The Miller Tanner Associates’ (MTA) difference is our people. That’s why we want to introduce you to our team of superstars that brings our corporate meetings and events to life for our customers.
Today we introduce you to Global Experience Designer – Events Tricia Barbero. Tricia’s diverse experience in both corporate event planning and travel has equipped her with a unique set of skills that she brings to her role at MTA and extends to our customers.
Meet Tricia Barbero, Global Experience Designer – Events
Strengths (based on CliftonStrengths): Restorative, Learner, Strategic, Arranger, Responsibility
Languages spoken: I grew up speaking Spanish with my Abuelita (Grandmother) but over time I spoke less Spanish to teach her English.
Tell us about your current role with MTA? What are your primary responsibilities?
I’m a global experience designer – events. My role involves assisting our clients with all aspects of planning a successful meeting from invites, transportation, rooming, and food & beverage.
What did you do before joining MTA?
I knew I wanted to be a corporate event planner, so I had my start with wedding & private events. I also knew I needed a travel background, so I was a travel agent and exclusively worked with a luxury cruise line before becoming a full-time contractor working in the events industry before joining MTA.
What’s the best part of your job?
Being face-to-face with customers and seeing how their events come together is the best part of my job.
What’s been your favorite event destination as an event planning professional?
I haven’t had a favorite destination yet, but one of my favorite venues was a unique venue in Phoenix that was a replica of a popular location in Sedona with beautiful Spanish architecture.
What’s been your most memorable event to date and why?
I don’t have a specific memorable event, it’s more memorable moments for me.
What makes Miller Tanner Associates stand out as a meeting planning company? What’s your favorite aspect of MTA?
MTA gets it, understanding the ever-changing way the world is, especially with technology and the people. When times change, MTA adapts and helps others along the way.
Do you have a few great travel tips that you could share?
Pre-Travel: packing cubes! I admit that I tend to over-pack; packing cubes have helped me pack less and have kept me organized. I always have a foldable duffle bag that I keep in my suitcase just in case.
While I was a travel agent, my top travel tips relate to money:
- Check if your credit card has foreign transaction fees & if a PIN is needed.
- When paying with a credit card or using an ATM do not select “convert to USD”; you will have a fee plus that fee will include, in most cases, a higher exchange rate.
- This one is weirdly important for those who rarely travel overseas – do carry local currency, as most public places have fees/attendants for restrooms for non-customers.
What’s the one must-have for every event? Coffee – bonus if it is iced coffee!
What do you do for fun?
I love taking my dogs, Gracie & Luca, on walks to different parks in my new town, spending time with friends & family, and going to live events like concerts & sporting events.
You currently reside in? What do you enjoy most about living there? Any favorite spots that you would recommend to tourists?
I grew up in Southern California in Simi Valley but am currently in Arizona. I love that Arizona has become a little melting pot with Snowbirds (who come from cold states like Washington, Illinois, and Montana between Oct-May) & spring training (MLB/Baseball) bringing with them their local restaurants & fast-food chains. My top 3 East Valley breakfast spots: Eggstasy, Henhouse Café, and Butters. Dinner in both Old Town Scottsdale or Downtown Gilbert have great options.
Why do you think that the MTA Workshops are important?
Connecting with our peers is a great way to grow and learn more about our team and company.
To learn more about the MTA Team, visit www.millertanner.com.
