Catersource + The Special Event Schedule 2026
From Creation to Ideation: How to Design for Success with Operations in Mind
Sophia Lin Kanno (National Director of Creative, Access DMC)
Thomas Whelan (Director of Events Northeast, Access DMC)
Kristen Francis (National Director of Creative, Access DMC)
Location: 408B
Date: Tuesday, March 3
Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Pass Type: All Access, Combined CS/TSE Conference Pass, TSE Conference Pass - Get your pass now!
Track: TSE-Event Mgmt & Production, TSE-Event Planning
Vault Recording: TBD
Audience Level: All
In the fast-paced world of special events, creative brilliance alone isn't enough—success lies in the seamless marriage of ideation and execution. This session pulls back the curtain on the full lifecycle of an event, from RFP to final applause. Learn how to dig deeper than the brief to understand your client's story, connect with their audience, and design with intent.
We'll walk through a step-by-step approach—from the initial proposal and creative development to internal handoffs and onsite execution—highlighting where collaboration between creative and operations can make or break an experience. Discover best practices in developing ideas that are not only visually compelling but also logistically feasible, leveraging tools like AI image generation, simplified renderings, and existing vendor inventory.
Real-world case studies bring the process to life, illustrating how clear communication and cross-functional teamwork elevate outcomes. Whether you're crafting the concept or bringing it to life on site, this session offers practical insights and proven strategies to bridge the gap between vision and reality—so every idea is designed with execution in mind.