Hey Peeps,
This creative edition is with Menna Riley, founder of Parlour Room Events in Halifax, NS.
After working with Menna, I have to say that the words ambitious, driven and fun describe her well. I appreciate her taking the time to answer some of my questions - in record time no less - another attribute of hers; she gets things done.
Thanks again Menna.
1. Parlour Room Events has been in business for a number of years now. Can you tell me how the event industry has changed since your beginnings?
Starting out (way back in the 1900s), Event Planning wasn’t even a recognized industry. Now, with the proven results events have delivered over the years as the number one way to engage your clients and deliver your company’s brand as an experience – the entire industry has flourished.
2. Does your business have a specialty when it comes to particular events?
Parlour Room Events specializes in running high-end promotional/launch events for companies promoting a new product or service, or celebrating a milestone such as an anniversary, award, or new digs. We cater specifically to the corporate market delivering strategic event solutions for employee recognition, industry awards, golf tournaments, and even create one-of-a-kind signature events to help our clients and the charities they care about achieve their goals.
Our mission is to raise the bar, and therefore our client’s and their guests’ expectations of what an event is and can be by exploring creative ways to tackle strategic challenges. With our dynamic mix of PR, marketing and event management prowess, we aim to elevate all events to their highest possible potential.
3. What does Parlour Room Events do that makes it a favorite and memorable go-to for clients?
Our tagline – The Science of Unforgettable - says it all. We examine our client’s needs, we shop around for the best suppliers, we strategize and then plan and execute on strategy – we do all the things our competitors do – but then we add our own special combination of intrigue, inspired and unique ideas, and wonder.
4. Being a highly social business, I assume that you work with and promote non-profits and charities. Can you tell me a little bit about your involvement?
Throughout the years we are proud to be able to have been involved with so many charities on a local, national, and international level. While our firm doesn’t offer discounts on services, we do sponsor one charity per year with event services. We select this charity based on contacts we receive throughout the year and the timing of the charity event in question.
5. What would you say your method is for giving each event its own uniqueness and originality?
This is one of those “I could tell you but then I’d have to kill you” questions… Basically, it’s simple: We were born to do this. The uniquely inspired ideas we come up for each client are a direct result of all our experience combined with bold ambition and an ability to tap into a constant stream of creativity whenever and wherever we choose. That and boat-load of confidence. Oh, and unicorns.
6. What was the most memorable event for you in 2012?
That would have to be a tie between the Night for Progress fundraising event at The Halifax Club and the Masqueraid at the Museum event at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. A Night for Progress raised the roof and much-needed funds for the Progress Centre for Early Intervention, and the Masqueraid at the Museum raised funds for Bust A Move, a Breast Health fundraiser. The only thing I’d change about these events is the dates: they occurred within a week of each other (can you say busy)?
7. What current/future plans does Parlour Room Events have that have you excited?
Being named one of the ten CYBF's High Fliers has meant dedicated time devoted to improving and working on my business. What has us excited? EVERYTHING! Excited to grow, excited to hone some and expand on other business service offerings, to see what the next year has in store – 2013, bring it on!
8. In five years, where will we see Menna Riley and Parlour Room Events?
Untouchable. And maybe, just maybe, on vacation.
Thank you again Menna for those great answers and a look into your business and industry. Have a great holiday and a prosperous 2013!!
Laters,
Michael Carty
Michael Carty Website
