Jen Sulak, Wedding Photographer, Artist and Inspirational Speaker, Pink Light Images/Weirdo Weddings
Jen is a passionate artist and photographer that welcomes the weird, celebrates imagination, and creates spaces to belong. Jen has a passion to encourage others in their craft and voice and bring a spirit of love and creativity wherever and whenever possible! She is the Lead Wedding Photographer for Weirdo Weddings (as well as Pink Light Weddings), Conceptual Portrait artist with Pink Light Images and an Inspirational Speaker as Pink Hair Jen. Jen is also a Podcast Host with "Tattoos and Toddlers Podcast" a look at running businesses and having young children with an integration of business and family discussions and fun tattoo stories!
Fast Chat: Awkward Networking - Making Relationships Count!
10:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 14
This 30-minute interactive fast chat is about challenging others to work through the awkward moments of networking! Often thought of as a “natural” skill, many of us struggle every day to make connection, lasting business relationships and need to be reminded that we are all a little awkward some days. Have a real-time discussion on keys to overcome some anxieties, tips to be open for that next relationship and being a voice to tell your story while also connecting with others' stories. Interaction HIGHLY encouraged!
Joel Olandesca, CEO & Co-Founder, SOS Charging Solutions & Simpl.AR
Joel is the creator and co-founder of SOS Charging Solutions and Simpl.AR. Joel's background includes extensive experience in mobile technology, marketing, and finances. He is a passionate advocate for the events industry and the impact it has on the global economy and culture. He served as the President of the International Live Events Association - Calgary Chapter for the 2018/2019 chapter year and was Chair for ILEA Canada for the 2021/2022 chapter year. Being involved and volunteering directly in the industry allows him to continue on his path as an evolving event professional.
In addition to being an entrepreneur, innovator, and educator, he is also a firm believer in giving back to others. Joel is an avid volunteer who loves to support causes that are close to his heart.
Sébastien David, President, Sénik The Event Agency
As a 30-year expert, Sébastien David started his career in the early 1990s and quickly elevated as one of the key personalities in the Canadian Event Business. With Senik Events, the company he co-launched 20 years ago, he is producing some of the most important corporate events in Canada. He heads a team of 17 event producers that successfully deliver more than 100 events per year across the world. Through the years, he has built a significant network of trustworthy collaborators in Canada and the United States that graced the success of the events Senik produced. This success has propelled him into a speaker at many important conferences of the Events Industry such as the The Special Event and Canadian Special Event. His passion, dynamism, energy, and creativity have contributed to truly authentic long-lasting relationships with clients.
Jonathan Jow, Director of Strategy, BoothEasy Photo Booth Company
Jonathan Jow is a dedicated professional who has been blessed to work with some amazing companies in the marketing and technology space for over 20 years, along with more than 15 years of involvement in the events industry. Prior to joining the events industry, Jonathan worked in technology consulting as well as investment banking. With a focus on creativity and a passion for bringing people together, Jonathan has had the privilege of contributing to integrated marketing & event marketing campaigns that have touched millions of people and driven hundreds of millions of dollars of revenue. Over the years, Jonathan has had the opportunity to work with various brands, aiding them in their growth through customer-centric experiences that aimed to leave a positive impact. Even amidst challenging times like the pandemic, he strived to adapt and find innovative ways to connect with audiences, ensuring memorable experiences that resonated with customers.
Within the events industry, Jonathan deeply appreciates the art of crafting unforgettable experiences that cater to different audiences. Whether organizing large-scale corporate gatherings or intimate brand activations, he has always sought to bring a touch of creativity, innovation, and strategic thinking to each occasion. Apart from his professional endeavors, Jonathan takes pleasure in mentoring and supporting fellow professionals in their journeys. Through contributions to industry publications, he seeks to share valuable insights and trends, hoping to inspire growth and progress within the marketing and events community.
Cindy Lo, CEO & Chief Event Strategist, RED VELVET
When Cindy Y. Lo started RED VELVET 21 years ago, she did so with the mission to Outplan, Outplay and Outparty! RED VELVET is an international award-winning experiential agency that creates compelling human connections through design and collaboration for brands on the cusp of disruption. Prior to surviving the COVID pandemic, Cindy authored the book Behind the Red Velvet Curtain that openly shares how she built the company with just $8000 and no formal hospitality experience. Connect with RED VELVET on all the major social media channels (@REDVELVETEVENTS) to see behind the scenes of what event life is like at RED VELVET. Cindy calls Austin, Texas home with her husband of 19 years, their 2 high schoolers, and Darwin, their Frenchie.
Talking Tech: Guest Experience, Trends, and AI
10:30 a.m. Thursday, February 15
Tap into the knowledge and experience of leading event technology experts and hear about the latest trends in the industry. From the latest in AV, planning and production, to what's up and coming for experiential. Attendees will also gain insight into how AI can transform the overall guest experience and elevate event planning and management.
You can see Jen, Joel, Sébastien, Jonathan, and Cindy LIVE at Catersource + The Special Event in Austin from Feb 12-15.
