Meeting Planner Spotlight: Melissa Hahn, CMP, HMCC Account Lead Meetings & Incentives Worldwide

February 6th, 2016 | hereschicago

Jim Grillo, CMP interviews Melissa Hahn, CMP, HMCC, Account Lead with Meetings & Incentives Worldwide for this month’s Meeting & Event Planner Spotlight.

How did you get into event planning?

I started taking classes at College of DuPage.  I was working on an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice, and by chance,  I met someone in a class that was in the Travel & Tourism program.  I signed up for a class and the rest is history!

Who has been the biggest influence in your life? 

My brother Greg is the biggest influence in my life.  He is my cheerleader, supporter and my best friend.  He went from working in a factory to finding his passion in selling cars.  He is now a proud owner of a Chevrolet Dealership and his customers love him.

What is your favorite way to spend a Saturday?

Gardening, yard work, oh no, not me… Watching college football.  I love Notre Dame and the Tennessee Vols!

What was your family like growing up?

What were you like as a kid? I was networking at 4 years old.  I lived 1 block from school.  My first day of Kindergarten, I walked to school with my best friend Beth.  I had such a great day, meeting new friends in my class; I already had a bestie by the end of the afternoon.  The afternoon bell rang, and I was on a school bus going home with my new pal Stephanie.  Luckily Stephanie’s mom called mine since the police were looking for me.

What type of events you plan?

I plan training events for Pharmaceutical companies.

What type of music do you love?

I love all types of music, but I would have to say my favorite is Country.

What don’t people know about you?

I was featured in Cat Fancy Magazine in 2002 for starting a Spay & Neuter Program in DuPage County.  This program helps individuals with low cost spay and neuters for their pets and is still in existence today.

What do you love about planning events in Chicago?

I love the people and connections I have made in the industry.  This city is incredible.  We have great food, culture, attractions, but what makes it amazing is the people.

What is your favorite restaurant or bar (Personally)?

The Club Tavern in Elmhurst.  It is an old school bar where everyone knows your name.  They even have turtle races on Saturday night.  Everyone is welcome, at any time; you will see Lawyers, Iron Workers, Professionals, Construction workers, Hockey teams, even the band the Orwell’s comes in from time to time.

What does it take to be a successful event planner?

Planning, persistence and Patience!

What is your favorite color?

My favorite color is blue. It reminds me that the sky is the limit.

What are you passionate about?

The Chicago Bears.  On September 29, 2003, the grand opening of the new and improved Soldier Field, I had this date on my calendar for 12 months and my boss told me I could not go to the game because she needed me for a Senior Leadership Meeting.  I asked myself, what’s more important your job or the Bears?  I chose the Bears and my previous director still laughs at me to this day that I would have left my job for the home opener of the Bears.

Do you have any Association affiliations?

MPI – I serve on the Board of Directors for Sponsorship & Golf

What’s your go-to meal when you’re home alone?

Pizza – I love sausage pizza!

What’s your favorite thing about your hometown?

I live in Elmhurst and I love it.  The town has great people, a fabulous downtown, restaurants and great access to the city, O’Hare and the expressways.  You can always find me at 100 South or the Club in Elmhurst.

What’s on your bucket list?

A trip to Ireland. I love anything and everything Irish!

What was your First concert?

Motley Crue

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.

 

Are you or do you know of a meeting or event planner that you would like to see featured in Here’s Chicago’s spotlight?  If so, please get in touch with us and we’ll take it from there!