Pat

I feel awkward writing about myself in third person, as though there needs to be a wall of formality between you (as a potential client) and me (as an event professional). I do what I do because I love helping people celebrate life-cycle events and I have a passion for event design. So, I’m just going to tell you about myself as though you’re right here interviewing me.

By birth, I’m a product of the South, born in Virginia and raised in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Florida—at the same time. Because of my father’s work, I changed schools three times a year from kindergarten through ninth grade…not the most stable life for a child, but I learned to adapt and make the best of situations which is part and parcel of event production and coordination.

My education in psychology at Rutgers University coincided with raising my children—nothing will teach you organization and time-management as well as that experience. After working in finance and publishing for a few years I went to work at Philadelphia's Womens Way (WW), the fundraising arm of a group of agencies offering services to women and children. My position there gave me the opportunity to hone my skills in many areas. Along with other responsibilities, I planned and coordinated meetings, programs, and events—all on budgets and for high-profile audiences.

When I decided to open my own business, it seemed natural to start with weddings, so I began to research and study all the elements that come together to produce a remarkable wedding. I entered the Professional Development Program of the Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC) and earned the designation Professional Bridal Consultant from ABC in 2003. I further trained under respected, veteran event consultant Linnyette Richardson-Hall, and I’ve been very fortunate to enjoy the ongoing mentorship of premier Philadelphia wedding designer, Mark Kingsdorf.

I'm very excited that the company is now doing all kinds of events, from personal life-cycle events to community fundraisers to small business meetings and events.  I'm even more excited to be working with Lynne, a true kindred spirit and someone who will bring added energy and creativity to Distinctively You Events.

One of my goals is to continue to have a fresh, trend-setting eye for event design. To accomplish that, I continue to research and study to keep up with innovations and trends in the events and design industries. I attend at least one educational conference a year and network with fellow events professionals on a regular basis to be sure that I can serve you in the best possible ways. I am one of the Executive Directors and founding members of the Association of Professional Event Designers (APED), as well as a member of the International Special Events Society, the Chamber of Commerce of Southern New Jersey and NJ Event Pro Net.

Now that you know something about me, I’d like to know about you and how Lynne and I may help you celebrate an important time in your life.

Warm regards,