20230407 Ellie Sandbacka

Guest Speaker Introduction
- Allison Barker is a guest speaker for the Toronto School of Management.
- The hospitality and tourism program caters mostly to international students.
- Students are encouraged to learn from professionals and gather insights for their careers.
About Allison
- 24 years old, based in Toronto.
- Graduated from OCAD in 2020, specializing in material art, design, textiles, and jewelry making.
- 7 years of hospitality experience starting at age 15.
- Transitioned into the fashion industry and currently owns a brand.

Career Path in Hospitality
- Started as a buzzer at a fish and chip restaurant.
- Moved to a banquet hall where she worked various roles: server, bartender, wedding coordinator.
- Growth in the hospitality industry is attainable; she began her journey at age 15 and became a coordinator by age 20.
Training and Development
- Growth in roles often came with informal mentorship rather than structured training programs.
- Key takeaway: employers valued her existing relationships and experience over formal applications.

Event Planning in Hospitality
- Banquet halls primarily cater to weddings; event planning requires tailored customer service.
- Personalization and understanding client needs are vital to client satisfaction.
- Quick responses to inquiries and flexibility in necessary changes are points of differentiation from competitors.

Structuring Large Events
- Banquet halls often standardize processes to efficiently manage multiple events in one day.
- Communication and planning are crucial for a seamless experience.
- Cultural considerations play a significant role in event planning (food preferences, ceremony rituals).
Guest Experience
- Understanding that each wedding is unique to the couple, despite similarities.
- Managing dietary restrictions and offering diverse menus enhances customer satisfaction.

Advice for New Graduates in Event Planning
- Get practical experience as soon as possible; any role in the hospitality field is beneficial.
- Communication skills are necessary; a foundation in roles like serving can provide critical skills.
- Obtain certifications such as Smart Serve to broaden job prospects and meet legal requirements.
Cultural Awareness in Customer Service
- Understanding diverse cultural practices enhances service delivery.
- Adaptability is key in managing different client needs and expectations.

Resourcefulness in Event Management
- Success often relies on effective communication and teamwork among various staff roles.
- Example of problem-solving during a power outage demonstrates the importance of adaptability and extensive resources.

Collective vs. Individual Success
- Success in event management is a combination of individual efforts and teamwork; all involved must contribute to client satisfaction.
- Proper coordination and behind-the-scenes work are vital for smooth event execution.

Final Thoughts and Encouragement
- New graduates should embrace opportunities, confidence, and creative problem-solving in their hospitality careers.
- Resilience is important in dealing with challenges, often characterized by difficult clients.
- Remember the rewarding experiences and positive interactions outweigh challenges.