MPI MN Profiles Planner Abigail Reitz

MPI Minnesota Chapter profiles Planner Abigail Reitz, Events and Community Outreach Coordinator for Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities.

Why did you join MPI? 

I am looking for a space to share new ideas, challenges, and successes with other event and meeting planners. In some cases, event planners are a small/one-person team and a space to collaborate is incredibly helpful. I have heard great things about the community at MPI and am excited to get connected.

How long have you been in the meetings/hospitality industry? 

About three years

How did you decide to get involved in this business?  What influenced you?

I have always been passionate about facilitating meaningful experiences and planning nonprofit events is my way of doing that. My first introduction to the industry was in musical ensemble tours and I was immediately drawn to the fast-paced, detail-driven nature of events.

What’s the most valuable advice you’ve received about working with meetings?

No matter how much you plan, some things will still go wrong. You just have to be calm, confident, and learn to adapt. 

What is one piece of advice about meeting planning you would share? 

Never stop learning. The event industry continues to change (as we are all acutely aware) and so we, as the planners, must continue to change and adapt as well.

What is one thing about this industry that you love?

I have always been drawn to large events. I love the people, the hustle, the celebration, and the excitement.

What is one thing about the industry would you like to see changed? 

I have appreciated the larger integration of technology into events that has been happening recently due to COVID. As we return to our “new normal,” I would love to see this integration continue, even as we begin to gather together and return to larger in-person events.

What are some of your favorite pastime activities?

Some of my favorite pastimes include playing board games, cooking, hiking, and rock climbing.