Today we’d like to introduce you to Margaret Launzel-Pennes.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’m a second-generation events maestro, and when I say that event planning runs through my veins, I truly mean it! Picture this: I grew up immersed in the pulsating world of corporate events, thanks to my dad, a mastermind behind large-scale multi-industry tradeshows. It was during these formative years that I discovered the electrifying potential of events, and it ignited a passion within me that has burned brightly ever since.
But my journey didn’t begin with events. No, it kicked off in the realm of fashion. I found myself in the heart of Manhattan, sketching intricate embroidery examples for a prominent men’s clothing company. Little did I know, this was merely the prologue to an extraordinary chapter in my life. As if by fate, the advertising agency for the company gravitated to my innate creative flair and whisked me away into their captivating world.
While attending countless meetings with clients and colleagues, I couldn’t help but notice a unique opportunity that lingered tantalizingly in the air. Like an intrepid explorer charting uncharted territories, I began suggesting ways to weave the magic of human connection into our marketing strategies through events. It was a eureka moment, a spark that set my career ablaze, and from that point forward, there was no turning back.
Since then, my life has been a whirlwind of excitement and adrenaline as I dived headfirst into a multitude of event realms. Conferences, tradeshows, brand activations, and roadshows became the canvas on which I painted unforgettable experiences. User conferences transformed into immersive journeys of discovery, while proprietary events shimmered with exclusivity and allure. Incentive trips transported people to new horizons, sales meetings crackled with energy, and employee recognition events celebrated the stars within organizations. And let’s not forget the glittering spectacles of awards ceremonies and the sheer delight of crafting special events that left guests spellbound.
For me, every day has been a kaleidoscope of joy, brimming with boundless enthusiasm. The sheer thrill of orchestrating magical moments, of transforming mere spaces into immersive wonderlands, and witnessing the power of connection between people is a feeling beyond compare. I am a firm believer that when passion and purpose align, extraordinary things happen, and I am living proof of that truth.
As I reflect on my journey, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the path that led me here. The memories created, the relationships forged, and the transformative impact of each event are the fuel that propels me forward. I stand here today, a storyteller, an architect of experiences, and a custodian of memories, forever captivated by the allure of events and humbled by the privilege to craft extraordinary moments that will be etched in hearts for a lifetime.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Embarking on this exhilarating journey hasn’t been a smooth sail but rather an adventure peppered with challenges that have shaped me into the resilient professional I am today. Like any ambitious pursuit, the road to success is often paved with obstacles waiting to be conquered.
One of the initial hurdles I faced was establishing my own identity within the events industry. Being a second-generation professional, I had big shoes to fill and the weight of expectations looming over me. It took perseverance, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence to carve out my unique path and prove my capabilities beyond familial ties.
Another significant challenge was navigating the ever-evolving landscape of event planning. The industry is an ever-shifting tapestry of trends, technologies, and client expectations. Staying ahead of the curve and continuously reinventing myself required adaptability, a thirst for knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to staying abreast of emerging industry trends.
Financial constraints also presented their fair share of hurdles along the way. Co-founding my own venture right at the start of Covid meant facing the daunting task of generating immediate revenue, investing in resources, and building a team that shared mine and my partner’s passion. It demanded resourcefulness, strategic planning, and a shrewd understanding of the financial landscape to overcome these challenges and establish a solid foundation for growth.
Moreover, the logistics and coordination involved in orchestrating large-scale events often tested my organizational skills and ability to juggle multiple moving parts simultaneously. From coordinating vendors and managing tight timelines to handling unforeseen obstacles, each event came with its unique set of logistical puzzles that required nimbleness and problem-solving prowess.
However, it is through these struggles that I truly learned the essence of resilience and the power of collaboration. Each hurdle became an opportunity for growth, pushing me to expand my skill set, forge valuable partnerships, and seek innovative solutions.
By embracing these challenges head-on and with unwavering determination, I’ve emerged stronger, more experienced, and better equipped to navigate the dynamic landscape of the events industry. These trials have been transformative, shaping not only my professional acumen but also instilling in me an unyielding spirit and an unshakable belief in the power of events to create extraordinary experiences.
As you know, we’re big fans of POP Experiential. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At POP | X, we pride ourselves on being a women-owned powerhouse in the realm of event and experiential management. Our team comprises seasoned professionals with an impressive track record and expertise.
What sets us apart is our comprehensive range of services and capabilities. From creative event design in both digital and physical realms to immersive environmental design, we possess the prowess to bring a company’s vision to life. We specialize in all-scale virtual and hybrid technical production, as well as the meticulous management, production, and logistics involved in in-person events.
Our portfolio speaks volumes about our expertise. We have orchestrated thought leadership summits, symposiums, educational conferences, corporate retreats, investor and board meetings, and large-scale trade shows. Over the years, we have successfully produced more than 150 complex events for esteemed organizations such as Penn Medicine, MD Anderson, National Association for Proton Therapy, Mental Health America, The Orthobiologics Institute, Dell, Lattice Semiconductor, BMC Software, and IEEE. Notably, we have been awarded the prestigious Miami University Ohio’s 2023 and 2024 fundraising roadshow.
What truly sets us apart is our ability to handle any event experience, be it large or small, with remarkable success. We pride ourselves on delivering engagements that not only achieve qualitative excellence but also yield tangible, quantifiable results. Our team’s collective expertise, particularly in virtual and digital engagements, positions us perfectly to serve a wide variety of experiences and engagements. We draw upon a wealth of best practices and successful case studies from diverse industries, ensuring that our solutions are both innovative and effective.
Whether it’s an in-person, hybrid, or virtual event, we prioritize seamless experiential interactions between attendees, fostering engagement and connection. Our proposed solutions and methodologies are rooted in lessons learned, a deep understanding of diverse objectives, and a broad knowledge of integrated event solutions.
We bring passion, expertise, and a commitment to excellence to every project we undertake.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Networking and finding a mentor are invaluable aspects of personal and professional growth. Over the years, I’ve discovered a few strategies that have proven to be successful in this regard.
First and foremost, it’s important to be proactive and take the initiative. Seek out industry events, conferences, and professional gatherings where you can connect with like-minded individuals. Attend seminars, workshops, and panel discussions to expand your knowledge and meet people who share your passions. These settings provide an excellent opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations and build relationships with potential mentors.
Another effective approach is to leverage online platforms and social media. Join industry-specific groups or communities on platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or professional forums. Engage in discussions, share insights, and contribute valuable content. Networking through these platforms allows you to connect with professionals from around the world, opening doors to new opportunities and mentorship possibilities.
When it comes to finding a mentor, it’s essential to approach the process with authenticity and a genuine interest in learning. Look for professionals who inspire you and align with your goals and values. Reach out to them with a personalized message, expressing your admiration for their work and explaining why you believe they would be an excellent mentor for you. Demonstrate your eagerness to learn from their experiences and be open to their guidance.
Additionally, consider joining industry associations or organizations that offer mentorship programs or networking events. These structured programs often provide a framework for establishing mentor-mentee relationships and offer valuable resources to support your growth.
Remember, networking and finding a mentor is not a one-sided endeavor. It’s crucial to offer value and build mutually beneficial relationships. Actively listen, seek advice, and be willing to contribute your own knowledge and experiences. Cultivating a genuine connection and showing gratitude for their time and insights will help foster a long-lasting mentorship.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of networking within your own circles. Reach out to former colleagues, professors, or industry contacts who may have connections or insights that could be valuable to you. Nurture these existing relationships and explore opportunities for collaboration or mentorship.
In my personal journey, I have found that the most fruitful connections and mentorships have emerged from a combination of these approaches. By being proactive, authentic, and open to learning, I have been fortunate to forge valuable connections and receive guidance from mentors who have played a pivotal role in my professional development.
Networking and finding a mentor are ongoing processes, so it’s important to remain persistent and adaptable. Keep expanding your network, seeking opportunities to learn, and nurturing relationships. With time and dedication, you will find mentors who will inspire and guide you on your own remarkable journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.popxperiential.com
- Instagram: popexperiential
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/popxperiential
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/popxperiential/
- Twitter: @popexperiential
