Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Geleerd.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
From the mid-1990s through 2009, I co-owned a well-known production company whose focus was primarily entertainment resources for many of the North Shore’s social clientele. As with all businesses, there were ebbs and flows, but the recession that hit in 2008 impacted the business terribly.
Simultaneously, my marriage ended and I found myself 40 years old, unemployed, with no idea what direction to take. I quickly learned that although I ran a business for my entire adult life, technology and processes had changed and I didn’t feel confident or qualified to compete in the marketplace. I just knew I had two daughters to provide for and had no choice but to jump right in.
I had a core group of clients that kept me involved in the hospitality industry, but it was not enough to live off of. I was sought after by nearly a half dozen companies, many of which were competitors of my old business, who understood the value I provided and wanted me to work for them. Quite honored, I explored several of these opportunities and my formerly defeated attitude took a turn! Through these experiences, as well as of a few other opportunities, I was fortunate enough to hone my craft and build an entirely new skill set:-i.e. mastery of multiple registration and auctions systems, website development, social media marketing, fundraising, sponsorships, trade shows, brand management, talent acquisition, and overall event management.
When I got to the point that I felt I was armed with what I needed, I decided it was time to re-enter the entrepreneurial world, but this time, I didn’t want a warehouse, equipment to transport or repair– this time the resources would just be human and it was going to start with me!
The name RelEvent Productions has a story. I love business names that play on words and when I really thought about the common theme that ran through all my events, I realized all of my clients shared a common theme. Whether they were a non-profit that needed to entice people to donate more, a family celebrating a milestone occasion, or an organization trying to capture more brand awareness–each strived to host a relevant event.
And, just like that, RelEvent Productions, Inc was born!
Event Management is more than just finding vendors and negotiating contracts. Depending on the type of event clients are hosting, it can take between 150-400 hours to research, interview vendors, pick up needed items and produce an event. That is between one and three solid months– even more, when you take into consideration all of the other responsibilities vying for your time!
RelEvent Productions Inc. working alone or in conjunction with families and/or committees, help to make visions a reality. We take care of the smallest details and inherently know ways to save our clients money and time. We have strong relationships with vendors and can negotiate on behalf of the client with the inside knowledge that only a tenured event planner can offer. As crisis experts, we handle everything from the unexpected last-minute decisions to securing backup options for all things technical. We are masters of juggling details, people and prioritizing tasks.
Now, into my third year of having my business, I am honored to be working on social occasions, political events, conferences, community events, galas and fundraisers, team building, and corporate events. My event marketing division is taking off as I help businesses brand themselves and make themselves more relevant.
I can’t wait to see where it goes next!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
When I got back into the industry, I felt I would start back in the social market and ride on the heels of my prior success. A lot had changed in five years- A whole new generation of families were around and they didn’t know me! My prior business was no longer on top either due to intense competition. I needed a new plan!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with RelEvent Productions, Inc – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
Because I owned and operated an entertainment company and also ran a North Shore venue, I had tremendous insight on the behind the scenes aspects of two very big elements in the hospitality industry. Negotiating on behalf of my clients came with the understanding of what the real costs were and how they could save money but not sacrifice quality. And also, I helped them not get talked into something they really didn’t need.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I am looking forward to building my business to the point I can pick and choose when I want to work. Work-life balance can be tough – as of now, I think I have managed it pretty well.
My goal in five years is to be able to work more virtually and spend time in a warm climate during the winters. Most of my prep work can be done online – so taking advantage of remote technology can help me achieve that goal. I can travel back for crucial planning and the events themselves.
Contact Info:
- Address: 331 Milford Rd
Deerfield, IL 60015 - Website: www.
releventproductions.com - Phone: 8479759040
- Email: lauren@
releventproductions.com - Instagram: Releventproductions
- Facebook: https://www.
facebook.com/ ReleventProductions/
Image Credit:
Fig Media, Brad Floden, Kendall Covek
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