Miller Tanner Associates Team, Author at Miller Tanner Associates

Blog

Meet MTA: Lakin Rupiper, Accounts Payable Manager

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 Accounts Payable Manager Lakin Rupiper. With extensive experience across diverse industries including hospitality, healthcare, and business networking, Lakin brings a wealth of expertise to her role.

Meet Lakin Rupiper, Accounts Payable Manager

Strengths (based on CliftonStrengths): Woo, Activator, Positivity, Empathy, Communication

Tell us about your current role with MTA. What are your primary responsibilities?

I am the Accounts Payable Manager. My primary responsibilities are paying our vendor invoices, supporting finance with hotel bill reconciliations and payments, and reviewing and paying employee reimbursements.

What did you do before joining MTA?

My career has primarily been in accounting-related roles. I have worked in various industries including title insurance, hospitality, medical, business networking, and recruiting. My first job in Nashville was with the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce which was a lot of fun and gave me a little bit of a sneak peek into event coordination (on a much smaller scale)!

Lakin along with Finance Team members and CEO Marnie Battistini volunteering at Thistle Farms in Nashville, TN

What do you feel are the most fulfilling aspects of your job?

The most fulfilling aspect of my job is when I am able to help improve a process for the greater good of the team/company. I have always been flexible to change, and value efficiency. When I can make improvements that help my team, it feels so rewarding!

What are some ways that the Finance Team takes the burden off of the customer when planning an event?

Finance plays a critical role by supporting our Global Experiences Team. Paying vendors and hotels in a timely, efficient manner allows our Global Experiences Team to focus on the customers’ needs and build relationships that will greatly impact the success of an event. Great communication internally will allow for the customer to focus on the event content and less on the clerical tasks & planning!

Why do you think that the MTA Workshops are important? What do you get most from this time together?

This July will be my first workshop! I have heard great things about this time shared together and the connections made. I cannot wait to meet the MTA family!

What do you do for fun?

I fully embrace being a mom to my two little girls! My favorite things to do are to take them to the zoo, farmers markets, or to local farms to play and see animals. My husband and I love attending concerts (that’s how we met). When I am having “me time” I like to go to brunch with my friends and occasionally line dancing! I love country music!

Where do you live and what do you love most about your state/city? Any must-see tourist spots?

I moved to Nashville, TN four years ago! I am originally from Phoenix, Arizona so the best parts about living in Nashville are the seasonal changes and greenery! In Phoenix, it’s just hot and hotter! My family loves living in TN and has the best time exploring and seeing new places. My favorite recommendation to people visiting is Arrington Vineyards. It’s such a beautiful property. The wine is tasty and the winery is also family-friendly! My girls love dancing to the live music they have on the weekends.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I am grateful to be a part of MTA. When reflecting on my experience since working here, the word CARE always comes to mind. Everyone I have interacted with has embodied supportive, compassionate, and kind communication and assistance. It is clear that the culture of MTA prioritizes flexibility and the well-being of our colleagues and that means so much to me!

To learn more about the MTA Team, visit www.millertanner.com.

Blog

What is Event Branding & Why is it Important?

Event branding is creating a unique identity for your upcoming event. While it may seem time-consuming and overwhelming at first, the ROI of event branding efforts is impressive. This approach allows you to attract the right audience and capitalize on its participation in the future.

The goal is to make your event stand out from the very competitive crowd and help your audience dive into your ideas. Branding creates memories that boost your business authority and help with further marketing efforts.

Implementing branding into event planning can help you achieve the desired business goals.

The Purpose of Event Branding

Event branding can have several purposes. They depend on the type of the event and your business goals. Some of these purposes are:

Competitiveness: A distinct identity can help your event stand out from the crowd and stay in the audience’s memory for a long time.
Lead Generation: An event with strong branding can attract the right audience, which is likely to begin its journey down the sales funnel on the spot.
Credibility: Strong event branding can help attract sponsors and media coverage.

Proper event branding doesn’t just help you achieve the goals of the current event but also sets the stage for future happenings. The rule of thumb is to align the event branding with your company branding efforts but avoid making them identical.

Key Elements of Event Branding

Event branding is similar to product branding. If you think about your event as your product or service, event branding ideas will come more easily. Here are a few things to consider:

Event Name and Theme

Your event’s name and overall theme should reflect the event’s purpose and appeal to the target audience. A compelling name is easy to remember and recognize in the future.

Visual Identity

This includes the logo, color scheme, typography, and design elements used across all event materials. Consistency in visuals reinforces the brand identity.

Event Messaging and Tone

The language and communication style you use when promoting the event or creating presentations should be consistent. Ideally, you should come up with an event slogan that appears throughout all branding materials for the event.

Marketing

A strong promotional strategy includes social media, email campaigns, and paid advertising. It allows you to reach the right people before and after the event. Collected audience data from the event can help you follow up and create personalized offers in the future.

On-Site Experience

From signage and stage design to branded giveaways, the event space should immerse attendees in your brand identity. Consider investing in creative design and branded event products that the audience can take home after the event.

Why Is Event Branding Important?

A well-executed branding strategy can help you build trust and engagement. Strong branding doesn’t just make your event memorable. It helps attendees associate it with a meaningful and valuable experience. This increases the likelihood of the audience returning for future events and recommending them to others.

Consistent branding across all touchpoints reinforces your company’s authority in its industry. A professionally branded event reflects value and helps strengthen your relationships with sponsors and partners.

In the long run, a well-branded event enhances your organization’s reputation and contributes to its success.

Contact Miller Tanner Associates to Learn More About Event Branding Today

Event branding is rarely an optional approach. It’s a must-do for achieving both event and business goals. If you want to maximize your event’s ROI, consider investing in its branding.

At Miller Tanner Associates, we have years of experience in event planning and branding. Contact us today to discuss your event branding needs today.

Blog

Team Building Events to Boost Morale

Interactive activities and team-building exercises foster stronger connections at work. With simple exercises, you can increase trust between teams and departments, help strengthen interpersonal relationships, and boost your reputation as an employer with a good company culture. Whether you’re hosting a corporate event or you want to have team-building events scheduled frequently during the workday, having a collection of different team-building experiences and team-building outings to choose from makes it easier to implement these sessions.

Collaborative Workshops: Building Skills Together

Workshops are excellent opportunities to help your employees gain access to new skills and knowledge sets. While solo learning opportunities can provide a lot of value, collaborative workshops are even better. They give your employees the following benefits:

Learning sessions during the workday, which create a better work-life balance
Time to talk with coworkers, especially coworkers they may not regularly interact with, which forms better networks and creates stronger connections
Opportunities to ask questions, clarify information, and come to a common understanding that prevents potential miscommunication later

All of these benefits create downstream wins for both employees and the company as a whole.

Icebreaker Activities: Breaking Down Barriers

Many work environments suffer from silos. Some silos are caused by work in virtual environments, where parties simply don’t interact beyond emails. Other silos are traditional barriers between departments that have adversarial relationships. Other barriers that may be in your workforce include feelings of isolation for new hires. Icebreaker activities can go a long way in breaking down these barriers.

First, team-building experiences that break the ice foster interaction outside strict work-related topics. People can learn about each other’s hobbies, interests, and personalities. Shared experiences and preferences can foster work friendships and make people in different departments more approachable. As a result, employees may feel more comfortable giving feedback, asking questions, and approaching different stakeholders. When employees feel more connected, they stay with the company longer and can get more done than employees who feel isolated and unsupported.

Charity Events: Unified Purpose, Stronger Bonds

Team-bonding events around charitable activities are a great way to achieve many different team-building and company-wide goals. They create a sense of unified purpose that participants can feel good about, whether it’s volunteering together at a local non-profit, participating in a charitable run, or donating blood. Participants can share a sense of pride and fulfillment, and they’ll remember which coworkers they worked with.

Charity events also provide a work-adjacent context for interacting and building relationships without the frustrations and pressures of work. When team-building events are separated from deadlines, ongoing problems, and stressful projects, people can get to know each other without trying to solve a problem or get something off their plate.

Charity team-building events also provide direct benefits for the organization. You can associate your brand with local non-profits or niche projects that support your values and company mission. Organizing these charity-related team-building outings during the workday also strengthens your reputation as an employer who provides opportunities without cutting into your team’s personal time.

Contact Miller Tanner Associates to Learn More About Team-Building Events to Help Boost Morale

Team-building events make your company stronger and give your employees more fulfillment. Whether you have icebreakers at the start of monthly meetings, interactive workshops during quarterly corporate events, or a big annual charity outing, you can bring your teams together. Miller Tanner Associates is here to help. Contact us today about how our team can organize corporate team-building events for your company.

Blog

What is a Breakout Session?

Interactive learning events lead to more information retention, stronger relationships, and better outcomes. Miller Tanner has more than 27 years of experience creating and managing corporate events, and we know that events get better when you give participants time to converse, engage, and work in small groups. One of the most important tools you can use is breakout sessions. Learn more about how they work, how to organize them, and how to make your next breakout sessions even better.

Importance of Breakout Sessions

What is a breakout session? When you have a large event of hundreds of attendees, meaningful whole-group discussion is impossible. Breakout sessions break up the attendees into much smaller pools of participants who can talk and collaborate. Depending on the nature of the specific event session, all the groups might split apart to discuss the same materials or complete the same exercises; alternatively, the breakout groups may conduct different exercises based on their job role or area of interest.

Breakout sessions are important because they facilitate more active learning and participation among every conference attendee. Learners and participants end the session with a much deeper understanding of the material, and they form more meaningful connections with people in their breakout group. Some of the most important benefits that breakout sessions can provide are:

They facilitate a more in-depth exploration of a topic.
There is greater engagement.
The increased interaction enhances connections and networking.
Participants have an opportunity to ask questions and clear up misunderstandings.
You can work peer learning into events easily.

Planning a Breakout Session

What is a breakout session plan, and how do you make one? As you’re planning larger seminars and sessions, outline what the breakout sessions should look like. Plan specific breakout session ideas such as:

How many people will be in each group (and how to decide who will be in each group)
The main activity for each group, as well as each group member’s role in the activity
What participants should “walk away” with
If the groups will share their findings with the group as a whole
How long the sessions will be

These specifics will give you the framework you need to start planning the resources and structure of the breakout session. The requirements will change slightly based on whether you have a virtual or in-person event, but the simple fundamentals work well in virtual, hybrid, and face-to-face events. Some quick virtual breakout session ideas could include group conversations, or whiteboarding. In-person conference breakout session ideas could include group interviews, brainstorming ideas to share with the wider group, and interacting with physical demos or devices being launched in the industry.

Creating an Inclusive Environment

No matter what breakout activity you select, the most important hallmark of a successful breakout session is inclusivity. Everyone should feel equally able to share ideas, ask questions, and give their opinions. This should include supporting accessibility, such as by making sure breakout rooms are easier to reach or that online resources are built with visual and audio supports. You might also have group facilitators play a role in breakout sessions so that every participant has an opportunity to speak.

Contact Miller Tanner Associates to Learn More About a Breakout Session

Breakout sessions are a simple and deeply useful tool for learning, networking, and engagement as they help everyone create a successful event together. But guaranteeing that your breakout sessions run smoothly takes practice. At Miller Tanner Associates, we’re here to help you plan, organize, and run your next industry conference. Contact us today to learn more about strategies like breakout sessions or about our event services.

Blog

Event Gamification Ideas for Better Engagement

Engaging audiences at corporate functions can be challenging due to the serious atmosphere and the business focus of the whole endeavor, but event gamification offers a dynamic solution for overall event engagement and success. Turning activities into a game makes events more interactive, interesting, and engaging, making both in-person and virtual meetings much more effective.

At Miller Tanner Associates, we specialize in content engagement strategies that transform standard events into immersive, interactive experiences. By incorporating event gamification, organizations can boost participation, enhance learning retention, and make their messages more memorable.

What Does Event Gamification Mean?

Event gamification is about adding game-like features to events to boost participation and interaction. Whether in-person or online, this strategy turns attendees from passive listeners into active participants, making the event more engaging and memorable for all involved.

In physical settings, gamification might involve team challenges or interactive workshops that promote collaboration and networking. For virtual events, gamification is even more essential to overcome the lack of physical presence. It can keep participants engaged through digital platforms, ensuring they stay interested and involved.

The goal of event gamification is to create an immersive experience that encourages active participation. This makes the event more successful, helping attendees remember the key messages and objectives for much longer than they might otherwise.

Gamification Ideas for Virtual Events

Digital platforms have made virtual event gamification a breeze, and keeping attendees engaged has never been easier because of that. While virtual events can sometimes lack a personal touch, gamification can transform them into lively, interactive experiences that draw participants in. Try some of these ideas to add some extra fun to your next event:

Interactive Quizzes and Polls

knowledge and share opinions in real time. Use quizzes to reinforce key points or polls to gauge audience sentiment on various topics.

Virtual meeting platforms offer built-in tools for these activities, making integration seamless. At Miller Tanner Associates, we leverage interactive engagement strategies to ensure your audience remains actively involved.

Leaderboards and Points Systems

A leaderboard introduces a competitive element, motivating attendees to participate more actively. By awarding points for completing tasks, answering questions, or engaging in discussions, you can drive meaningful interaction. Displaying a real-time leaderboard keeps motivation high, especially when incentives are offered for top performers.

Miller Tanner Associates can help implement these systems seamlessly, ensuring fairness and maximum impact.

Virtual Scavenger Hunts

Virtual scavenger hunts encourage attendees to explore event content in an engaging way. Tasks might include:

Finding specific information within the platform
Solving event-related puzzles
Completing interactive challenges

Scavenger hunts not only make sessions fun but also reinforce key takeaways. At Miller Tanner Associates, we design custom content engagement strategies to ensure your audience interacts deeply with your event material.

Meeting Gamification Ideas

Gamification isn’t just for large events; it can also enhance smaller meetings, boosting engagement and productivity. If you’re looking for ways to improve your next meeting, try some of these ideas:

Icebreaker Games

Icebreaker games can set a positive tone at the start of a meeting, helping participants feel more at ease and fostering better communication. Simple games can be easily adapted to fit the meeting context, creating a relaxed environment that encourages active participation and comradery.

Achievement Badges

Achievement badges recognize and reward contributions during meetings, serving as a powerful motivator. Award badges for achievements like offering valuable insights or completing tasks ahead of deadlines. It’s almost startling how effective fostering a culture of recognition and appreciation can be for motivating people. Use digital platforms that allow easy distribution and display of badges to enhance their impact.

Try Gamifying Your Next Event

At Miller Tanner Associates, we understand the power of engagement in creating memorable and impactful events. By gamifying your events, you can transform passive attendees into active participants, boosting both enjoyment and knowledge retention. Our team specializes in incorporating gamification strategies that reinforce your key messages and objectives, ensuring your event leaves a lasting impact.

For expert guidance on integrating gamification and enhancing content engagement, reach out to Miller Tanner Associates. We’ll help you design a customized solution that elevates your event experience. Contact us today to get started.

Image Source: Anton Gvozdikov/Shutterstock

Blog

Top Incentive Travel Destinations

Incentive travel is a dynamic way to boost employee motivation and performance. Companies looking to enhance their sales incentive trips are exploring top destinations and experiences to reward their teams and energize their workforce. Choosing the right destination for an incentive trip can transform it into an unforgettable experience.

Why Incentive Travel is a Powerful Motivator

Incentive travel is a strategic approach to boosting employee engagement and productivity. By organizing sales incentive trips, companies can cultivate a sense of appreciation and loyalty among their teams. When employees feel valued, they are more motivated and likely to excel, which can lead to better business results.

One standout advantage of incentive travel is the opportunity it provides for unique and memorable experiences. Unlike cash bonuses, these trips offer employees a chance to immerse themselves in new cultures, enjoy top-tier accommodations, and partake in exclusive activities. This enhances job satisfaction and deepens their connection to the company.

Choosing the right destination can further elevate the impact of an incentive trip. Unique locations reward, inspire, and rejuvenate employees. Returning from these trips, employees often bring back renewed enthusiasm and creativity, which can boost productivity and innovation at work.

Top Incentive Travel Destinations Worldwide

Selecting the perfect destination for an incentive trip requires a meticulous and thoughtful approach; however, when executed well, it can turn into an unforgettable experience. Here are just a few top spots around the globe that offer a mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation.

#1 Destination: Paris, France

Paris is a perennial favorite for incentive travel, celebrated for its cultural richness and historical landmarks. Teams can marvel at the Eiffel Tower, wander through the Louvre, and savor exquisite French cuisine. The city’s charming streets and vibrant art scene create an inspiring setting for team-building and corporate events, ensuring memorable experiences.

#2 Destination: Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo’s blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity makes it an intriguing destination. Visitors can partake in tea ceremonies, witness sumo wrestling, or explore the lively Shibuya district. The city’s technological marvels and historic sites like Asakusa’s temples offer dynamic opportunities for team bonding and learning.

#3 Destination: Iceland

Iceland stands out as a breathtaking destination for incentive travel, offering dramatic landscapes, adventurous activities, and exclusive experiences. Teams can explore glaciers, relax in geothermal hot springs, or witness the Northern Lights for an unforgettable journey.

A prime example of Iceland’s impact as an incentive travel destination is the Icelandic Incentive Trip organized by Miller Tanner Associates. This trip offered participants unique experiences such as glacier trekking and private lagoon access, reinforcing the value of corporate incentive programs. With its mix of adventure and relaxation, Iceland provides an inspiring backdrop for team-building and rejuvenation.

#4 Destination: Sydney, Australia

Sydney’s bustling city life and iconic sites, such as the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, make it a standout choice. The city offers team-building activities like harbor cruises and surfing at Bondi Beach. Its diverse culinary scene and vibrant cultural events provide ample chances for teams to connect and celebrate.

#5 Destination: Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires enchants with its lively atmosphere and cultural depth. Teams can enjoy the passion of tango shows and explore historic neighborhoods like San Telmo. Culinary tours and a vibrant nightlife offer plenty of opportunities for bonding, making Buenos Aires a compelling choice for an incentive trip.

Choosing the Best Incentive Travel Destination for Your Team

Picking the right spot for a corporate incentive trip can make all the difference. Start by looking at your budget to get the most out of your investment without cutting corners on quality.

Next, think about how easy it is to get there. A destination with good travel connections can save time and reduce stress for everyone involved.

Don’t forget to check the best time to visit. Traveling during the off-season can mean lower costs and fewer crowds, while peak times might offer a livelier atmosphere. By weighing these factors, you can choose a destination that leaves a lasting impression on your team.

Planning Your Next Corporate Trip

When planning the best corporate incentive trips, you should align the destination with your company’s goals and your team’s preferences. This approach ensures the experience is impactful and long-lasting.

Expert advice can be a game-changer. Miller Tanner Associates provides tailored recognition services to help you design and execute outstanding corporate incentive trips. To explore how we can assist in crafting an exceptional travel experience, visit our contact page at Miller Tanner Associates.

Image Source: Gabriele Maltinti/Shutterstock

Blog

Incentive Trip Focused on Sustainability and Connection

The Event

Our customer needed to plan a President’s Club for their company’s high achievers.

The Challenge

Organize an incentive trip to Anguilla, located north of St. Martin, that would foster connection among attendees and highlight the island’s rich heritage, all while prioritizing sustainability.

The Results

Upon arrival at the historical, seaside Malliouhana Resort, guests were welcomed with in-room, personalized welcome amenities as well as a “sip & shop” gifting experience. To support the island’s sustainability initiatives and marine preservation, each guest received a personalized eco-friendly water bottle, reducing plastic waste on the island.

Guests relished a festive al fresco reception overlooking the Caribbean, with décor inspired by original artwork displayed throughout the resort. MTA’s personalized touches added to the fanfare, including playful “Advice from a Turtle” accouterments, a nod to experiences to come.

One of the event’s most notable highlights was a unique conservation project hosted by the National Trust of Anguilla, an exclusive opportunity for the attendees organized in advance by the MTA Team. Attendees worked alongside island marine specialists to participate in turtle tagging to support local conservation efforts, a rare opportunity offered to visitors.

For individual activities, attendees had options such as a spa experience, a ceviche cooking demonstration, horseback riding, ATV-guided island tours, golfing, and a tour cruising miles of coastline in vintage-inspired, open-air Moke vehicles.

The trip concluded with a spectacular celebration dinner under starlight and chandeliers, with event design inspired by the island’s local artistry—a perfect end to an extraordinary journey.

Our team designed a one-of-a-kind immersive experience that focused on sustainability and connection. The attendee feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Attendees called it their favorite destination and best event to date, thanks to the meticulous planning and attention to detail of the MTA Global Experiences Team.

To learn more about corporate event planning, visit www.millertanner.com.

Blog

Meet MTA: Abby Levitt, Global Experience Designer – Events

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 Abby Levitt. Abby brings her unique expertise in project management and design solutions to her role as an event designer at MTA.

Meet Abby Levitt, Global Experience Designer – Events

Strengths (based on CliftonStrengths): Individualization, Strategic, Communication, Arranger, Woo

Tell us about your current role with MTA? What are your primary responsibilities?

In my role, I guide customers through the planning and preparation for their events. With the help of our incredible team, I keep them informed and lead them through decisions that set their events up to be successful for everyone involved. The final phase of event execution is my version of ending on a high note. The setup with the team, the on-site execution of the event, and the opportunity to meet the customers are what I look forward to the most.

What did you do before joining MTA?

Prior to joining MTA, I worked as a project manager and operational coordinator for a small residential construction firm, overseeing large-scale renovations and new home builds. In that role, I coordinated project schedules, managed budgets, and assisted with design solutions, all while working closely with clients to bring their vision to life.

What’s the best part of your job?

My favorite part of the work we do is being part of a strong team! It takes a great mix of skillsets to scope these projects from start to finish, and each step of the way is as important as the next. Collectively we share the goal of creating smooth and successful experiences for our customers and providing excellent service along the way.

What’s been your most memorable event to date and why?

My first event will always be special! It was the first in-person meeting with so many colleagues, and I gained a ton of perspective from seeing the MTA team in action on-site!

Do you have a few great travel tips that you could share?

Use packing cubes, stay hydrated (always!), eat where the locals eat, and be flexible!

What’s the one must-have for every event? A positive attitude.

What makes Miller Tanner Associates stand out as a meeting planning company?

Two things come to mind. First, the specialized experience of this organization. There’s so much expertise within MTA, and that presents incredible opportunities for someone newer in this particular industry to learn and grow. Coming from a small family-owned business, the established processes and systems that have been built and improved over the years really stand out as a strength.

Second, is the culture. Since day one I’ve felt empowered and supported at pretty much every turn. I’ve been given space to learn and grow, trusted with responsibility, encouraged, and challenged in great ways. It’s clear that MTA cares about its people, and operates in a way that prioritizes them. I’m glad to be a part of it.

You are originally from? You currently reside in? What do you enjoy most about livingthere? Any favorite spots that you would recommend to tourists?

I grew up in Marietta, GA (just outside of Atlanta) and went to school at The University of Georgia. I fell in love with the town and never left Athens after graduating! I enjoy the smaller-town community connections, the walkability of our neighborhood, and the distinct seasons of living in a college town. There are some excellent restaurants in town (unbiased plug for my brother’s restaurants, Seabear and Pretty Boy) and fantastic watering holes (Creature Comforts and The Hidden Gem). Our music scene is robust and a show at The Georgia Theater is an absolute must!

What do you do for fun?

I love a project in my personal life, too! Some might say that I like to stay busy (or can’t stay still). I love DIY projects, finding ways to improve spaces around the house, and finding new outlets to use my creativity. My husband and I are avid gardeners, and we love to spend time in the kitchen. On the weekends, you can find me in the woods with my dog, playing soccer, and enjoying time with friends and family!

To learn more about the MTA Team, visit www.millertanner.com.

Blog

Meet MTA: Yana Antonyuk, Global Experience Manager

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 Manager Yana Antonyuk. With over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Yana brings her talents and extensive operational background to MTA to deliver best-in-class meetings and events to our customers.

Meet Yana Antonyuk, Global Experience Manager

Strengths (based on CliftonStrengths): Strategic, Arranger, Includer, Responsibility, Learner

Languages spoken: I speak English and Russian.

Tell us about your current role with MTA? What are your primary responsibilities?

I’m proud to serve as one of MTA’s global experience managers, where I collaborate with a talented team of event designers dedicated to planning, executing, and bringing our customers’ dream events to life across the globe.

What did you do before joining MTA?

Before joining MTA, I spent two decades (don’t worry, no need to do the math!) in the hotel industry, gaining experience across all operational areas, including housekeeping, front office, and food and beverage. I eventually transitioned into events and sales, where I discovered my true passion for hospitality. Meetings and events hold a special place in my heart — there’s nothing quite like the connection that comes from being in person.

What’s the best part of your job?

The highlight of my job is undoubtedly our incredible MTA team. Every day, I’m inspired by the thoughtfulness, intention, and collaboration each team member brings to their work. I feel truly privileged to be surrounded by such talented and passionate individuals — it motivates me to bring my A-game and makes every day that much more rewarding!

Meetings and events hold a special place in my heart — there’s nothing quite like the connection that comes from being in person.

Do you have a few great travel tips that you could share?

Invest in packing cubes! They help keep you organized, maximize space, and make it a breeze to bring home laundry that’s already packed and ready for washing or dry cleaning.

What’s the one must-have for every event?

Safety pins are a must! I actually carry one inside my clothes every day. You never know when you or someone else might need one and the possibilities are endless!

Yana pictured with MTA Commercial Team members and Global Experiences Team members.

What makes Miller Tanner Associates stand out as a meeting planning company?

MTA stands out as a meeting planning company because of our strong culture and commitment to investing in our people. The word “Associates” is in our name for a reason—without our team members, there would be no magic. In my role, I have the unique opportunity to connect with our team to ensure they’re engaged, connected, and truly passionate about the work they’re doing. This passion easily translates to our customers, who can see the dedication our team has for bringing their vision and goals for each event to life.

Why do you think that the MTA Workshops are important? What do you get most from this time together?

The experiences from these workshops are talked about daily, with stories about activities and the meaningful connections made during the time spent together. Senior MTA members often reminisce about workshops from years past, clearly cherishing the memories and bonds they formed. There’s truly nothing like an in-person connection with your team. We emphasize this same message to our clients, encouraging them to create space for genuine, organic human interactions—and we make sure to live and breathe this ideal within our own team as well.

What do you do for fun?

I love cooking and entertaining! My favorite part is exploring the market for unique produce or ingredients and then getting creative in the kitchen. I enjoy the challenge of learning new flavors, balancing tastes, and introducing exciting new dishes to the table.

You are originally from? You currently reside in? What do you enjoy most about living there? Any favorite spots that you would recommend to tourists?

I’m originally from St. Petersburg, Russia, but I’ve called the U.S. home since I was young. I currently live in New Jersey. I absolutely love experiencing all four seasons here! New Jersey is full of charming small towns, stunning parks, and gardens, not to mention our beautiful shores. I’m a big fan of the eclectic vibe in Asbury Park and the laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere of Long Beach Island.

To learn more about the MTA Team, visit www.millertanner.com.

Blog

Meet MTA: Allie Heredia, Global Experience Designer – Events

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 Allie Heredia. As a member of our Global Experiences Team, Allie’s role provides oversight for all aspects of planning and executing events to ensure a seamless experience.

Meet Allie Heredia, Global Experience Designer – Events

Strengths (based on CliftonStrengths): Positivity, Developer, Empathy, Arranger, Includer

Tell us about your current role with MTA? What are your primary responsibilities?

In my role, I serve as the primary point of contact for our customers, overseeing all aspects of event planning and execution. My main responsibilities involve coordinating with customers, internal teams, and vendors to ensure seamless event delivery. I handle logistics, such as transportation, accommodations, and food & beverage, while ensuring the event aligns with the customer’s goals and expectations.

What did you do before joining MTA?

For the last 13 years, I have managed events in the engineering and forestry industries.

What’s the best part of your job?

What I enjoy most about my job is the opportunity to see events come to life after all the hard work and preparation. Being on-site and witnessing the success of an event, especially when it exceeds expectations, brings me a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

Allie Heredia pictured with members of MTA’s Global Experiences Team

What’s been your favorite event destination as an event planning professional?

My favorite event destination as an event planner would be Branson, Missouri. While it wasn’t initially on my bucket list, I had the pleasure of visiting five times for events and grew to truly appreciate the area. It’s a beautiful destination, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning lakes. The town is charming, with unique attractions, including the giant chicken, which adds a fun touch.

What’s been your most memorable event to date and why?

My most memorable event took place at the Great Wolf Lodge in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The town itself is quirky, and the falls are stunning. What made this event unique was that attendees were encouraged to bring their families. It was such an interesting mix of professional and personal – with a bowling alley just on the other side of the wall and kids running around howling like wolves. The energy and fun atmosphere made the event stand out, and the attendees absolutely loved it. It was a one-of-a-kind experience that blended work and play in the best way possible.

Do you have a few great travel tips that you could share?

Pack smart! While it’s not always possible to travel with just carry-ons, it can be incredibly helpful when you need to carry your luggage upstairs or switch to another plane quickly. It makes everything more manageable. Packing cubes are also a game-changer! They help you maximize space and keep everything organized. Another important tip is to research your destination beforehand. Know the climate, the local currency, and the transportation options available. It can really make your trip smoother and less stressful.

What’s the one must-have for every event?

A must-have for every event is flexibility. No matter how much you plan, things can change and probably will change whether it’s a last-minute schedule adjustment, travel issues, or unforeseen issues. Being adaptable and able to think on your feet is crucial for ensuring the event continues smoothly.

Why do you think that the MTA Workshops are important? What do you get most from this time together?

The MTA Workshops are so beneficial because they provide a unique opportunity for team members to connect in person, share experiences, and learn from each other. It’s a chance to gain insights into how to work better together and understand the different perspectives within the company.

What makes Miller Tanner Associates stand out as a meeting planning company?

MTA stands out as a meeting planning company because of its incredible team and commitment to excellence. The company fosters a supportive, collaborative, and friendly work environment that encourages employees to do their best work. The team consistently strives to exceed client expectations. MTA’s strong culture, built on respect and genuine care for both employees and customers, is what truly sets MTA apart and is my favorite aspect of MTA.

What do you do for fun?

I have been fostering dogs since 2016 and absolutely love helping pups find their forever home. I also enjoy reading murder mystery books, hiking, and traveling with my daughter.

You are originally from? You currently reside in? What do you enjoy most about living there? Any favorite spots that you would recommend to tourists?

I am originally from Washington and have lived in Phoenix, Arizona for 12 years. There is never a lack of vitamin D, you can always find something to do, and if I ever want to see snow, it is only an hour away. I would recommend tourists go to the Desert Botanical Garden to see the diverse desert flora and to visit Camelback Mountain, one of the most popular hiking trails in Phoenix.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Since joining MTA, I’ve felt a deep sense of gratitude to work for a company that values collaboration, innovation, and excellence, and where every day presents new opportunities.

To learn more about the MTA Team, visit www.millertanner.com.