Behind the Hustle: Merlin Pina-Sturges (@Nylrem_)

I’m an ideas crafter, a chaos tamer, and a relationship builder; which is another way of saying that I am an Event Planner with a knack for solving logistical puzzles and a love for creating experiences.
Currently I’m a freelancer focusing on food and drink events in New York City. Through my projects, I’ve been involved in every step of the strategic planning process, from day-to-day operations and communications, to sponsor and vendor recruitment. Prior to discovering the world of events, I dedicated four years to working as an academic liaison and coordinator for NYC public schools; and while I may no longer be in the classroom, I am strong advocate and an avid volunteer for education-based nonprofits.

“hi, my name is…”

The world knows me as: Merlin Pina-Sturges (Yes, Merlin!)

I’ve also been known to respond to the names: Wizard, of course.

I am wicked good at: Cooking up some ridiculously good food

Least favorite house chore: Every step of the laundry process

My go-to guilty pleasure food is: Junior’s Blueberry Cheesecake

Favorite App: Todoist

Favorite quote: “The more I live, the more I learn. The more I learn, the more I realize, the less I know.”

“The Hustle”

Job Title: Event Planner

Professional Superpower: Taming Chaos!

My primary role in the events industry is: Communicating visions, coordinating vendors, and on-site management

Years in the events industry: 1.5 years

To me, being an event hustler means: Getting things done, no matter what.

The top 2 most surprising things I’ve learned about the events industry since starting are: First, you can’t be afraid of the “never been done” if you want to continue growing both as an individual and as a professional; and second, the field of events is a small tight-knit community where networking is the name of the game.

How did you get your start in the events industry? I was convinced to manage an event project for my Alma Mater and somehow came out unscathed a few months later. While it did take me some time and I took many detours along the way, I’ve finally let myself accept that yes, the incredibly hectic, mad, and lively world of events is where I’m meant to be.

My biggest event industry pet peeve is: How long email communication can take, specially when a 30-second phone call is faster and more productive.

“No such thing as TMI”

One thing that would really surprise people to learn about me is: I’ve only lived in the U.S. for 15 years and (sadly) don’t know many of the pop culture references from the 80’s and 90’s.

You can only keep 2 albums in your entire music collection -those albums would be: Macklemore & Ryan Lewis- The Heist // Muse- The 2nd Law

10yr old me thought I’d grow up to be: A lawyer; I was a headstrong 10 year old.

Text or phone call? Text please.

Android or iPhone? I’ve never even owned an iPhone. Android all the way.

Toilet paper roll – Over or under? It’s been scientifically proven that over is the most efficient way– especially when cats are involved.

Connect with Merlin:

Email

Telephone: (646) 598-8994

Twitter

Instagram

Website: www.MerlinPina-Sturges.com