead, who would it be and why?
I'm a bit of a history geek so I would love to have dinner with author Ken Follett! I love his passion for research and storytelling. Also, he is also known for his philanthropy and funding libraries in the UK and America, so he's good guy too.
What advice would you give someone interested in pursuing a career in our industry?
It takes being thrown into the fire to acquire the ability to stay calm and problem solve with creativity. Volunteer or intern to gain experience, observe and learn from the pros, and use the mistakes you will make to grow and become adaptable.
What is your ideal vacation/vacation spot?
BARBADOS! Fun in the sun, beautiful uncrowded beaches, exotic food, rum, and scuba diving.
September 5, 2025 - January 31, 2026
Todd Gillespie
Brittni Harding
Courtyard by Marriott
Carolina Beach Oceanfront
Eric Harrison
Melissa Haycock
The Raleigh Convention Center
DeAnna Holder
Impact AMC
Lakievia Johnson
Meet The Member
Heather Hansen O'Neill
From Fear to Fire
My guilty pleasure:
It's a pleasure, but I don't feel guilty about it! LOL I walk on the beach at sunrise almost every morning (barring hurricanes), take a pic (or 20) and share an inspirational message.
Favorite Vacation Spot?
Variety is a value of mine so my fav is the next place—meaning I LIVE in a destination city then go to as many other cool destinations as possible to experience life and meet great people!
What's your favorite part of being a member of MPI-CC?
I've been a member of MPI for many years (and have gotten and given a tremendous amount of business from it!) and I'll say that when I moved to SC and transferred my membership to the Carolinas Chapter, I've experienced a beautiful feeling of coming home!
If you would like to add a question and answer, comment here
My question is....how can we each bring our unique gifts to this chapter and serve better?
Lifetime Member Peggy Anderson, CMPE Anderson & Company
My guilty pleasure: Visiting fabric and yarn stores; wine tasting at my favorite California wineries.
Favorite Vacation Spot?
The World!!
Favorite spots include Australia, British Columbia, Florida (South Seas Resort - Captiva), France, Ireland, South Africa and the U.S. I love cruising - river cruises for their slow and relaxed pace as well as ocean cruises where you unpack once and visit a new port or country almost every day.
How did you get started in the hospitality industry?
By accident!! I applied at a Pacific Grove, CA software company, which was located in 2 Victorian houses! I interviewed for 2 positions:Customer Service and an Administrative Assistant/Seminar Coordinator position. I picked the Admin position, which sounded like fun. My manager told me I would be responsible for coordinating a 4-day meeting two months after my start - she would be on vacation in Europe for 3 weeks prior to the meeting! I fell in love with the process, meeting new people and no two days were alike!! I have worked in the corporate, conference and not-forprofit environments. I applied and was approved for MPI Lifetime Membership this year.
Lola Jones
Tripleseat Software
Stephanie Kerr
BioCryst Pharmaceuaticals, Inc
Dave Lawson
Staging Solutions
Events and Experiences
Pamela McElroy
Advanced Media Network
Courtney Meissner
The Francis Marion Hotel
Jay Mooney
Best Tent & Event Rentals
LaKesha Moore
Mike Murphy
American Audio Video
Ade Otodol
Charlotte Photobooth Rental
Ashley Schneider
Aisha Smith, CMP
RTI International
Nicole Taffi
Arianna Trnka
Plasticard - Locktech International
UGA
Call For Volunteers!
Our chapter is gearing up for another great year of educational programming and community connection, and we’re looking for energetic volunteers to help bring them to life. Volunteering in the chapter is a great way to meet new people, develop additional skills, support industry peers, and play an active part in making our events successful.
Opportunities range from one-time event support to ongoing committee roles to Board member, with flexible time commitments to fit your schedule. Whether you enjoy greeting attendees, managing logistics, coordinating service projects, or supporting behind the scenes, there’s a place for you!
CURRENT VOLUNTEER NEEDS:
• Education Committee Chair
• Director of FUNdraising
• Non-Member Committee Chair
• Membership Appreciation Chair
• Membership Ambassadors
• Volunteer Engagement Committee
If you’re interested in getting involved, please submit a Volunteer Interest Form to learn more. We’d love to have you with us.
Wonderland Dawson
3D Hospitality, LLC
MPI-CC Director of Volunteer Engagement [Assisted by ChatGPT]
MPI-CC Anniversaries
November 2025 - February 2026
35 Years
Nancy Lowe, CMP Fellow, HMCC MedForce
30 Years
Elizabeth Peeler, CMP CMM IQVIA
20 Years
Alison Harding, CMP CMM Medical Leverage
Malinda Harrell, CMP Fellow CASE Visit Raleigh
10 Years
Evan Carroll Attended Events
Lynn Skinner The Rizzo Center
Kathryn Stachowicz Hendrick Automotive Group
Beth Tanner, CMP HMCC Duke Cancer Network
5 Years
Brenda Redmon Daytona Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
1 Year
Victoria Allen Global Impact Agency
Logan Barber
North Carolina Nurses Association
Alyssa Beranek 21c Museum Hotel- Durham
Taylor Chase
Kennady Clark Kia Crow
Sara Dees
Gracie Dunn
Helen Edwards Spark By Design
Jessica Foster Go Team Events
Jennifer Gray (ISC)2
Emma Hodges
Corinn Hovis
Jill Jackson
Deanna Jones
Emily Jones, CMP RSM US LLP
Emily Lansford Enlyte
Aisha Madison
Courtney Meyer Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medical Association (PALTmed)
Alyssa Nahley
Lindsay Orem, CMP
Philip Pattle Debut Media
Zachary Reed, CVP Raleigh Convention Center
Britney Ritch Hendrick Automotive Group
Amber Scarlett Randolph County Tourism Development Authority
Braya Stokes Northwood Hospitality
Heather Tillman, CMP BD
Abbey Wilson
Genevieve Young Durham Convention Center
MPI Carolinas Chapter 2025 Year in Review
The MPI Carolinas Chapter had an outstanding 2025, filled with meaningful education, strengthened industry connections, and high-impact engagement opportunities for our members across North and South Carolina. With expanded programming, refreshed membership initiatives, and exceptional volunteer support, the chapter continued to grow and evolve in powerful ways.
Membership Growth & Engagement
Several updated engagement initiatives helped make 2025 one of our strongest membership years yet:
New Member Mix & Mingle
Kicking Off the Year: Planner Partner Forum
We launched 2025 with incredible momentum thanks to our Planner Partner Forum, which set the foundation for a strong year ahead. This focused gathering brought planners and suppliers together for in-depth conversations, collaboration, and authentic relationship-building.
Its success quickly made it one of the most celebrated programs of the year. We’re excited to begin 2026 with the forum once again—and we look forward to seeing even more planners and partners participate.
Volunteer Impact: A Record Year
One of the most inspiring highlights of 2025 was the extraordinary dedication of our chapter volunteers. Their time, passion, and leadership supported every event, committee project, and member initiative throughout the year.
As we continue to grow, we look forward to welcoming even more volunteers to the many committees that drive MPI Carolinas—from Education and Communications to Membership, Sponsorship, and Chapter Events. We encourage all members to consider getting involved and contributing their talents to the chapter’s continued success.
We re-introduced the New Member Mix & Mingle, offering a warm, informal space for new members to meet one another, ask questions, and start building connections from day one. These gatherings quickly became an anticipated part of our events.
Membership 101 (Formerly Lunch & Learn)
We also revamped the membership Lunch & Learn format into Membership 101 —a refreshed, comprehensive session designed to help members better understand the full value of MPI Carolinas.
We invite both new and existing members to attend. It’s an excellent way to re-engage, rediscover benefits, and explore the many opportunities for involvement, professional development, and connection throughout the chapter.
Looking Ahead to 2026
With a strong 2025 behind us, MPI Carolinas is well positioned for another impactful year.
Thank you to all our members, volunteers, sponsors, and partners for contributing to a successful and energizing year. We’re excited for everything that 2026 will bring.
Alex Morales
Kessler Collection - Grand Bohemian Charlotte MPI-CC VP of Membership
Monthly Meeting Planner
February 12, 2026
Membership 101
Virtual
February 26, 2026
Board of Directors Meeting
In-Person
February 26-27, 2026
PPF & Chapter Meeting
Embassy Suites by Hilton Raleigh Durham Research Triangle – Cary, NC
March 26, 2026
Membership 101
Virtual
March 27, 2026
Board of Directors Meeting
Virtual
April 24, 2026
Board of Directors Meeting
Virtual*
Spring 2026
Chapter Meeting
Dates and Location to be announced
May 5, 2026
Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID) Charlotte, NC
May 29, 2026
Board of Directors Meeting
Virtual
June 11, 2026
Membership 101
Virtual
June 26, 2026
Board of Directors Meeting
Virtual
July 31, 2026
Board of Directors Meeting
Virtual
August 13, 2026
Membership 101
Virtual
August 21 ,2026
Board of Directors Meeting
Virtual*
August 27-28
Chapter Meeting
Graylyn Estate – Winston-Salem, NC
September 25, 2026
Board of Directors Meeting
Virtual
October 1, 2026
Membership 101
Virtual
October 30, 2026
Board of Directors Meeting
Virtual
Fall 2026
Annual Chapter Meeting & Awards Gala Dates and Location to be announced
November 20, 2026
Board of Directors Meeting
Virtual*
December 18, 2026
Board of Directors Meeting
Virtual
*Board Meetings may be moved to in-person in conjunction with chapter meetings.
Reminder: Deadline for submissions for the next Carolina Blitz is Friday, February 13, 2026. Please submit any articles or photographs to be considered for publication to MPI-CC Publications Chair Rachel Mintel at mintel.rachel@gmail.com.
MPI-CC 2026 Board of Directors and Chairs
Leadership
President Seth Macci LEMG seth.m@lemg.live
Chapter Administrator
Elizabeth Pike, CMP Treeline Associates info@mpicarolinas.org
Communications
VP of Marketing and Communications
Melanie Mason, CMP EnsembleIQ Melanie.mason35@gmail.com
Education
VP of Education
Ariana McGill, CMP, DMCP Destination South Meetings + Events ariana@destinationsouth.com
Open 2026 Leadership Positions
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Finance
VP of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Star Robertson Parks Hospitality Group star.robertson@parkshotels.com
President-Elect
Floyd Isley Atrium Hospitality floyd.isley@atriumhospitality.com
Chapter Administrator
Toni Floback Greiner Treeline Associates info@mpicarolinas.org
Social Media Chair
Samantha Green Ewald Visit Charlotte samantha.green@visitcharlotte.com
Director of Meeting Planning
Shawn Clary, HMCC Worldwide Clinical Trials shawnk.clary@gmail.com
• Education Committee Chair
• Fundraising Committee Chair
• Meeting Planning Committee Chair
• Director of Fundraising
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee Co-Chair Joyce Worrell Concord Hospitality Enterprises joyce.worrell@gmail.com
Immediate Past President
Nicole Filippo, CMP Duke University nicole.filippo@gmail.com
Chapter Administrator
Sharonica Smith Treeline Associates info@mpicarolinas.org
Publications Chair Rachel Mintel UNC Chapel Hill mintel.rachel@gmail.com
Professional Certifications Committee Co-Chair
Tessa Barrier, CMP MHI TBarrier@mhi.org
Professional Certifications Committee Co-Chair
Tarshi McCoy, CMP, CHSP, TMP Riverfront Convention Center of Craven County tmccoy@cravencountync.gov
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee Co-Chair
Isaiah Griffin, CGMP DistiNCtly Fayetteville igriffin@distinctlyfayettevillenc.com
VP of Finance
James Belmonte
Hilton Durham near Duke University james.belmonte@hiltondurhamnc.com
Member Engagement
VP of Member Engagement
Alex Morales Kessler CollectionGrand Bohemian Charlotte alex.morales@kesslercollection.com
Director of Volunteer Engagement Wonderland Dawson 3D Hospitality, LLC wddawson3@gmail.com
Planner Partner Forum Committee Chair
Floyd Isley Atrium Hospitality floyd.isley@atriumhospitality.com
Member Engagement Committee Chair
Lola Jones Tripleseat Software lola.jones@tripleseat.com
Volunteer Engagement Committee Chair
Maria Lopez
Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau mlopez@visitraleigh.com
Look Who We Spotted...
at the Annual Chapter
Chapter Meeting & Awards Banquet!
Porn Kills Love
“Porn kills love” reads a popular t-shirt sold by Fight the New Drug (FTND), a non-profit that educates youth about the harms of consuming pornography. The t-shirt seeks to combat a popular myth that watching porn can “spice up” relationships. Research indicates that it does the opposite. Consuming porn creates unrealistic expectations about everything from body shape to the intensity of sexual experience to the willingness of a sexual partner to participate in certain acts.
According to the FTND website, research shows that people who
Ultimately, research showed that people who never viewed pornography had higher relationship quality. This was true on every measure. In contrast, those who viewed pornography alone reported lower relationship quality.
Not only that, but some consumers become unsatisfied with the digital images, and if their partner won’t participate in those acts, the consumer may seek out someone who can’t say “no” – a victim of sex trafficking. Research indicates that consuming pornography creates demand for commercial sex.
The porn industry creates problems not only for its consumers, but for its performers. Many performers are coerced into the porn industry, and forced to perform acts that they didn’t consent to.
As we celebrate this season of love, remember that a digital image can never replace true intimacy with someone special in your life.
Pam Strickland
Securing Sponsorships That Deliver Value
As meeting planners, we know that sponsorships are the lifeblood of many events. They provide the resources that allow us to elevate programming, enhance attendee experiences, and create memorable moments.
But sponsorships are not simply financial transactions; they are partnerships. In my recent presentation at the MPI Carolinas Chapter Annual Meeting, I shared strategies for securing sponsorships that deliver genuine value to both organizers and sponsors, and I am excited to expand on those insights here.
Sponsorships as Strategic Partnerships
When I think about sponsorships, I don’t see them as logos on signage or names on a program. I see them as opportunities to align goals, tell stories, and build relationships. A successful sponsorship is one where the sponsor’s objectives and the event’s mission intersect, where both sides walk away with measurable outcomes and lasting connections.
Identifying Opportunities That Fit
The first step is recognizing where sponsorships can add value. That means:
• Understanding your audience: Who attends your event, and what do they care about? Sponsors want to connect with those demographics, especially if they have purchasing power and influence.
• Researching trends: Emerging categories such as sustainability, esports, immersive technology, and influencer partnerships are reshaping the sponsorship landscape.
• Analyzing competitors: Look at what others are doing, then identify gaps where your event can offer something unique.
By approaching sponsorships strategically, we move beyond “selling space” at our events and venues and instead create meaningful opportunities.
Crafting Proposals That Resonate
A sponsorship proposal is more than a pitch, it’s a story. It should clearly articulate:
• The value proposition: Why your event matters and how it aligns with the sponsor’s brand.
• Defined benefits: Tiered packages, exclusivity options, visibility, branding, and customized activations.
• Metrics for success: ROI, engagement, impressions, and lead generation.
• Marketing integration: Show sponsors how their brand will be woven into campaigns, activations, and attendee experiences.
Sponsors want clarity, creativity, and confidence. When we present proposals that highlight both tangible benefits and emotional resonance, we increase the likelihood of a “yes.”
Building Relationships Beyond the Contract
Securing a sponsorship is only the beginning. The real work lies in nurturing the relationship:
• Personalized onboarding: Make sponsors feel welcomed and valued from the start.
• Consistent communication: Share updates, involve them in planning, and keep them engaged.
• Post-event follow-up: Provide reports, collect feedback, and demonstrate ROI.
Strong relationships lead to repeat partnerships. When sponsors feel heard and see results, they return and often increase their investment.
Measuring ROI and Telling the Story
Sponsors expect proof of value. ROI is not just about numbers; it’s about impact. Yes, we must track impressions, engagement, and conversions, but we should also tell the story of how sponsors contributed to community impact, attendee satisfaction, and brand alignment. Post-event reporting with qualitative and quantitative outcomes is important. Case studies, testimonials, and social media highlights all help sponsors see the bigger picture.
Creative Activations That Inspire
Some of the most exciting sponsorships today are experiential. At MPI’s World Education Congress, Freeman’s Aura Readings activation created unforgettable attendee moments and thoughtful connection. Live Nation’s Backyard Showcase at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek gave guests not only the VIP treatment but also personalized merchandise and premium experiences that drove engagement. These activations went far beyond logo placement, they engaged attendees in ways that built emotional connections with the sponsor’s brand and the event.
RCC-AD-MPI-CAROLINAS.pdf 1 12/9/25 6:35 AM
Final Thoughts
As planners, our role is to design sponsorships that matter. We must think strategically, communicate clearly, and deliver experiences that resonate. Sponsorships are evolving, and sponsors are looking for authenticity, measurable impact, and alignment with values.
My message to fellow planners is simple: great events happen because of great partners. When we connect the best brands with the best experience-making event planners, we create sponsorships that truly deliver value for our attendees, our sponsors, and our industry. There is no better place to start making those connections today than within MPI Carolinas!
Kate Jansen, CMP Director of Marketing & Sponsorships
Raleigh Convention Center
Why Energized Attendees Drive Stronger Events
We’ve all been there: a jam-packed conference agenda, backto-back sessions, endless networking receptions, and by day two, attendees are dragging. They’ve stopped absorbing new information, their networking energy is drained, and by the closing keynote, many are checked out—both mentally and physically.
Burnout isn’t just a workplace issue. It shows up at conferences and events, too. When attendees are overstimulated and exhausted, engagement plummets, connections suffer, and the overall impact of your event diminishes.
The good news? Event planners have a powerful opportunity to reverse that trend. By embedding wellness intentionally into the meeting experience, you can move participants from burnout to buy-in—leading to events that are more engaging, memorable, and effective.
Why Wellness Matters More Than Ever
Today’s attendees are juggling information overload, nonstop screen time, and competing demands. Conferences, while exciting, can add another layer of overwhelm since they often compete with work responsibilities and people juggling work emails and phone calls between (or during) conference sessions.
Wellness in events isn’t just about yoga mats or green juice. It’s about helping people feel energized, focused, and cared for so they can fully show up. When attendees feel good, they engage more deeply, network more authentically, and retain more of what they’ve learned.
The Business Case for Wellness at Events
Planners know every detail is scrutinized—budgets, logistics, ROI. So where does wellness fit into that? Depending on the event parameters, you can determine what magnitude wellness plays, but at the very least, it can be incorporated at a basic level to yield the following benefits:
• Higher Engagement: Stretch breaks, mindfulness moments, and energizing activities keep attention spans sharp. Attendees return to sessions refreshed and ready to participate.
• Lower Attrition: A well-balanced schedule prevents conference fatigue, encouraging participants to stay through closing sessions instead of slipping away early, or checking work email during sessions.
• Stronger Networking: When people feel less stressed and more grounded, conversations flow more naturally, leading to stronger connections and higher satisfaction scores.
• Positive Perception: Wellness sends a clear message: we care about you. That builds loyalty and makes attendees more likely to return year after year.
Simple Ways to Build Wellness Into Your Events
You don’t need a massive wellness budget or a full-fledged retreat experience. Small, thoughtful touches go a long way:
1. Mindful Transitions – Add 2–3 minutes of guided breathing, light movement, or reflection between sessions to reset energy.
2. Wellness Zones – Create quiet spaces where attendees can recharge with hydration, healthy snacks, or device-free downtime.
3. Balanced Agendas – Build in buffer time between sessions. Fewer back-to-back blocks encourage more meaningful participation and give people a chance to mentally reset or check email so they can be more attentive during speaker sessions.
4. Movement Matters – Offer optional stretch breaks, standing areas, or walking networking sessions to keep bodies active and minds alert.
5. Fuel with Intention – Swap sugar crashes for nutrient-dense food options that sustain focus throughout the day. Use snack stations as a way to educate people on nutrition. Add signs like “Did you know adding protein + a carb will help prevent sugar crashes?” and then offer snack options like hummus + carrots, cheese + crackers, popcorn + nuts to encourage energyboosting combos.
Moving Forward: From Burnout to Buy-In
Event planning is ultimately about creating environments where people can connect, learn, and grow. By prioritizing wellness, you’re not only preventing burnout—you’re increasing the odds that attendees leave your event inspired, energized, and eager to return.
When attendees feel good, they buy into your vision, your programming, and your community. That’s the kind of ROI every planner can get behind.
Georgia Homsany CEO of Daily Dose Wellness
Annual Chapter Meeting Recap Peer Expertise Takes Center Stage
One of the most powerful moments from the 2025 MPI Carolinas November Chapter Meeting did not come from a single slide, statistic, or soundbite. It came from the recognition that some of the most valuable expertise in our industry already lives within our community of event planners and suppliers.
Held November 2 – 3, the meeting’s education sessions showcased the depth and range of talent among professionals who actively design, support, and deliver events. Rather than relying solely on outside voices, MPI Carolinas intentionally elevated peer-led education by spotlighting event planners and suppliers who are navigating the same challenges, trends, and opportunities as their colleagues.
Kate Jansen addressed sponsorship with a strategic lens that resonated with both planners and suppliers. She broke down how strong sponsorship programs are built on alignment, clarity, and long-term value, reframing sponsorship as a relationship rooted in mutual benefit rather than a transaction.
Molly Johnson focused on sustainability, grounding the conversation in practical strategies that event planners and suppliers can realistically implement together. Her session reinforced that sustainable events are built through shared responsibility and intentional choices across the entire event ecosystem, not isolated efforts by one group.
Ricardo Hicks
delivered a timely and candid session on The AV Trap, offering both planners and suppliers a clearer understanding of common technical pitfalls that can disrupt even the most thoughtfully planned events. His session went beyond equipment, focusing on communication, expectations, and collaboration between planning teams and AV partners to prevent costly missteps.
Closing out the education sessions, Ebony R. Loadholt explored how planners and suppliers can use tools like ChatGPT to simplify workflows, reduce administrative strain, and operate more efficiently. The session emphasized technology as a support system that enhances professional expertise rather than replacing it.
Each speaker brought real-world experience and practical insight shaped by their work as event planners and/or suppliers. The result was education that felt relevant, accessible, participatory, and applicable.
The takeaway from the November Chapter Meeting was clear. While expert speakers will always play an important role in our industry, some of the most impactful learning happens when we recognize and elevate the expertise within our own community. Peer-to-peer education strengthens our work by grounding insight in shared experience and mutual respect.
Ebony R. Loadholt Urban Sustainability Directors Network MPI-CC Education Committee Chair
Looking Ahead:
With Excitement and Gratitude
As we step into February, I can feel the energy building for our second Planner Partner Forum. After such a successful inaugural year, it has been a joy watching this event evolve. The planning committee has been bustling behind the scenes to make this year even more engaging, fun, and educational. They took your feedback to heart and have been intentional in crafting an experience that will spark ideas, strengthen relationships, and elevate the work we all do.
The Planner Partner Forum flows directly into our first chapter meeting of 2026, and trust me when I say it is packed with relevant education from accredited speakers hand-selected by your Education Committee. These sessions are designed to inspire action, deepen knowledge, and give you tools you can use the moment you return home. If you haven’t registered yet, now is absolutely the time. It has been more than three months since we last gathered in Beaufort, and I personally cannot wait to see you in Cary at the beautiful Embassy Suites.
And let’s be honest: there is just something special about coming together in person. Sharing space, greeting familiar faces, making new connections, and laughing together between sessions all create the kind of joy and genuine human
connection you simply cannot replicate on a screen. Our industry is built on moments like these, and every time we gather, I am reminded of how meaningful and energizing our community truly is.
As this is my final Blitz article following the completion of my term as VP of Education in December, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude. I am incredibly proud of what the committees I have worked with over the years have delivered and of the growth I have witnessed in our chapter. Serving on the MPI Carolinas Board for nearly four years has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life, and I cannot wait to see what the exceptional hands of both new and returning leaders craft for the rest of 2026 and beyond. The future is bright, and our chapter is in wonderful hands.
I’ll see you soon in Cary. Until then, thank you for allowing me to serve!
Rachel Whitten, CMP Visit Greenville, NC
[Assisted by ChatGPT]
CONGRATULATIONS to the 2025 MPI Carolinas Chapter Award Winners
The awards were presented at the Annual Meeting in November at the Beaufort Hotel.
Planner of the Year
Ebony Loadholt
Urban Sustainability Directors Network
Ebony has helped shape impactful chapter programming that supports professional growth and industry excellence, and leads others with passion, visibility, and action.
“Ebony’s enthusiasm is contagious, and she brings fresh energy to every initiative she’s involved with.”
“What impresses me most about Ebony is her fearless leadership and willingness to rise to the occasion.”
Supplier of the Year
Kathryn Short, CMP
Visit Raleigh
Kathryn has been instrumental in the success of our chapter — always ready to step in, collaborate, and deliver results.
“Kathryn’s proactive engagement, reliability, and genuine enthusiasm have made her an indispensable partner.”
“What impresses me most about Kathryn is her remarkable blend of professionalism and heart.”
Tomorrow’s Leader
Maria Lopez
Visit Raleigh
Maria has embraced every opportunity to make a difference, from helping connect new members to committees where they can thrive to leading efforts to strengthen the chapter’s impact in local communities to bringing creativity and energy to fundraising activities to support chapter programming.
“What impresses me most about Maria is her forward-thinking approach to project management, combined with her collaborative nature.”
“Maria leads with heart, humor, and authenticity.”
Volunteer of the Year
Lynn Skinner
The Rizzo Center – Hyatt Hotels
Lynn has been a cornerstone of our chapter ambassador program, helping to strengthen member connections and create meaningful relationships across the organization.
“Lynn brings value, charisma, and authenticity to the chapter.”
“Lynn shows up with a welcoming attitude, ready to connect with others and make them feel part of the community, and is dependable, approachable, and always willing to lend a hand.”
Karen Wall Visit Winston-Salem
Karen is organized, dependable, and detail oriented. She has brought thoughtful planning and strategic insight to the chapter’s budgeting process and financial management.
“Whether she is managing budgets or crafting compelling sales strategies, she brings a rare combination of precision, professionalism, and passion that makes her an invaluable asset.”
“Karen brings a sense of purpose and professionalism to everything she does. Her quiet leadership and strong work ethic set a standard for others to follow.”
Corey D. Bizzell Award of Excellence
Star Robertson Parks Hospitality Group
Star continues Corey Bizzell’s legacy of excellence, passion and leadership in service to our chapter through her compassion, thoughtfulness, and commitment to making a positive difference. She leads our diversity, equity and inclusion work with heart and purpose — encouraging members to find ways to engage in meaningful dialogue, learn from one another, and work together to build a welcoming, inclusive chapter.
Committee of the Year
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Through creativity, dedication to making a difference, and servant leadership, this committee has created programs and resources to create opportunities for awareness, inclusion, and growth. From hosting DEI Connects events to creating DEI Tip Tuesday social media content to highlighting members’ stories that go beyond professional identity, this committee plays a key role in strengthening our sense of community.
President’s Award
Ricardo Hicks Tech Factory
Beyond offering his advice and encouragement, Ricardo invests his time and energy into helping others grow and to finding ways to help move our chapter and industry forward. He shares his knowledge through presentations at chapter meetings and MPI’s World Education Congress and is passionate about mentoring the next generation of AV leaders. He served as vice chair of MPI’s Southeast Regional Council in its inaugural year and co-sponsored the first-ever Southeast Chapter Meetup. His leadership and genuine care for others make him an invaluable part of our community.
Molly Johnson, CMP Fellow Wilmington and Beaches CVB
Often the first to offer to help, Molly is steadfast in her support of our chapter and development of its leaders. She implemented the chapter’s CMP Boot Camp and has presented education sessions on numerous topics at chapter meetings, MPI’s World Education Congress and other industry events. She supports our chapter and industry through her service on committees at both the chapter and MPI Global levels, and now through her work on the Events Industry Council’s Governance Commission. Her counsel, knowledge, and perspective are greatly appreciated.
Chapter Event of the Year
Planner Partner Forum and February 2025 Chapter Meeting
Host: Sheraton Chapel Hill
Meeting partners: Spann Man Media powered by Triangle Corporate Coach, Table of Contents, Go Team Events, Visit Chapel Hill & Orange County, American AV
The Unseen Work That Shapes Every Successful Event
The lights rise.
The room is full.
Music hits at just the right moment.
Attendees laugh, network, and immerse themselves in an experience that feels seamless. From the outside, it all looks effortless.
But what most people never see is what it took to get there.
Behind every flawless moment are weeks of decisions, hundreds of emails, vendor calls, budget trade-offs, last-minute adjustments, and quiet problem-solving long before the doors ever opened.
This invisible labor rarely makes the highlight reel. It is not glamorous, but it is foundational. Every successful event rests on layers of unseen effort carried by planners and suppliers managing far more than logistics.
The Weight of Administrative Overload
Across the industry, planners and suppliers spend much of their time navigating emails, meetings, documentation, and coordination, always against fixed deadlines and high expectations. Timelines do not move. Stakeholders are many. The margin for error is small.
For most professionals, the overload does not arrive as one massive task. It creeps in through dozens of small ones:
• Email threads that never quite end
• Meetings that generate more follow-up than clarity
• Documents that demand constant revision and coordination
Individually, each task feels manageable. Together, they quietly drain time, energy, and focus. Stress accumulates not because planners lack discipline or passion, but because the scope of the role has expanded faster than the systems supporting it. The work keeps coming. Deadlines remain fixed. And the expectation is simply to keep going.
Where AI Fits In
That reality led me to explore how I use AI tools, specifically ChatGPT, as part of my workflow.
Not to replace expertise. Not to shortcut judgment. Not to do the work for me.
Instead, ChatGPT functions as a thought partner. I use it to draft and refine emails, organize ideas, review language, and work through first passes of administrative content. It helps me move through repetitive tasks more efficiently, especially when timelines cannot shift and responses are required quickly.
Importantly, it does not replace my experience. It does not make decisions. It does not manage stakeholders or anticipate the dynamics of a live room. Those responsibilities still demand human judgment, context, and leadership.
What it does offer is support.
A Broader Workplace Reality
This experience reflects broader workplace trends. Microsoft has documented year over year increases in email volume, meetings, and follow-up actions across modern work environments. For event planners and suppliers, that administrative load is amplified by the complexity and visibility of live experiences.
Used strategically, tools like ChatGPT can help reduce some of the strain that contributes to burnout, not by asking planners to do more, but by helping them resolve certain tasks faster and with less mental energy.
The conversation is not about replacing people. It is about supporting them.
Strengthening Events by Supporting Planners
When administrative work is better managed, planners and suppliers gain the capacity to think clearly, align stakeholders, and execute with intention. Decisions move faster. Resources are used more thoughtfully. Events are better positioned to deliver meaningful outcomes.
The quality of any event will always reflect the support behind it. And when the unseen work is acknowledged and addressed, everything else gets stronger.
Events may look effortless, but they are built on effort, and the right support makes that effort sustainable.
Ebony R. Loadholt Urban Sustainability Directors Network
MPI-CC Education Committee
Chair
That’s right — this year, we’re embracing a new twist on PPF: Planner Partner Fun (thank you, Rachel Whitten!). Because what better way to spark meaningful relationships than with a little laughter, learning, and shared experience?
Whether you’re a planner looking to discover fresh venues and ideas, or a supplier eager to showcase your brand and build lasting partnerships, this forum is your one-stop opportunity to connect in a genuine and memorable way.
What Makes This Year Special
The PPF Committee has been hard at work curating a dynamic agenda designed to keep you energized and inspired. Expect:
• Engaging one-on-one connections between planners and partners that go beyond the business card exchange.
• Thought-provoking education sessions tied to current industry trends and real-world challenges.
• Interactive networking moments that leave room for both meaningful conversation and, of course, a few surprises (did someone say “Planner Partner Fun?”).
And because the event is being hosted right here at my home property — the beautiful Embassy Suites Raleigh Durham Research Triangle — you can expect Atrium Hospitality’s signature Southern hospitality, outstanding food, and exceptional spaces designed to keep your ideas flowing and spirits high.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
The PPF is more than an event — it’s a community experience. You’ll leave with new insights, renewed enthusiasm, and a stronger network of peers who truly “get” the meeting and hospitality world.
So, whether you’re a first-time attendee or a returning friend, come ready to share, connect, and have some Planner Partner Fun!
Register today!
Visit the event page at Home - 2026 MPI Carolinas Planner Partner Forum and Chapter Meeting for all the details, including agenda highlights, FAQs, and lodging info.
We can’t wait to welcome you to Raleigh-Durham for this can’t-miss kickoff to an incredible 2026. See you there!
Planner Partner Forum Where Connections Meet Fun!
Floyd Isley
hotel. Walkable downtown. Unforgettable meetings. Host your next event in the heart of High Point.
Is the Only Place You Can Find Your Members on an Excel Spreadsheet?
I've been a chronic association-joiner for the past four years. I love getting out, meeting new people, learning about what they do for a living, taking goofy pictures, and eating dry chicken for lunch (okay, maybe not that last part). I find purpose in being part of something meaningful. I connect with fellow members to see how I can help or be helped.
I've been a name on a roster for many associations I've joined. I signed up, but then I fell into a black hole. No one reached out after I joined, and I usually forget I'm even a member until I get the renewal notice.
My name will quickly drop off that Excel spreadsheet if I don't have a purpose or could make an impact.
Studies show that organizations offering meaningful, purpose-driven experiences make members 12 times more likely to engage. Associations are full of individuals who aren't expected to join for networking or resources—they want to feel part of something that aligns with their values and provides purpose.
Here's where the difference came in: This person followed up by calling me. (Who even calls people anymore?) I found out he was the President of the Chamber. He shared a bit about the Chamber's mission and asked, "What educational event could we have that would benefit you?" I almost wondered if he had confused me with someone else, but he was genuinely asking me. In that one 5-minute call, he made a meaningful ask that perfectly aligned with the organization's mission. Today, I'm proud to say I'm the President of that same Chamber.
Associations must prioritize offering purpose and impact to their members if they want them to become the next generation of leaders.
I attended a Chamber meeting about three years ago and didn't know anyone. I was already planning my polite exit, glancing at my watch to see how long I could endure before getting away. But then, someone stopped me and started asking about the stories of my life. I enjoyed the conversation, but wasn't even sure I wanted to join.
In today's fast-evolving world, associations can no longer afford to let their members remain names on an Excel spreadsheet. Associations must prioritize offering purpose and impact to their members if they want them to become the next generation of leaders. In the next few weeks, closely examine your membership roster. Who on that list is just a name that gets renewal notices? Are you offering them purpose and impact, creating an inclusive culture, and providing professional growth and development opportunities? Eventually, you'll see results and more names appearing on active committees and Board seats. The time to convert those names into active, enthusiastic members is now—your association's future depends on it.
Deanna Jones President of the Harmony LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce
Trying to figure out how to get your group from dinner to drinks? At Kalahari, it’s just a short walk away. Ditch the mad rush to meet a driver and kick surge pricing to the curb. Whether you’re looking for larger group dining options, live entertainment, or the perfect spot for a nightcap, Kalahari has everything you need for your team-building activities all under one roof.