MICHELE HARBIN
Portland
Summary
Highly organized and detail-oriented professional passionate about executing exceptional events that achieve established goals. Experience with planning, budgeting and coordinating wide variety of both small-scale and large-scale events. Strong communicator and negotiator able to foster relationships with key stakeholders and vendors.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Catering and Event Specialist
A Catered Affair
09.2023 - Current
- Lead sales and business development efforts to drive revenue growth and expand client base.
- Collaborate with clients to define and align on event goals and expectations including menu curation and custom proposals.
- Manage event logistics and operations including staff timelines, offsite event load lists, and decor plans.
- Oversee key administrative functions in event planning, such as client consultations, vendor coordination, promotional activities, and invoicing
- Plan large-scale events such as conferences, weddings, and networking events.
Owner and Founder
Harbin Hollow
12.2018 - 06.2023
- Developed brand product line from concept to reality
- Sold & self-distributed product line in 10 states and nearly 80 retail stores
- Opened brick and mortar farm to table grocery store with food manufacturing facility
- Led digital marketing efforts including social media, email outreach, and website management for product line and retail location
- Developed and implemented inventory systems while managing employee scheduling, payroll, training, and HR functions, in addition to overseeing vendor ordering and payment processes
- Featured as a guest on multiple podcasts, radio shows, professional panels, and speaking engagements to share brand narrative and advocate for small businesses as well as women in entrepreneurship
Director
Portland TN Farmers Market
05.2020 - 08.2022
- Managed weekly farmers market operations, coordinating 15–20 vendors to ensure smooth execution for three market seasons.
- Booked and scheduled farmers, artisans, food trucks, and live entertainment to create a diverse market experience.
- Collected, verified, and organized all required legal documentation for vendor participation and compliance.
- Led marketing efforts including logo and swag design oversight, social media management, targeted Facebook advertising, and live radio promotions.
Business Development Manager
Quest Events
05.2011 - 05.2017
- Led corporate and social event sales across Tennessee, Alabama, and Kentucky, driving revenue growth and expanding client base.
- Planned and executed seamless events from concept to completion, ensuring client satisfaction and operational efficiency.
- Developed and managed social media strategies to increase brand awareness and audience engagement.
- Created tailored room layouts incorporating draping, furniture, chandeliers, and other design elements to meet client vision and event goals.
Instructor of Communication
Volunteer State Community College
08.2011 - 05.2013
- Adjunct instructor of Public Speaking and Speech Communication
Education
Master of Arts - Corporate Communication
Austin Peay State University
Clarksville, TN05-2011
Bachelor of Arts - Corporate Communication
Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KY05-2008
Skills
- Managing events start to finish
- Honest, open communicator
- Business development
- Building and maintaining meaningful relationships
- Social media promotion
- Creative, capable copywriter
- Special event planning and design
Timeline
Catering and Event Specialist
A Catered Affair
09.2023 - Current
Director
Portland TN Farmers Market
05.2020 - 08.2022
Owner and Founder
Harbin Hollow
12.2018 - 06.2023
Instructor of Communication
Volunteer State Community College
08.2011 - 05.2013
Business Development Manager
Quest Events
05.2011 - 05.2017
Master of Arts - Corporate Communication
Austin Peay State University
Bachelor of Arts - Corporate Communication
Western Kentucky University
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