People & Profiles

Industry Profile: Keri Miller
2026/07/20

The events industry is not for the faint of heart – just ask Keri Miller, chief creative strategist and partner at e=mc² events based in Calgary. “Beyond global market volatility, we are increasingly navigating pricing challenges tied to exclusive venue-vendor partnerships. This is creating significant pricing hurdles that increasingly threaten the viability of events, including long-standing ones,” she says. “No standardized pricing and a lack of transparency has always been a challenge and continues to be.” But those who…
The Power of Mentorship in Events
2026/06/25

When I founded my event business in 1988, there were only five event planning companies in Vancouver, British Columbia. Fast forward to today, and I recently heard there are more than 700. It seems everyone is an event planner these days — caterers, florists, DJs, audiovisual companies, and countless others. At least, that’s what they claim. But are they really? When I started Bright Ideas Event Agency, I was completely on my own. I had no formal training, no…
Industry Profile: Carly Silberstein
2026/06/11

Like many people in the events industry, Cielle & Co CEO and founder Carly Silberstein fell into the profession and quickly discovered a passion for it. “I didn’t grow up knowing event management was a career path, which is one of the challenges we face as an industry. What drew me in was the combination of creativity, strategy, problem-solving, and people. I quickly realized events sit at the intersection of business, marketing, communications, hospitality, technology, and human connection,” says…
Chef Profile: Toben Kochman, Toben Food By Design
2026/03/12

Food has always been a central focus for Toben Kochman, chief culinary director and founder of Toben Food by Design in Toronto. “I started working in professional kitchens at the age of 18, just as a fun job as I was always interested in food and grew up in a family where food was a big focal point to family gatherings,” he says. Kochman received his culinary training at the Cordon Bleu in Paris, France, after which he worked…
Promoting the Diverse Careers in Events
2026/02/02

The business events industry is experiencing renewed momentum. Organizations are once again investing in live experiences to drive connection, learning, culture, and economic impact. Business events continue to play a meaningful role in tourism, hospitality, and local economies. At the same time, industry research points to a persistent labour shortage. Post-pandemic attrition, retirements, and the pace of recovery have created workforce gaps across planning, production, sales, and operations. Together, these realities present both opportunity and responsibility. If demand continues…
Industry Profile: Tim Oldfield
2025/11/12

For Tim Oldfield, event management is about making a difference: creating memorable moments, inspiring connections and helping people achieve their goals. “I find real satisfaction in seeing an event come together and knowing it made a lasting impact. Building strong relationships with clients, guests and my team is central to my approach,” says Oldfield, who joined Niagara Falls Convention Centre (NFCC) as president and general manager this past April. Oldfield says he was drawn to the NFCC by its…
Chef Profile: Karen O’Connor, Daniel et Daniel
2025/07/09

Chef Karen O’Connor has more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, known for creating unique and memorable dishes for clients. Her work emphasizes creativity, attention to detail, and a passion for delivering exceptional culinary experiences. Her career spans working in both catering and restaurants including well known establishments such as Bistro 990, The Rosewater Supper Club, Griffens and The Other Café. She joined Daniel et Daniel Catering in 1998. As executive chef, O’Connor leads Daniel et…
Industry Profile: Kathy Haley
2025/03/04

Kathy Haley is a dynamic and respected leader with more than 35 years of experience in customer experience and large-scale operations. Throughout her career, she has had opportunities to champion and collaborate on legacy projects – projects that have shaped the fabric of cities and regions in Canada and the US. When presented with the opportunity to join the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC), she was excited to return to Toronto (her home town) to lead the centre. Haley…
Industry Profile: Julia O’Grady
2024/10/03

Since founding ITM Events in 2010, Julia O’Grady has not looked back. Her journey into the event industry began as a leap of faith when she realized event planning was not just a passion but a calling. “At the time, I was organizing events for family, friends, and charity organizations I volunteered with. It was something that genuinely excited me and came naturally,” she recalls. Growing her company and team, creating unforgettable events as well as being recognized with…
Chef Q&A: Christophe Luzeux, Halifax Convention Centre
2024/09/20

When it comes to meeting and event planning, chef Christophe Luzeux believes that understanding and fulfilling the client’s needs is important, especially when developing a menu tailored to their specific event. “Our goal is to create a unique culinary experience that not only meets but exceeds their expectations,” says Luzeux. “A key element of our culinary philosophy is a strong commitment to using local ingredients. My team and I are passionate about supporting local farmers and suppliers, and we…

Venue & Supplier Profiles