I’m an event manager at Lynn McCary Events, a New York City firm that specializes in planning and managing fundraising events for arts, cultural, and civic organizations. I get to be involved in all aspects of the event life cycle, from research and strategy development, to timeline management, to the “day of” production. I’m a generalist at heart, and love the fact that my job allows me (and really encourages me) to learn something new every day.
My background includes fundraising, grantmaking, volunteer organizing, and nonprofit management, and I draw on all those experiences to create compelling and enjoyable parties, galas, summit, conferences, and gatherings. One of the great things about working in this industry is getting to collaborate with and be inspired by so many creative, talented, and driven individuals. I like connecting with and bringing people together: get in touch with me, I know some great people you need to meet!
“hi, my name is…”
The world knows me as: Joanna Micek
I’ve also been known to respond to the names: Jo or Joski
I am wicked good at: Staycationing – I’m an advanced staycationer.
Least favorite house chore: Laundry – make it stop!
My go-to guilty pleasure food is: Cheese!
Favorite App: A three-way tie between Evernote, ToDoist, and Spotify.
Favorite quote: “Make better mistakes tomorrow.”
“The Hustle”
Job Title: Event Manager
Professional Superpower: Somebody called me an “amplifier” once, and I think that’s a really apt description.
My primary role in the events industry is: Planning and managing special events, which range from benefit galas and fundraisers, to meetings, summits, and conferences.
Years in the events industry: Four +
To me, being an event hustler means: Going above and beyond the call of duty to create engaging and well-rounded live experiences for clients and their guests. Thinking quickly on your feet and being able to rally others to get things done the right way.
The top 2 most surprising things I’ve learned about the events industry since starting are: First, just how fast the industry is growing. In the age of constant digital connection, the demand for live, in-person interaction is bigger than ever before. Second, how much event professionals really like their jobs! I’ve met so many people across the industry who are absolutely happy with their jobs: planners, venue mangers, caterers, designers, technology vendors, show producers. Whatever’s in the water, it works!
How did you get your start in the events industry? I have a background in nonprofit fundraising and spent a decade working for various New York City community based organizations. In 2012, I decided to take a break from fundraising and started working with Lynn McCary Events, which specializes in planning fundraising events for arts and cultural organizations. This temporary gig has turned out to be the most engaging, satisfying, and transformative move in my professional life. Four years later, I’m still hooked on events and looking forward to growing with the industry.
My biggest event industry pet peeve is: The “one size fits all” mentality when it comes to event design and planning. Define what kind of experience you want your guests to have, before throwing in all the bells and whistles the event industry can deliver.
“No such thing as TMI”
One thing that would really surprise people to learn about me is: I crack myself up with cheesy jokes. If you see me walking down the street and giggling, it’s because I think I came up with something funny.
You can only keep 2 albums in your entire music collection -those albums would be: I don’t want to live in the kind of world where you get to keep only 2 albums.
10yr old me thought I’d grow up to be: A professional traveler
Text or phone call?: Both
Android or iphone?: iPhone
Toilet paper roll – Over or under?: Under
Connect with Joanna:
Email: jo@lynnmccaryevents.com
Telephone: 212-629-8748
SMART TECH FOR EXTRAORDINARY EVENTS
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