Event Life Podcast

Sophia Landry is the Director of Special Events at Allianz Field in St. Paul, Minnesota, home of Minnesota United FC. She leads the planning and execution of diverse non-match day events including corporate gatherings, private parties, weddings, tours, conferences, and community initiatives across the stadium’s versatile spaces such as the Grand Casino Brew Hall, Field Club, Roof Deck, luxury suites, and the pitch itself. A University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire alumna, she has been with Allianz Field since 2019 and is recognized for transforming the modern venue into a premier Twin Cities event destination year-round.

Gretchen Culver is the creative mind behind Rocket Science Events. Named one of the “30 Under 40 to Watch” by Special Events Magazine, one of the BizBash 500 “Most Influential Event Pros” and recognized as a top planner by BRIDES and Martha Stewart Weddings, Gretchen’s international award-winning work has been featured in magazines, online, and on [email protected]

Amy Fuerstenberg, better known in the wedding and events world as Amy Red, has a background in interior design and more than two decades of hands-on experience planning and designing weddings. Amy brings an artist's eye for composition, seamless flow, and genuine emotion to every celebration she touches.Since 2003, she's been a driving force in shaping the Twin Cities event scene, earning a reputation as an innovative pioneer who's always ahead of the curve and known for her precision, creativity, and uncanny instinct for what's next in the industry.For 20 years, as co-owner of Mi Mi Design (alongside her business partner), she crafted immersive, artfully executed experiences that set a high bar for weddings and events alike. Today, she's the Proprietor and Creative Director of Minne Weddings, her micro-wedding planning company dedicated to intimate, elevated, and stress-free celebrations that focus on what truly matters.Amy also lends her strategic leadership and creative vision as Executive Director at Rocket Science Events, where she helps orchestrate large-scale, high-impact experiences.Whether she's designing a heartfelt micro wedding or directing a major production, Amy's passion for creating meaningful moments shines through.www.minneweddings.comInstagram: @tinyweddingsmpls TikTok: @minneweddingswww.eventlifetv.com

Rachelle and Anna Mazumdar, the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law dream team behind award-winning Style-Architects Weddings in Minneapolis!Rachelle Mazumdar is the founder and owner with over 20 years in weddings and events. She left her corporate event planning career (including 11 years at American Express) to pursue her passion full-time, buying the wedding side of the business in 2016 after starting it in 2011. With an MBA in strategic management and operations, plus a BA in math and economics, she brings killer organizational, budgeting, and spreadsheet skills to elevate basic concepts into magical, personalized celebrations—complete with her specialty in custom menus and wine pairings.Anna Mazumdar, Lead Wedding Planner and Partner, has 13+ years in the industry since 2013, with a Bachelor’s in Mass Communications (Public Relations emphasis). She blends creative design, meticulous detail, and calm professionalism to turn couples' visions into seamless, stress-free events, supporting clients every step while anticipating needs and solving issues before they arise.Together, this left-brain/right-brain duo has earned over 20 awards, creating highly personalized Minnesota weddings that reflect each couple's unique story. We're thrilled to have them sharing insider tips, family-business insights, and more!www.style-architectsweddings.comwww.eventlifetv.com

Rachel Geertsema is an experienced event professional with a passion for creating inclusive and immersive experiences that prioritize the guest experience. She currently serves as the Director of Marketing and Brand for a collection of sister companies (Type A Events, Festivities, and Rich Field Flowers + Gifts). As Past President and current Director of Strategic Partnerships + Sponsors for ILEA-MSP, she is committed to elevating the events industry by promoting collaboration over competition.www.festivitiesmn.comwww.richfieldflowers.comwww.typeaevents.comwww.ilea-msp.orgwww.eventlifetv.com

Hayley Matthews-Jones is the Founder and CEO of Minneapolis Craft Market and Minneapolis Vintage Market. Since 2015, she has built a thriving market scene in the Twin Cities, working with almost 3,000 local artists, 600 vintage vendors and dozens of venues, the market is now an established part of Minneapolis/St. Paul culture. Across the two brands she hosts 120+ popup events per year and has retail store locations for Minneapolis Craft Market at MSP International Airport and Meet Minneapolis Visitor Center in downtown Minneapolis.www.mplscraftmarket.com/aboutwww.eventlifetv.com#holidaymarket #markets #shopping #local #podcast #eventlife #holidayshopping #popup #shoplocal #eventcreators #popupmarket #vintage #antique #localshopping #interview #hayleymatthews-jones #hayley #matthews #craftmarket #crafts #creators #artists #makersmarket #makers #makersgonnamake

Laine Palm is the Owner and Creative Director of Laine Palm Planning and Design, a Minneapolis-based wedding planning company she built from the ground up in 2016. With nearly a decade of experience in high-end event planning, Laine helps couples create celebrations that feel personal, effortless, and unforgettable. She believes in thoughtful design, stress-free planning, and honoring love in all its beautiful forms.Her work has earned her recognition as Best Wedding Planner and Best Event Designer by Minnesota Bride, a spot among the Top 5 Planners in Minnesota, and features in publications including Vogue Australia. With clarity, intention, and a whole lot of heart, Laine brings each couple’s vision to life.www.lainepalmdesigns.comwww.eventlifetv.com#weddingplanning #weddingplanner #luxuryweddingplanner #luxuryweddings #luxurywedding #weddingvenue #talkshow #eventshow #eventcoordination #eventcoordinator #podcastclips #weddingpodcast #weddingday #eventcreators #dayinthelife #eventwithpurpose #interview #eventlife #eventpodcast #roundtablediscussion #vendortable #vendorselection #eventvendorservices #eventvendors #eventlifepodcast

Kastina Morrison is the owner of Kastina & Co., an award-winning wedding and event planning company, and co-founder of Bigger Picture Solutions, a venue management and consulting firm. With a background in launching top Minneapolis venues like ARIA and Brick x Mortar, she blends creative design with precise logistics to craft intentional, seamless events. Through Bigger Picture Solutions, she helps Midwest venue owners elevate their spaces. Known for her love of logistics, theater-inspired production, and team-focused hospitality, Kastina is passionate about raising the event industry standard and creating welcoming experiences for all.www.kastinaandco.comwww.biggerpicturesolutions.comwww.eventlifet.comwww.greenstate.comwww.mattlien.com

Brittany Morris is the founder and creative director of Bella Mystique, a full-service event planning and design house specializing in luxury weddings, destination events, and immersive brand experiences. She launched the company from her closet in 2013 with nothing but a love for architecture, a deep passion for design, and a drive to create experiences that truly resonate.Brittany is known for her bold creativity, sharp eye for detail, and calm command of complex logistics. She’s not just a planner, she’s a designer at heart. From spatial layouts and color theory to custom vinyl graphics, signage, floor wraps, and statement installations, every element she touches is curated with intention and style.In addition to running Bella Mystique, Brittany serves as the 2025 President of the WIPA Minneapolis Chapter, where she champions education, innovation, and inclusive leadership in the events industry.Her work blends refined aesthetics with strategic execution, always rooted in emotion and experience. Brittany doesn’t just plan events, she builds atmospheres that shift energy, spark connection, and stay with you long after the night is over.#eventplanner #dayinthelife #luxurywedding #luxuryplanner #luxuryevents #weddingtalk #eventpodcast #vendortable #eventcreators #wipa #weddingdesigner #weddingdecor #podcast #besteventmanagement #besteventplanner

DJ Benny Nord, a Minnesota-born entertainer with nearly a decade of experience, brings unforgettable energy to every event. As the founder of Up Event Group, he leads a team of modern DJs and event pros dedicated to crafting effortless, exciting, and memorable experiences. Passionate about people and music, Benny blends vision and vibe to create once-in-a-lifetime parties, traveling wherever his services are needed. #djbennynord #eventplanner #vendortable #podcast #events #eventshow #eventtalk #eventmanagement

Sarah Enrico, the heart and soul of Food Gallery Catering, has been dishing up culinary magic her entire life. Growing up in the sizzle of her dad’s kitchen, she cut her teeth dipping strawberries and plating desserts in the pastry department. After a flavorful stint in new business development at Best Buy and a brief taste of teaching as a third-grade para in Minneapolis, Sarah’s true calling emerged in 2014. What started as a dream to open a restaurant with her dad became Food Gallery—a zesty catering operation launched with a bold “yes” to a friend’s event. Fueled by family, significant others, and close friends pitching in, Sarah’s savory creations and warm hospitality have made Food Gallery a Minneapolis gem.Karin Jasnoch is the Director of Sales and Marketing at Food Gallery Catering. Since 2021, she has led growth for the family-founded company. With six years in sales leadership at The Sheraton Bloomington Hotel and prior roles as a bartender at McCormick & Schmick’s and Sea Change, Karin combines hospitality and strategy. She focuses on creating successful events for clients.#eventsales #eventstrategy #cateringsales #cateringcompany #dayinthelifeof #catering #foodgallery #artofcatering #gettoknowus #gettoknowthem #eventcreators #podcastclips #podcast #eventplanner #eventpeople

Jason Brown-Hoesing is a results-driven leader with a deep passion for business growth, client relationships, and team development. Known for his strong foundation in interpersonal communication and leadership, Jason excels at building long-term client partnerships that drive repeat business and brand loyalty. Currently he is in Catering Sales at the Westin in Edina, MN.He believes trust is earned through consistency and takes pride in exceeding client expectations through exceptional service and strategic, thoughtful solutions. Whether it’s a catch-up lunch that strengthens a relationship or a meaningful collaboration that turns a client into a long-term partner, Jason sees genuine connection as the cornerstone of lasting success.In addition to his client-focused approach, Jason is dedicated to empowering teams. Over the years, he has designed and led impactful training programs that improve operational efficiency, elevate the customer experience, and support professional growth. For Jason, leadership is about creating opportunity, fostering a culture of excellence, and helping others thrive.Always open to new challenges and collaborations, Jason brings energy, insight, and a commitment to growth in every endeavor.

Sam Morrow is an experienced event and sales professional who is currently the Director of Event Sales and Corporate Strategy for Nature Link Resort in Nisswa, Minnesota and previously worked for Crave Catering as the Director of Sales and Marketing.

David Kisan is the founder of Sip N Bloom, a creative events company that blends floral design with immersive experiences. With a background in hospitality, fashion, and event production, David launched Sip N Bloom in 2019 with the mission to unleash the design thinker in everyone. Under his leadership, the brand has grown from local pop-ups to large-scale runway shows and high-profile collaborations with national fashion and lifestyle brands. Known for his innovative approach to floristry and community engagement, David continues to push the boundaries of what creative events can be.Taylor Olien is an interior designer and the Master Florist for Sip N Bloom.

Dan Schlueter is a Technical Director and Producer for events at AV For You in Minneapolis. Dan is a graduate of (IPR) Institute of Production and Recording where he has a degree in Audio Engineering, Sound Design and Mixing.

Founded in 2016, Events by Melody has quickly become one of Minneapolis’s premier wedding planning and design firms, known for its creative vision and top-tier service. Led by Owner and Lead Planner/Designer Melody Hall, the company has received numerous awards and accolades, a testament to their passion for creating unforgettable events and their unwavering commitment to excellence.#events #podcast #dayinthelife #eventlife #eventcreators #interview #eventmanagement #eventplanner #eventplanning #tips #podcastclips

Hal Lovemelt - Wiz Kid Creative Technologist, Dancer, Motion capture performer, Agency Creative Director of Experiential design. Works in NYC currently for the biggest virtual production XR and AI Creative studio on the east coast. Built the worlds greatest Video Booth.@mrlovemelt @feedback.video@eventlifetv#hal #lovemelt #podcast #events #ai #videobooth #performer #dance #studio #planningevents #eventplanner #eventcreators #interactiveevents #interactivevideos #motioncapture #creativetechnology #experientialdesign.

Ariel Gutierrez is a seasoned Event Planner with a passion for creating unforgettable experiences. Holding dual master's degrees in Business Administration and Leadership, he has been orchestrating events since his college days, earning multiple industry awards along the way. Ariel also trained in floristry at Kohler and Dramm, adding a creative touch to his expertise. He has been highly involved in the Minneapolis chapter of the International Live Events Association in several roles over the year, notably the Director of the Star Awards in 2025. #eventcreators #eventplanner #planning #events #podcast #ilea #starawards #international #event #planner #eventmanagement #dayinthelife Mentioned Links:ILEA MSP: https://www.ilea-msp.org/Voyageur Motion Pictures: voyageurmotionpictures.comReach Communications: https://www.reachcomm.net/Staging Point: https://thestagingpoint.com/IMAV: https://www.imav.pro/AV for you: https://avforyou.com/Benny Nord: https://www.bennynord.com/The Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesessionsexperience?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

James Adams is the owner and CEO of Twin Cities Skaters (TCS), which opened up a skate location in Uptown Minneapolis and also sets up pop-up rinks across Minneapolis and St. Paul. Adams is a professional skater, physical trainer, chef, event professional, artist and musician who has found a way to bring all of his artistic abilities together. https://www.twincitiesskaters.com/ https://www.eventlifetv.com/  @eventlifetv  #skating #podcast #events #chef #minneapolis #twincitieskaters #TCS #jamesadams #professionalskating #liveevents #eventlife #interview #ceo #smallbusinessowner #artist #musician #eventprofessionals #planner #plannercommunity #eventplanning #eventmanagement #skateordie #skatelife #talking #dance #dancer #skatedance #rollerskates #rollerskating #rollerskatelife #business #artisanfitness #fitness #fitchef #guru #corporateevents #nonprofitevents

Mark Nelson is a professional boxing referee from Minnesota. Nelson is licensed by the WBO, WBA, and IBF, and has been appointed to officiate over 100 world title fights, most notably Tyson Fury vs Oleksander Usyk and Manny Pacquiao vs Jeff Horn.www.eventlifetv.comhttps://www.instagram.com/eventlifetv/https://www.facebook.com/eventlifetv

Andrew Vick is an award-winning photographer, creative, entrepreneur, teacher, fisherman, husband, and father of two based out of Minnesota. Vick Photography is the acclaimed wedding photography studio which is the founder of the artist collective Living Room Studios.

Roosevelt Mansfield III aka DJ Digie is a professional wedding and event DJ, rapper and self-taught photographer who is passionate about unveiling the artistry in every family with a focus on capturing profound stories etched in facial features, body types, and nuanced movements. He has 24 years of experience working in youth programming in the public school systems, with 21 years in Saint Paul. Mansfield has served as the Middle School Program Coordinator for New Lens Urban Mentoring and the Metro Regional Director for Dreamline at the Sanneh Foundation for several years. Mansfield has received the Saint Paul Saint Award for his dedication to the youth in Saint Paul Schools and the Peace Maker Award from the Frogtown Community. He was twice awarded the Peace Jam Peace Maker Award for outstanding work in the Saint Paul community through music and community engagement. He was nominated for Educational Assistant of the Year in Saint Paul Public Schools. As the CEO of DigieMade LLC, Mansfield is an accomplished DJ and photographer and has developed trainings and workshops around student engagement, youth leadership, and relationship building – all of which have served him well as Youth Program Coordinator at Ujamaa Place.

Lauren Bohm has worked in events for over a decade as an Event Manager at the Machine Shop, Bon Appetit as a Catering Associate and at Girl Friday as a Project Coordinator and Manager. She also is a dance instructor and owner of the Bloom Dance Company in Osseo, MN. Christie Altendorf has worked in events for well over a decade and is the Director of Marketing and Senior Event Planner at D'Amico Catering. Christie also was an Event Supervisor at Carlson World Headquarters, Catering Operations Manager at the Minnesota History Center and General Manager and Director of Catering at The MN History Center for Bon Appetit Management and Catering Company. www.damicocatering.com www.machineshopmpls.com www.bonappetit.com www.girlfridaycreative.com www.bloomdancemn.com www.eventlifetv.com

Jenna Culley is a popular wedding planner based in Minneapolis, MN. Jenna and her husband Justin also own and operate Linen Effects which has been a staple event rental company in MN for years. Linen Effects is widely known as the best wedding and event rental company in the twin cities specializing in upscale event decor.

Whitney Gladden is the Owner and Creative Director of Whitney James Events. Whitney has worked in sales, major league sports and non-profits but has a passion for all things weddings. #eventprofessionals #planner #plannercommunity #events #eventprofs #podcast #venueowners #eventcoordinator #coordination #weddings #weddingplanner

Ben is the owner and operator of Ava, the newest bar and lounge in the North Loop, Minneapolis and a hospitality business consultant. Taheri is a downtown Minneapolis resident and “North Loop regular” who owned the former Tangiers restaurant from 2012-2017 in the 1st Avenue space that’s now occupied by Billy Sushi. Ava plans to pick up where Tangiers left off as the go-to destination for a mature audience seeking a metropolitan bar and eatery experience that's differentiated from the party-crazed bar scene on Washington Avenue. avampls.com eventlifetv.com #podcast #avampls #eventprofessionals #events #interview #eventservices #eventmanagment #lounge #bar

Alex Knight, aka DJ Goodnight is a world class wedding and event DJ based in Minneapolis, MN. Alex has performed an impressive resume in the industry, with over a decade of expertise in thousands of events as a DJ/MC. He was a resident cruise ship DJ with Royal Caribbean's luxury Azamara ships and Princess Cruises in 2015-2017, entertaining for diverse crowds every night and traveling to over 50 countries. He spent 2017/2018 entertaining at premier venues in Melbourne, Australia. Alex is also an event DJ with the Minnesota Vikings organization, DJing the official Vikings pregame parties at LongHouse at US Bank Stadium and numerous events put on by the team.

Drew Gneiser is the host and organizer of Creative Mornings Minneapolis and a social media strategist with over 10 years in the field. CreativeMornings is a monthly breakfast lecture series for creative types. Each free event includes a 20 minute talk, plus coffee. The job of the MPLS chapter is to show off the best and brightest from Minneapolis/St Paul. Speakers include designers, entrepreneurs, musicians, and creative thinkers. https://creativemornings.com/cities/msp www.eventlifetv.com

Corey Meier has spent over 10 years in high-end banquet and catering as a chef. He helped open the newly built Four Seasons in Minneapolis and is now the executive chef at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, MN. Corey has worked in many kitchens around the twin cities building his craft including Create Catering, a full service catering company in North Loop recognized for their impeccable service, quality and creativity. Corey has a very hands-on approach to being a chef and mentor; teach, educate and grow individuals so that when they leave the kitchen, they achieve higher positions. His kitchens practice zero waste in the efforts of sustainability.

Husband and wife team Jennae and Elliot Saltzman own and operate Minneapolis venue, The Whim. Jennae is the former Owner and Senior Lead Planner of her wedding planning business, Blush & Whim. She has a degree in Communication Studies from Gustavus Adolphus College and decades of experience in wedding planning, event design, and styling, Jennae's acute attention to detail and tight knit vendor relationships ensure that you receive nothing but the absolute best for your event. Their venue, The Whim is nestled in the heart of the Northeast Minneapolis Arts District, and is inspired by European art and industrial beauty. Jennae has been featured on NBC's "The Meredith Vieira Show", Martha Stewart Weddings, Minnesota Public Radio, WCCO News, Glamour, Style Me Pretty, The Everygirl, The Star Tribune, Brides Magazine, Minnesota Bride Magazine, MPLS + St. Paul Weddings Magazine, and many other national and local blogs & magazines. Elliot has a background as a sales and SEO expert which has played a role in their venues online growth. He also is the Author of 'How To Become A Million Dollar Speaker: The Steve Siebold Story' by Elliot Saltzman.

Ashley Cook is the owner of Ashley Skeie Events and Floral and the owner and creative behind the Annabelle House which is a coffee shop located in Osseo, MN. As one of the top local wedding and events planners, Ashley offers a variety of services from basic or partial planning to full-service planning. Over the years she's incorporated floral and design into her business which has become a major source of her business's growth. Ashley served as the director of the ILEA Star Awards in 2023 which was held at Urban Daisy in Minneapolis.

Jodi Collen is the Director of Meetings and Events for Great Clips Inc and has been on the International Live Events Association (ILEA) since 2000 as the International Board of Governors and past International President in 2015-2016. Before that she was recruited to join the Corporate Marketing Department as the Marketing Events & Marketing Production Manager to build the team responsible for the strategic direction, process development and execution of live events at Be The Match, which is the national marrow donor program. Before that she spent 12 years at Augsburg University as the Senior Director of university events. Sarah Cash-Darvell is the Meetings and Events Manager for Great Clips Inc and is a certified special event professional for the International Live Events Association. Before that she worked at Augsburg University for 8 1/2 years as the Director of University Events and as a Senior Event Planner. Sarah has also spent time working as a Catering Manager for Tri-City Restaurant and Management as well as the Girl Scouts of Minnesota and Wisconsin River Valleys as a membership specialist a Development Assistant. She is a graduate of the University of St. Thomas - Opus College of Business Bachelor of Science, Leadership Management and Entrepreneurship.

Amy Knight is the owner of Urban Daisy, a premier wedding and event venue in Minneapolis, MN. She's for sure one of, if not the kindest person you might come across in the event industry. Her story of how she got into the event industry is worth a listen. In this episode we share lots of stories and laughs as we learn about how Urban Daisy got started and how it became the success it's now known for. #premiere #wedding #venue #minneapolis #eventplanner #weddingpros #luxury #podcast #bestpodcastmoments #bestvenue #eventcoordinator #talkshow #venuelife #catering #professionals #industry #eventlife

Meghan Gustafson currently works for the Minneapolis downtown council as the Director of Events and Programs. She previously worked for the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis, MN as the Events Manager for over a decade. She's known for running massive productions such as the Basilica Block Party, the Aquatennial and the Minneapolis Holidazzle. In this episode of the Event Life Podcast, Meghan talks about her time in her various roles over the years working for large scale event creators. Check it out now!

Join us for an electrifying journey into the vibrant world of events with Episode 2 of the Event Life Podcast, where we delve deep into the fascinating tales of two remarkable individuals, Thao and Tom Moore of Green Mangos Catering. As cherished friends and esteemed collaborators, their dedication to their craft shines through every moment of this riveting episode. Prepare to be captivated by the warmth and charisma of Thao and Tom as they regale us with their tales of triumph and tribulation. Whether you're a seasoned event professional or simply a connoisseur of great storytelling, Episode 2 of the Event Life Podcast promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you inspired, uplifted, and craving for more. Tune in and join the celebration of the extraordinary journey of Green Mangos Catering, where every moment is infused with passion, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Welcome to the Event Life Podcast! I'm your host, Esteban Cuadros, and joining me is our cohost, Jessica Barrett. In this episode, we're thrilled to have special guests Omaur Bliss and Grant Jones. Omaur, known for his skills as a DJ, MC, producer and more, joins us alongside Grant, a versatile talent in DJing, MCing, and comedy to name a few. Together and individually, they bring a wealth of experience to the table. Join us for a lively and engaging conversation as we explore their journey in the events industry. From their beginnings to their current collaborations, we cover a wide range of topics. Get ready for laughs, insights, and plenty of behind-the-scenes stories as we delve into the vibrant life of event professionals. Tune in and enjoy the ride!