Navigating the Event World at the Beginning of My Career

From the desk of: Melissa Tilley

Being the youngest or newest team member of an event planning company, or really any company, can be intimidating. I’m surrounded by people who’ve been in the industry for years, and sometimes it feels like I’m constantly playing catch-up. Transitioning from college, where familiarity breeds comfort, to the professional world, where the stakes are higher, has been a challenge. The learning curve is steep, and I’ve had to lean into the discomfort of being a beginner again. But one of the first things I’ve had to remind myself is that I don’t have to know everything right away.

At AE, embracing learning and asking questions is encouraged. The company fosters a culture of curiosity and collaboration where the open-door policy allows me to learn from every team member. Whether it’s for brainstorming, listening in on meetings, guidance, or just a further understanding on how we operate, there's always something valuable to gain from the team’s diverse expertise, creating limitless opportunities for creativity and growth.

On-site events have become my best classroom. Our staff schedule allows me to assist on site at a variety of events, offering hands-on experience and a well-rounded education for different event types. Watching my teammates in action and learning to anticipate needs not only boosts my confidence but also inspires me to be the most reliable and proactive assistant I can be.

Of course, mistakes will happen… Instead of letting those slip-ups discourage me, I’ve learned that resilience is key. Each error is just a lesson in disguise providing opportunities for growth rather than reasons for shame.

When I’m feeling insecure, I remind myself that I am at the beginning of my journey. Every seasoned event planner was once in my shoes—right where I am now. It’s normal to feel lost sometimes, but I have a super knowledgeable team to support me which makes me feel so grateful. This is all part of the process of growing, not just as an employee, but as a professional in an industry I’m passionate about. I am looking forward to seeing what’s to come with AE Events!