Emily Tiihonen
Oak Park
Summary
Results-oriented Special Event Coordinator skilled in end-to-end event execution and vendor negotiations. Manages large-scale events while building strong client relationships. Delivers high-quality experiences under tight deadlines.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Event Coordinator
AEG Presents
01.2023 - Current
- Coordinated end-to-end planning and execution of large-scale corporate, nonprofit, public, and private events (150-4,000 attendees), focusing on scoping, budgeting, vendor negotiations, production logistics, and post-event reporting to ensure seamless execution.
- Collaborated cross-functionally with marketing, production, box office, and concessions to deliver high-profile partner experiences under tight timelines, ensuring successful outcomes during nights and weekends.
- (Royal Oak Music Theatre & Masonic Temple Detroit)
Event Director
Whispering Pines Golf Course
01.2018 - 01.2020
- Directed all aspects of weddings, corporate outings, and private events, overseeing venue walkthroughs, vendor contracting, budgeting, staffing, timelines, and guest experience execution to ensure seamless events.
- Cultivated vendor and client relationships while managing multiple events simultaneously, ensuring financial accuracy, contract compliance, and thorough post-event follow-up.
- Managed event budgets ensuring alignment with financial guidelines and expectations.
- Coordinated event logistics for diverse gatherings at a premier golf course venue.
- Collaborated with vendors to secure services and supplies for events.
Front of House Manager
Meat Southern BBQ
01.2017 - 01.2020
- Oversaw daily FOH operations, ensuring optimal staff performance, exceptional guest experiences, seamless service execution, and successful large catering orders in a fast-paced environment.
- Managed front of house operations to ensure smooth service flow.
- Trained and supervised restaurant staff, effectively resolving guest issues to uphold service excellence and brand standards while supporting revenue goals.
- Trained and supervised staff to deliver excellent customer service.
- Designed dining room layout to enhance guest comfort and accessibility.
Education
Bachelor of Applied Arts - Event Planning & Management
Central Michigan University
01-2017
Skills
- Event planning and management
- End-to-end execution
- Show coordination
- Production and logistics coordination
- Budgeting and cost control
- Vendor sourcing and contract management
- Catering and rentals coordination
- Audio-visual coordination
- Staffing and invoice tracking
- Payment processing
- Organizational skills
- Attention to detail
- Client-facing skills
- Verbal and written communication
- Adaptability
- Professional demeanor
- Willingness to travel, work nights, and weekends
Timeline
Special Event Coordinator
AEG Presents
01.2023 - Current
Event Director
Whispering Pines Golf Course
01.2018 - 01.2020
Front of House Manager
Meat Southern BBQ
01.2017 - 01.2020
Bachelor of Applied Arts - Event Planning & Management
Central Michigan University