MPI MN Up-close Profile Supplier: Jennifer Teter

MPI MN Supplier Profile for May is Jennifer Teter, Catering Sales Manager, Courtyard by Marriott Bloomington at Mall of America, jteter@csmcorp.net

Why did you join MPI?  

I joined MPI to get to know like-minded people, people who enjoy the work they do as much as I do.  I also enjoy learning from the experiences of others, and the MPI meetings have been a great way to do that.  As a supplier in this industry, it is great to connect with other suppliers to see what has worked well for them.  It is also fun to connect with the planners to learn more about what we can do to make their jobs easier.

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

In one capacity or another, I have been involved in the industry for the past six years.

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

As an Executive Assistant in my previous job, I was tasked with preparing and opening a building they purchased as an event center for weddings and other events.  It was definitely trial by fire, and I am thankful for those I met along the way who were willing to teach me what they knew. From that job, I entered the world of hospitality where I am today.

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

Listen beyond the words being spoken.   

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

Be real/genuine with people.    

What is one thing about this industry that you love?

Problem solving and working with people.

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

While modern technology has benefited us by delivering tools that save us time, we have lost a bit of the human connection making it difficult for each side to fully understand the needs of the other.  I would love to see us find a balance.
What do you do outside of work?  

I was a personal trainer and fitness club owner in my “previous life”, and I still enjoy running and working out!  I also spend as much time as I can with my two grandkids. I like to travel, read, and write, and to spend time with friends over lunch or coffee.