Event Planner Spotlight with Melissa Hahn, CMP,MMP
October 25th, 2025 | hereschicago
How did you get into meeting & event planning?
I’ve always loved planning get-togethers and birthday parties-it came naturally to me and brought me so
much joy. One
day, a friend suggested I consider event planning as a career, and that sparked something in me. I enrolled in
classes
at College of DuPage, and from the very first course, I knew this was the path I wanted to pursue.
While working at HSBC, I mentioned to Sharon, the Manager of Corporate Events, that I had been taking classes in
event
planning. As luck would have it, she had a position open on her team. That opportunity was a turning point for
me-it’s
where my passion truly began, and I’ve been growing in this field ever since.
What advice do you have for those seeking to secure a job as a meeting or event planner?
For new event planners, start by honing strong organizational skills-these are the foundation of successful
events.
Focus on detailed planning, realistic budgeting, and clear communication with both your internal team and
external
vendors. These skills will help you stay ahead of challenges and deliver seamless experiences.
Networking is key. Attend local events, join professional associations that align with your interests, such as
MPI
(Meeting Professionals International), PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association), or SITE (Society
for
Incentive Travel Excellence). These organizations offer valuable resources, connections, and learning
opportunities.
When working with clients or stakeholders, ask thoughtful questions like:
Understanding their goals helps you design events that are both impactful and strategic.
Always keep the audience in mind. Create compelling experiences that resonate with attendees, and be prepared
for the
unexpected-flexibility and problem-solving are essential traits in this field.
Finally, seek feedback regularly and use it to grow. Focus on mastering your craft while also promoting
yourself. Build
a strong event portfolio that showcases your creativity, attention to detail, and ability to deliver results.
What have you learned on the job as a meeting and event planner? One of the biggest lessons I”ve learned is the importance of being adaptable, organized, and calm under pressure. No matter how well you plan, unexpected issues will arise-whether it’s last-minute changes, vendor hiccups, or budget constraints. Staying composed and solution-oriented is key. Always get approval for any additional expenses that come up. Transparency and proactive communication help build trust and avoid surprises. Strong communication skills are essential-not just with clients, but also with vendors, venues, and internal teams. Providing meticulous attention to detail ensures everyone is aligned and nothing falls through the cracks. Being resourceful and able to solve problems on the fly is a must. Whether it’s finding a backup speaker or reworking a room layout, quick thinking can save the day. And finally, stay positive, even in tough situations. Your energy sets the tone for the team and the event. A calm, confident attitude helps everyone stay focused and motivated.
What skills do you feel it takes to be a successful meeting and event planner?
Events rarely go 100% as planned. Whether it’s a last-minute venue change, tech issues, or unexpected guest
needs, being
able to think quickly and calmly under pressure is crucial. A great planner anticipates challenges and pivots
with
grace.
From timelines and budgets to vendor contracts and guest lists, planners juggle countless details. Strong
organizational
skills ensure nothing falls through the cracks and that every element aligns with the event’s goals.
Building strong relationships with vendors, venues, and clients can make or break an event. Networking helps
planners
access better deals, troubleshoot faster, and create memorable experiences through trusted partnerships.
Managing finances wisely is key to delivering value without compromising quality. A successful planner knows how
to
stretch a dollar, prioritize spending in a way you would think they spent a million dollars, and track expenses
meticulously to keep in budget.
Understanding the client’s vision and goals-and making them feel heard-is what sets great planners apart. It’s
about
creating experiences that reflect their brand, values, and expectations.
What’s your favorite place in the entire world? I love Lake Geneva, WI. It is my happy place!
Who is your best friend? What do you like about him/her?
My best friend is Lisa Spedale. I love so many things about her, but what truly stands out are her incredible
qualities-support, loyalty, honesty, and empathy. She’s the kind of person who shows up, listens deeply, and
always
keeps it real. I’m lucky to have her in my life.
Her journey goes far beyond a simple makeover-it’s about gaining confidence, self-respect, and finding her voice
in a world that once dismissed her.
What is your favorite movie of all time? Why so? Pretty Woman is one of my all-time favorites! The chemistry between Julia Roberts and Richard Gere is unforgettable, but what truly makes the film stand out for me is the transformation of Vivian Ward.
What’s your biggest goal in life right now? I’m focused on practicing gratitude every day and reconnecting with manifesting through my vision board. It’s a powerful way to stay grounded, intentional, and aligned with the life I want to create. This journey helps me reflect on what I’ve already accomplished and stay inspired for what’s ahead.
What don’t people know about you? I have lived in Illinois most of my life, but most people do not know that I grew up in West Tennessee in the town of Martin.
What type of music do you love? Country, Rock N Roll. My newest favorite band is the Red Clay Strays.
When not working, what do you love to do? I love road trips!
What tips can you provide to someone new who wants to be in the event planning profession? Network, network, network.
Which books have you read multiple times? I belong to a book club, but I don’t read.
What’s on your bucket list?
Five years ago, I added a big goal to my vision board: visit all 50 U.S. states. At the time, I had 33 states
left to
explore.
Fast forward to today-I’m thrilled to share that I’ve now visited 46 states!
Only four more to go, and here they are:
Each one is calling my name, and I can’t wait to experience what makes them special. Almost there!
What are your thoughts about HeresChicago.com? Here’s Chicago is a great site. Easy to navigate and find what you need at your fingertips. Whether you have been planning a few months or years, you can always find a unique venue or location for your next event.
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