Our seasoned team of public relations and event management professionals are the pillars of our success. From planning and executing special events around the world to developing social and digital media strategies that deliver results, our team does it all.
Our Five Questions blog series aims to showcase the various skills and insights of our team members. Today, we’re spotlighting Event Manager Andrea Rhoads.
In 2017 Andrea brought her event planning passion to Castle, where she currently works to plan events big and small – from local holiday dinners to incentives across the world. Her event planning journey has led from conference and wedding planning on the hotel side to the nonprofit world and finally to Castle, where she has found a home on their team of talented individuals. When she’s not at the office, you can find Andrea spending Sundays cooking up her grandma’s cookie recipes and making homemade bread or searching the city for outdoor activities!
How did you get started in the events industry?
I have always had a passion for event planning—from my first taste in high school clubs to my four years in the University of Vermont Student Alumni Association and beyond. After planning countless student dances, reunion weekends and senior weeks in college, I was thrilled to take my skills outside of the college setting and into the real world. I heard about an open event planning position at a resort in Stowe, Vermont and jumped into the industry headfirst. I fell in love with the ability to execute a grand vision from an idea that was once merely a concept. From nonprofit event management to now planning corporate conference and incentive programs, the events industry has afforded me the opportunity for constant growth, creativity and the ability to meet some amazing people.
In the next 2-5 years, what do you see changing about the events industry?
Over the next 2-5 years, there will be countless new technological advances. We are already seeing how some of these new technologies have shaped the industry; allowing remote employees to engage at events, bringing speakers to conferences from halfway around the world, and providing unique entertainment opportunities for attendees. The next few years are sure to bring about more of the same — creating an event planning world where if you can dream it, we can do it.
What is something about working in events that would surprise people?
You never know what the day is going to bring! Even annual events bring new challenges and opportunities for innovation into an event planner’s daily day. We are constantly seeking creative event ideas, more streamlined processes, and more exotic event destinations. Every day is a new chance to build an event that can top the last. No two days or events are ever the same.
What is your favorite event venue and why?
I love venues that are rich in culture and “awe factor.” We’ve hosted a number of corporate incentive programs at venues that truly encapsulate the unique culture of that destination. The Alvear Palace in Buenos Aires was one such venue. The charm, quaint character, and luxurious detail made for an unforgettable trip for that year’s incentive winners. One of the best feelings I have experienced in my career is seeing a group of attendees walk into a venue, eyes wide with amazement and hearts full of appreciation, as they step into a whole different world.
What is your favorite thing about working at Castle?
It is without a doubt the teamwork. Our events team at The Castle Group is in constant communication, and no team member is ever too busy to stop and help another. While we all have our own projects and expertise, no one makes decisions in a silo. We have team members ranging from recent graduates to thirty plus years in the industry. It is incredibly helpful to be able to bring so many minds and diverse backgrounds together to problem solve and create meaningful events together.
To read more of our “Five Questions” blog posts click here.
