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 Edtra Flowers. With “strategic and connectedness” as her top strengths, Edtra is a pro at delivering engaging experiences that meet and exceed the targeted goals.
Meet Edtra Flowers, Global Experience Designer – Events
Strengths (based on CliftonStrengths): Strategic, Connectedness, Belief, Restorative, Relator
Tell us about your current role with MTA? What are your primary responsibilities?
I am a global experience designer – events. My primary responsibilities include working with customers to meet their event goals. Daily, I collaborate with my MTA teammates and vendors to ensure tasks are being met on time and within budget.
What did you do before joining MTA?
Before joining MTA, I spent many years working in higher education administration. I started as a receptionist and left the industry as an event manager. I would plan everything from virtual meetings to commencement ceremonies. I enjoyed working with the students throughout their collegiate journey.
What’s the best part of your job?
The best part of the job is seeing the attendees come from all over the world. From planning their arrival to putting a face to the name, it’s always a good feeling to see the attendees finally check in at the registration table. I feel good knowing they safely made it to the meeting.
What’s been your favorite event destination as an event planning professional?
My favorite destination has been Toronto. There were so many things to do within the city. The city is comprised of many small businesses, similar to the neighborhoods I frequent in Chicago. It gave me the feeling of home.
What’s been your most memorable event to date and why?
My most memorable event was my first event in Orlando, Florida. I was anxious to be on-site for the first time, so I could be a sponge and soak up as much information as possible. There was a lot to learn but it was great to be hands-on and working with my teammates. I had a great experience.
Do you have a few great travel tips that you could share?
When traveling, pack an extra duffle bag in your suitcase. You may have overpacked or need to leave with more items than expected. Most of the time, it is cheaper to add an extra bag than paying for an overweight one. Lastly, when visiting a new city, ask your transportation (taxi or rideshare) driver for recommendations. They likely visit many neighborhoods and can tell you where you should go or avoid.
You currently reside in? What do you enjoy most about living there? Any favorite spots that you would recommend to tourists?
I was born and currently live in Chicago. I truly enjoy that Chicago has a lot of different neighborhoods where you can experience culture, community, and, most importantly, good food. If you like history and architecture, I would recommend doing an architecture tour.
What do you do for fun?
For fun, I love to explore what my city has to offer. I love to try new restaurants, check out art exhibits, and shop at small shops. In addition, I am very committed to volunteerism. I spend a lot of my free time planning community events and providing resources to people in need.
What makes Miller Tanner stand out as a meeting planning company? What’s your favorite aspect of MTA?
MTA stands out because of the people behind the scenes completing the tasks and taking the extra steps to do what’s best for the customer. Everyone comes from different backgrounds and each holds a special gift that is beneficial to the process.
Why do you think that the MTA Workshops are important? What do you get most from this time together?
MTA Workshops are important because you get to share stories with your teammates and learn from them. You find out how you can work better together and what is needed to be a good team member to others. It is a great opportunity to connect with others who are in various departments.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I love that I am a part of a team that is constantly growing. Our customers are well supported by a team that is efficient and knowledgeable. It is great that we can impact the pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device industry in a major way.
To learn more about the MTA Team, visit www.millertanner.com.
