Today we’d like to introduce you to Marcie Booth.
Marcie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I actually knew I wanted to be an event planner when I was 14 and went to my first *NSYNC concert. I remember being totally blown away by how the lights, music, and energy all came together — and I thought, someone planned this. That’s what I want to do.
From there, I really shaped everything around that goal. I studied communications and PR at the University of Toledo, then moved to LA for grad school at FIDM to learn more about design and experience.
Since then, I’ve worked across a bunch of different industries — museums, entertainment, nonprofits, agencies, and now corporate events — and each one taught me something new about how to bring people together through experiences.
Today, I’m a Senior Employee Event Manager, creating events that connect a fully remote workforce and help build company culture. LA has been the perfect backdrop for that journey; it’s pushed me creatively and connected me with some incredible people along the way.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I’ve learned so much along the way. Early in my career, I thought success meant saying yes to everything — every project, every event, every late night. Over time, I realized that kind of pace isn’t sustainable. Finding real work–life balance has been one of my biggest lessons. When I take care of myself, I show up better for my team and for my events.
I’ve also learned that the bigger titles and paychecks I once had in my five-year plan don’t necessarily equate to true happiness. At one point, I was chasing the next level or the next budget milestone, but I realized what actually matters is the culture you’re in. I’ve been in places where the culture didn’t quite fit, and others where I felt completely supported and valued — and the difference is night and day.
Now, I know I thrive in environments where leadership truly invests in people, where growth feels genuine, and where diversity, equity, and inclusion are more than just words. These days, I’m intentional about choosing roles where I can grow, feel aligned, and still have a life outside of work.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in event operations and logistics — I’m the person who takes the big vision and figures out how to actually make it happen. My nonprofit background really shaped how I work. I’m scrappy and resourceful, always thinking about how to stretch a budget and make something amazing without overspending. I’m able to see things from the 30,000-foot view but also zoom in on the small details that make an event seamless.
What really sets me apart is how I lead. I’m proud of the career I’ve built, but I’m even more proud of the people I’ve been able to coach and lead — both at work and during my time as President of ILEA Los Angeles. I believe in leading by example and doing whatever job it takes to make the event happen.
My philosophy has always been to coach people to eventually take my job — because that means I’ve helped them grow, and I’ve left the role or the organization stronger than when I found it. That’s the kind of impact that keeps me motivated and proud of what I do.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
Good question! I’d say my favorite childhood memories are all about time with my family. My dad was really musical, so there was always music in the house, whether he was playing the piano or us singing together. After a number of our holiday dinners, we’d have these karaoke parties that were just the best with all of my extended family. Everyone would jump in to sing, laugh at the fun song choices, and just have a great time being together. Those nights built some of my favorite core memories growing up, and I really hope I can create something like that with my own family one day.
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Image Credits
The Green Headshot is for SPFStudios
