MPI Minnesota Profiles Planner Jane Stacy

MPI Minnesota profiles Planner Jane Stacy, Event and Meeting Professional.

Why did you join MPI? 
As a meeting professional, I feel that it’s important to be connected to the industry; to meet new people, to learn new things. As I transition through my career search, I want to stay abreast of new ideas and get connected with a community of my peers.

How long have you been in the meetings/hospitality industry? 
I’ve been an event professional for about 13 years, all in the Association/Non-Profit industry.

How did you decide to get involved in this business?  What influenced you?
I stumbled into this business. The event planner at my former company quit, and my supervisor pointed at me and said, “you’re it.” I had no experience and had no idea what I was doing. Once I learned a little bit, I discovered that I was really good at event planning, and that I actually enjoyed it!

What’s the most valuable advice you’ve received about working with meetings? 
Event and meeting planning is 99% planning, and 1% the actual event. If you’ve planned the event correctly, you should be ready for anything!

What is one piece of advice about meeting planning you would share?
It kind of goes along with the advice I’ve received:  plan the event correctly, be ready for contingencies and make sure the event is ready to go at least two days before the actual event. That way, you are ready for any fires that need to be put out before the day of the event.

What is one thing about this industry that you love?
I like that there are so many resources available now that weren’t available even 5 years ago. It makes the planning of an event easier and more seamless.

What do you do outside of work?  
We are remodeling out house a bit right now; we just finished a huge kitchen remodel, and now are focusing on other parts of our house.  My husband and I also love to walk around the lakes with our dog, Snickers.

I am enjoying meeting some of you via Zoom meetings, and can’t wait to meet everyone in person! I have signed up for the Membership Committee and look forward to making a difference!