I also have a fantastic support team. We share a thorough understanding of what is important in order for the event to be successful. Maintaining successful and respectful relationships with vendors is also so important for success. Knowing that you can count on your vendors and they will deliver and make you look good is a huge element of the process. A consistent, calm and professional demeanor is also key for event professionals. As the lead “on the ice” we set the tone for the client’s comfort level and the rest of the staff. Keeping one step ahead of the trends and always being in the know regarding what is new and next is also hugely important. Being educated in technology and knowing which technology could enhance your events is also critical.
What are some of the challenges you face? Event planning is all about challenges. Knowing how to successfully manage the unexpected challenges and optics is the secret to success. The Toronto Event Industry has become a robust market. When I first started in the industry there were few vendors. Planners had to be super creative. I am proud to be part of an industry that has matured and become world class in a very short period of time. Walk us through a typical day at work. There is no such word as “typical” in my days. Every day is different; it depends on the projects we are working on and what the priorities are for the day. What have been some of your biggest achievements? Launching Francine Socket & Associates, Event Architects and growing it into the successful event management firm it is today. As mentioned earlier, I have planned and managed the MuchMusic Video Awards over 18 times. I have been inducted into the BizBash Hall of Fame for my contributions to corporate event planning and most recently was honoured by The Baycrest Hospital for my contributions to their event roster. What do you like best about the meetings industry, particularly in your region or city? Toronto has an amazing array of venues and suppliers. There is something for every budget and every occasion. Who are some of your notable clients? Rogers, Sony Pictures Television, Corus Entertainment, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Women’s Brain Health Initiative to name a few. How do you deal with the challenges of work-life balance? Due to the nature of the industry, we have busy periods and not-sobusy periods. Understanding that is very important. It is critical to fuel up during the not-so-busy periods so that you can be consistent and productive during the busier periods. Producing events is both mentally and physically demanding , a healthy lifestyle and taking care of yourself is so important. What are some of your most memorable events and why? I have been planning events for over 25 years. The most memorable events are the ones that have many moving parts happening at the same time. There are too many to mention. In terms of emotionally satisfying, we are satisfied when the objectives have been met or surpassed, the client is happy and everything went according to plan.
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