Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Professionalassociations
Locations
Timeline
Generic

SAMANTHA DARR

Houston,TX

Summary

Experienced Event Planning and Coordination Professional with a proven track record in negotiating and managing banquets, meetings, and large-scale functions. Skilled in client relations, menu planning, BEO creation, and ensuring seamless execution of events. Adept at training and supervising staff, managing inventory, and maintaining budgeted sales quotas. Known for exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to providing outstanding guest satisfaction.

Professional event planner with strong track record of delivering impactful events. Expertise in project management, vendor coordination, and budget oversight. Known for fostering team collaboration and adaptability to changing needs. Reliable and focused on achieving outstanding results.

Overview

24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Director of Administrative Services

Care Innovations Health Agency
07.2019 - Current
  • Optimized office space utilization to accommodate business needs while maintaining cost effectiveness.
  • Streamlined administrative processes by implementing efficient systems and procedures, resulting in improved operational efficiency.
  • Led, directed, managed and mentored four administrative staff members.
  • Updated reports, managed accounts, and generated reports for company database.
  • Facilitated interdepartmental collaboration by organizing cross-functional teams focused on achieving shared goals.
  • Continuously assessed organizational needs in order to identify areas of improvement within administrative services.
  • Developed comprehensive policies and procedures for administrative services, standardizing practices across the organization.
  • Maintained strict confidentiality regarding sensitive corporate information while managing document storage systems.
  • Collaborated with human resources to develop effective recruitment strategies that attracted top talent to the organization.
  • Implemented robust records management systems, improving information accessibility and reducing errors.
  • Organized and supervised office event planning and building renovations.
  • Created reports, presentations and other materials for executive staff.

Owner & Event Planning Manager

Soiréebliss! Events
01.2008 - 10.2024
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align event goals and objectives, ensuring smooth execution and positive outcomes.
  • Negotiated favorable contracts with venues, vendors, and suppliers, reducing overall event costs.
  • Oversaw budget management, carefully tracking expenses and making strategic adjustments as needed.
  • Developed creative event concepts with attention to detail, resulting in memorable experiences for attendees.
  • Led pre-event planning meetings with stakeholders to establish clear expectations and deliverables for each project phase.
  • Managed vendor relationships to ensure timely delivery of services and products for successful events.
  • Managed registration processes to ensure accuracy and ease of use for attendees.
  • Coordinated logistics efforts, including transportation, accommodations, and on-site support for seamless events.
  • Enhanced client satisfaction by meticulously planning and executing high-quality events.
  • Mentored junior team members, providing guidance on best practices in the event planning industry.
  • Coordinated travel and accommodations for event attendees.
  • Conducted post-event evaluations to identify areas of improvement for future initiatives.

Event Coordinator

Short Productions
02.2001 - 06.2007
  • Coordinated schedules and timelines for events.
  • Adapted quickly when faced with unexpected challenges or changes in plans, maintaining composure while finding effective solutions.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless event execution and positive outcomes.
  • Established positive relationships with clients, ensuring their needs were met throughout the event planning process.
  • Handled crisis management situations promptly, minimizing negative impact on event outcomes and client satisfaction.
  • Facilitated smooth transitions between event segments by creating detailed schedules and providing clear communication to staff and participants.
  • Coordinated with vendors to deliver exceptional catering and audiovisual services during events.
  • Oversaw volunteer recruitment and training efforts, building a dedicated team of individuals committed to supporting successful events.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Business Administration

Western Governors University

Skills

  • Registration management
  • Team leadership and supervision
  • Project management
  • Budget management
  • Managing events start to finish
  • Catering management
  • Agile problem-solving abilities

Certification

Certified Meeting Planner Certificate, in progress, Events Industry Council

Professionalassociations

  • Board of Directors, Volunteer Chairman, Wish Upon a Wedding
  • Volunteer, Transplant Center Medical Center, Memorial Herman Hospital
  • Member, National Association of Leadership and Development

Locations

  • Houston, TX
  • Dallas, TX

Timeline

Director of Administrative Services

Care Innovations Health Agency
07.2019 - Current

Owner & Event Planning Manager

Soiréebliss! Events
01.2008 - 10.2024

Event Coordinator

Short Productions
02.2001 - 06.2007
Certified Meeting Planner Certificate, in progress, Events Industry Council

Bachelor of Science - Business Administration

Western Governors University
SAMANTHA DARR