Member Spotlight Jenna Paulo

Name: Jenna Paulo
Occupation: Sr. Events Specialist
Planner or Supplier: Planner
Current Employer: Inspira Health
Member Since: 2022

How did you get your start in the industry?
I started out as a banquet server at a restaurant and catering venue for about 5 years in my hometown of Hamilton Township. I was a server at weddings, sweet 16s, corporate galas, etc. It was the details for me; ultimately seeing how everything comes together to make an event so special and memorable.

How many years have you been in the industry?
Over 10 years. I count my years at the catering venue because that was an essential part of my growth in the industry. My career following college started as an event coordinator with a local chamber of commerce, followed by a role in corporate law and now health care so I’ve had my fair share of experience in various fields.

What is your favorite thing about our industry?
My favorite thing about this industry is having the ability to learn and grow from each event. There is no such thing as a perfect event but when something goes off course (especially while in a time constraint), it’s what you do to find an alternative solution in a calm manner that makes you a successful planner. 

What is the best career advice you've received?
To always speak up. I admit I struggled with this when starting my career in the event industry. Events include a ton of moving parts that an audience doesn't realize. If you feel you are underwater, confide in your direct manager/team and work out a plan. I now look at speaking up as an opportunity to better myself while instilling trust in those around me which leads to continuous growth and a better work-life balance.

What advice would you give other meeting industry professionals?
To get involved! There is nothing more rewarding than getting to know other meeting industry professionals and understand we all go through the same hardships. Of course, all organizations are different, but leaning on each other for advice goes a long way for your professional development.

What is the most memorable event you have planned or client experience you have had?
At the law firm, we hosted our 2018 Partner Meeting at the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas. We hosted over 400 attorneys for three days and it was an incredible journey to be a part of  with such a rock star team, (shout-out to my former Faegre Drinker team and leader, Meredith Brusca)! It consisted of early mornings and late nights but to see the expressions on the faces of our happy attendees was priceless.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your career and how did you overcome it?
As most would probably say, the biggest challenge for me was pivoting to a virtual environment due to the pandemic in 2020. I quickly had to transition from putting reception menus and floor plans together, to learning how to execute a seamless webinar with a variety of technology components. It taught me a great deal about how talented we become as planners when put to the test. 

If you were not in this industry, what would you be doing right now?
I’ve always admired organization companies, (thanks to The Home Edit on Netflix)! There is nothing more satisfying to me than having an organized, clean space. I can also see myself owning a small boutique someday.

Where did you grow up?                     
Hamilton Twp., NJ (and if you don't think there is a Central NJ, there is!)

What is your favorite city to travel to and why?
My favorite city to travel to is Boston, MA. There is always something fun to do and experience. Our favorite spots include Lawn on D, Seaport, restaurants in the North End and a curated cocktail experience at Farmacia.

Who would you like to be for a day?     
This is tough as there is no one in particular but I'd love to be a singer... Celine Dion, Whitney Houston. If I had their voice, I'd be singing all day.

What three words describe you best?   
Hard-working, caring and dependable.

Describe your perfect day off?
My perfect day off would consist of an early morning start at the beach with a good book followed by lunch and shopping with friends!

What do you love about MPI New Jersey?
I love the MPI New Jersey network. There are members from all over the state from various organizations.