I got into the events industry because before I’d even finished my marketing degree I realised I didn't want to get into advertising as originally planned, so when I finished I went travelling. While on my travels I had far too much time to think and came to the conclusion my organisational skills would be suited to a life in events. I have however ended up working in marketing, but with a focus on events.
I have worked here since April 2011.
I was attracted to this particular role because of the variety of events, clients and projects I’m involved with. Some may have thought it risky to join a start-up agency but the sheer enthusiasm of my boss, the attitude of the team and the whole feel of the agency was very attractive.
Not many people know that at the age of 15 I was signed by Steps’ management agency and was set to become "the new Billie Piper". I recorded a few singles but then signed another contract and went on to play with a band.
My worst experience at an event was when I was involved in organising a beer pouring competition for a major beer brand. The client was supplying the beer but it didn't turn up. Trying to run a beer pouring competition without any beer wasn't an easy feet.
If there's one thing I've learnt it's that getting stressed doesn't help a situation. The best thing you can do is keep calm, breathe and stay focused.
The best event I've been involved in was my first ever event. I was involved in the King Kong film premier party. I was only 22 years old and the production company I’d just started working for allowed me to attend as a guest, so I didn’t even have to work.
If I could do it all over again I would have gone straight to work for an events agency. But I guess my degree and event production company experience gave me a good background and without them I wouldn’t be in the position I am today.
The one thing I can't stand is inconsistent communication – when people are nice one minute but not the next – or unreliable suppliers; their reliability can be out of your control and the resulting stress is the worst I’ve ever known.
Outside of work I enjoy writing music, taking part in my book club, and the usual things like reading, cinema trips and good food and wine with friends.
If money were no object I would travel more, but still work. I’d plan lots of long holidays. I’d also buy a home of my own.
The one event I will never miss is going home to Salisbury for Christmas to see my family.
The next 12 months will be very, very busy. The Tailor is still in its first year of trading so everything is very new and exciting.
If I could switch places with anyone else in the industry I wouldn’t. I think it’s dangerous to make wishes like that.
If I ruled the event industry I would move our office into the same building as an Urban Outfitters.
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