Behind the Scenes with Event Planner Allison Adise

A Brief Background

To kick off the discussion, it’s important to understand the scope of our interviewee's responsibilities. Her experience in this field provides valuable insights into what goes in to working at an event production company like NEC.

Diving In: The Experience of Event Planning

This case study takes a closer look at Allison’s experiences as an event planner, her approach to navigating the fast-paced world of live events, and the lessons she has learned throughout her career. Whether you’re considering a career in event planning or are simply curious about what it takes to succeed in the industry, this interview offers valuable insights into the hard work and creativity that fuel one of the most dynamic professions out there.

Q: Can you share a memorable event you coordinated? What made it stand out?

A: "One of the most memorable events I worked on was a Willy Wonka-themed Bat Mitzvah. The entire space was completely transformed into a whimsical chocolate factory, with every detail designed to immerse guests in the experience. We incorporated live conveyor belts stocked with candy for guests to grab at their leisure and had costumed character dancers interacting throughout the night. One of the standout features was a custom-built ‘gravity booth’—a photo op designed with a tilted room, where the final image made it look like guests were floating in midair. It was an incredibly creative and immersive event, and it’s still one I look back on fondly."

Q: Describe a recent challenge you faced in your role as an event planner and how you overcame it. What lessons did you learn?

A: "One of the biggest challenges in my role is balancing multiple responsibilities while ensuring everything runs smoothly. In such a fast-paced environment, I’ve learned the importance of patience—both with myself and my team. Everyone is constantly juggling projects, and while things may take a little extra time, the dedication and attention to detail my team puts into their work always make it worth it in the end. This experience has reinforced the value of trust, communication, and allowing space for quality execution."

Q: What’s a current trend in live events that excites you? How is it changing the industry?

A: "One of the most exciting trends in live events right now is the surge in personalization. While customization has long been a staple of brand activations and corporate events, it has recently become a major focus for private celebrations like weddings and mitzvahs. Couples are incorporating fabricated seating charts that tell their story, while mitzvahs are embracing fully immersive elements like custom photo op enclosures, wrapped arcade games, and personalized lounge furniture. This shift is transforming events into truly unique experiences, where every detail reflects the host’s personality and vision."

Q: As an event planner, what’s the first thing you do when preparing for an event, and what’s the last thing you check before it starts?

A: The first step in preparing for an event is making sure I fully understand the client’s vision and goals. From there, I ensure the team has all the details they need to execute the plan seamlessly. The last thing I check before the event starts is that every element is in place and fully tested—whether it’s lighting, sound, or setup—so that when doors open, everything runs flawlessly.

Q: How does your department collaborate with other teams, and why is that collaboration important in event planning?

A: Collaboration between departments is essential to ensuring a seamless event. From coordinating logistics with production teams to aligning with designers, talent, and vendors, every element needs to work in sync. Clear communication and teamwork help anticipate challenges, streamline execution, and create a cohesive experience for the client and their guests. When everyone is on the same page, the event runs smoothly from start to finish.

Tips for Future Event Planners

Q: Describe a “behind-the-scenes” moment that most people don’t see but is crucial to pulling off a successful event.

A: One of the most crucial behind-the-scenes moments happens in the final hours leading up to an event. While guests see a polished, seamless experience, what they don’t see is the team double-checking every detail—adjusting lighting and sound levels, ensuring vendors are in position, and making last-minute tweaks to layouts and décor. There’s a constant flow of communication between staff, troubleshooting anything unexpected and making sure everything runs according to plan. It’s a high-energy, fast-paced process, but when the doors open and everything comes together flawlessly, it makes all the behind-the-scenes work worth it.

Q: What advice would you give to someone new in your field?

A: "My biggest advice is to always be available—for both your clients and your team. Strong communication is key to ensuring every detail is executed seamlessly. Making the client feel valued and heard throughout the entire process not only builds trust but also enhances their overall experience. A successful event isn’t just about logistics; it’s about the relationships you build along the way."

Concluding Thoughts

Allison Adise's experiences highlight the dedication, creativity, and meticulous planning required to execute seamless and memorable events. Her ability to navigate complex logistics while maintaining open communication with clients exemplifies the expertise needed in the event planning industry. By sharing her insights, Allison provides a valuable glimpse into the world of professional event planning, demonstrating the importance of detailed coordination and personalized touches.

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