Sigma Kappa National Convention

Tuesday, July 27, 2010 - 
For many people, there comes a day when life changes (let's call this an engagement) and they start planning for an event to celebrate this life change (and this, we will call a wedding.)  I was this person in 2006/2007 when my best friend got down on his knee in Epcot and asked me to share his life with him.  We planned for 11 months, and then we got to say "I do" in front of friends and family.  Happiest day of my life as my best friend and I shared our love with those around us.

Photo recap - love my hubs!


After this celebration, many of the newlyweds get sad and think "now what?" because of all this free time on their hands.  Now my friends, this was and is not the case for me.  And no, it was not because I was "over" the planning process or because I'm getting married again (though hubs knows i can't wait to plan our commitment ceremony & celebration!)  It was (and still is) because I'm a meeting and event planner!  I get to do this every day of the year. Honestly, who could me more lucky (I hear some people groaning...)

Professionally, I plan for a whole year every year.  This past year, I had the wonderful opportunity to plan the 84th national convention for Sigma Kappa Sorority.  It was an energizing, moving, and all around great event.  Over 650 women with a common interest and passion came together to celebrate this year's theme, "The Magic of Service" on Orlando, Florida at the Orlando World Marriott Resort.

Highlights of this year's event include:
  • Location.  It was in Orlando, FL at a the beautiful Orlando World Marriott.  This property is gorgeous, boasting a beautiful pool and pristine meeting space.  And the staff was absolutely wonderful which allowed the attendees (and staff) to enjoy every minute.  Thank you Orland World Marriott (specifically, Stephanie, James and Gus Gus!)
  • Food!  This was some of the best banquet food a planner could ask for due to variety, taste and presentation.  From a variety of wraps served family style to celebrate the Panhellenic community to the filet and shrimp during the Achievement banquet, the food was phenomenal.  The hotel staff even surprised me with my favorite food - nachos - during a banquet, just because I was craving them. Phenomenal.
  • Confirmed Conventionite Celebration.  This banquet is a big party for all of the attendees and their guests to enjoy as we honor our Confirmed Conventionite's.  A CC is a Sigma Kappa member who has been to three or more conventions.  This year's theme was "The Magic of Character," and all attendees were asked to dress up as their favorite character. I, of course, chose Disney's Alice and had a wonderful evening dancing with friends.  It is always great to see our collegiate women mix and mingle with the alumnae.  Too cute for sure.
     

    Convention is an experience where the women are energized and excited to bring information back to their chapter, and I am honored to be a part of that.  Being on-site at whatever event I plan, whether it is a meeting or a friend's wedding, makes me remember why I love what I do.  I love to entertain and see people happy as they live in the moment. A big thank you to everyone for their support through the whole conference!