Laarni Reyes

• Supported senior leadership by developing status reports on activities related to planning, scheduling, cancellation, inquiries, resourcing, risk mitigation, and proposal development for various events.
• Developed comprehensive event timelines, ensuring seamless execution of all logistical elements from start to finish.
• Facilitated clear communication between all parties involved in the event planning process, fostering collaboration and efficient decision-making.
• Negotiated contracts with venues, vendors, and suppliers to obtain the best rates and services.
• Conducted thorough post-event evaluations to identify areas of improvement, leading to continuous enhancement of future meetings.

MORI Associates/ NASA OSTEM Engagement

Communication Strategist/ Conference and Event Planner

• Act as a lead meeting planner to plan, design, and execute NASA's OSTEM Better Together 2020 pilot in-person meeting
• Advise the client on the best practices in planning their events to meet government protocols.
• Collaborated with graphic designers, developers, and content experts to create a compelling event website and registration.
• Utilized project management skills to keep events on track while meeting deadlines and staying within budget parameters.
• Managed risk assessments and implemented mitigation strategies to minimize potential issues during project execution.

• Acquired efficiency in planning and executing

Virtual Meetings platform from a startup program

• Ensured smooth transitions between virtual program elements through effective stage management techniques.
• Implemented innovative technologies to enhance the overall meeting experience for participants, including mobile apps and live streaming options.
• Facilitated presenters' platform walk-through to ensure seamless integration into their presentations.

• Responsible for planning and executing internal, Pew-hosted, and tenant meeting at the 72 meeting spaces.
• Facilitated communication between teams handling catering, audio visual and room setup.
• Demonstrated flexibility in adapting to last-minute changes, successfully accommodating client needs under tight deadlines.
• Enhanced guest experience by providing impeccable service during conference and banqueting events.
• Oversaw event registration process by collecting and tracking attendee information.

• Joined a team of 3 at the meetings department to orchestrate the execution in their annual (5) day citywide conference in Toronto, Canada.
• Provided on-site execution of the meetings at one of the host hotels and the convention center, and supervised temps and volunteers.
• Optimized customer experience by delivering superior services and effectively troubleshooting issues.
• Conducted thorough post-event evaluations to identify areas of improvement, leading to continuous enhancement of future meetings.

• Provided event logistical planning and support for orientation programs, Alumni Roundtables, MBA Colonial Cup, graduation activities, incoming student onboarding, and various other activities designed to enhance the graduate student experience
• Scheduled and supervised staff meetings to discuss new ideas and update participants on program details and milestones.
• Maintained detailed records of program activities and participant data, ensuring compliance with internal policies and external regulations.

• Successfully planned and executed 20 meetings and events per year, ranging from 10 to 500 attendees.
• Collaborated with department heads to develop strategic plans aligning with overall company objectives, fostering a unified approach toward shared goals.
• Organized spaces, materials and catering support for internal and client-focused meetings.
• Worked closely with internal teams such as marketing and communication, IT/ AV support departments to coordinate efforts and maximize event success.
• Implemented contingency plans to address last-minute changes or unforeseen events.
• Produced concept plans for high-profile government co-hosted meetings and events.

• Supported the Director of Social Catering on all high-profile events, gala coordination, and fundraising.

Sales and Marketing Coordinator/ The Mayflower Hotel, and Marriott Wardman Convention Hotel

Conducted market research to identify customer needs and preferences.

• Streamlined sales processes by utilizing CRM software, improving efficiency and time management skills.
• Recorded accurate and efficient records in customer database.

Sales and Catering Manger/ Residence Inn Capitol

• Followed through with leads to close sales over phone, in office and during external consumer engagements.
• Met with customers to discuss and ascertain needs, tailor solutions and close deals.
• Achieved or exceeded company-defined sales quotas.

Seasonal Part-time Sales and Catering Coordinator/ The Ritz-Carlton

• Kept detailed records of daily activities through online customer database.
• Presented professional image consistent with company's brand values.
• Provided services efficiently and with high level of accuracy.

• Managed all the facets of meeting logistics, preparation, and presentation, including establishing meeting objectives, selecting and inspecting the meeting site, scheduling the meeting, budgeting expenses, lining up speakers and negotiating with materials suppliers, coordinating catering, and coordinating travel arrangements.