Employee Spotlight: Bridget Pistorius
Meet Event Coordinator Bridget Pistorius, joining the Associations team with a degree in Communications and Public Relations from the University of Rhode Island.
Bridget brings valuable hands-on experience to our clients, having previously assisted in coordinating seasonal special events, concerts, and digital marketing campaigns. Bridget assists the team in managing logistics, coordinating with vendors and exhibitors, and overall helping ensure a seamless experience for associations and their members.
Q: What excited you about working at Celtic? What excited me most about working at Celtic was how much I was going to be learning. Working at Celtic has offered me a complete package of everything there is to know about meeting planning, logistics, sales, and the many functions that go into working with associations. Celtic has been able to provide me with invaluable knowledge of events and associations, that only comes from hands-on experience.
Q: What has been your favorite experience thus far as an Event Coordinator? My favorite experience so far as an Event Coordinator at Celtic has been attending a FAM trip sponsored by the Atlantis Hotel in Reno, Nevada. I was thrilled to be hosted by Atlantis alongside event planners and association professionals from across the country. The trip was an incredible learning opportunity. We toured the Atlantis hotel, as well as the Reno-Sparks Convention Center, and I learned the many aspects that go into considering a space for an event. It was especially rewarding to learn from others in the industry and gain a broader perspective on event management. This experience furthered my appreciation for the events industry and gave me new ideas and inspiration that I look forward to applying in my work with future events.
Q: What is one thing that people may not know about what goes into event coordination for associations? One thing people may not know about what goes into event coordination for associations, is how far in advance planning begins. One of the aspects of event coordination that I focus on is site selection. Finding a home for a future association event, such as an annual conference, happens about a year and a half before the event takes place. The majority of planning and coordination occurs between a year and six months before the event. It takes extensive preparation to ensure a successful event for attendees.
Q: What would be your ultimate dream event to attend in any industry? My dream event to attend would be the Met Gala because it brings together the most influential people from the worlds of art, fashion, entertainment, and culture. I would also love to observe and partake in the behind the scenes planning of the event, watching Anna Wintour work her magic.
Q: Where is your go-to Chicago spot to enjoy on the weekend? My go-to Chicago weekend spot, specifically in the summer, is anywhere by the lake. Whether it’s taking a walk on the lakefront trail or sitting at the beach, Lake Michigan is my favorite part of Chicago.
Q: Do you have a favorite quote? My favorite quote is “You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think” -Winnie the Pooh. Although it is from a children’s show, I love this quote because it is important for everyone to remember, no matter your age.
Q: What is a movie or show you saw recently that stuck with you? A show I recently finished watching was Mindhunter, which is based on true events about FBI agents who interview notorious serial killers to understand their psychology and develop criminal profiling tactics. If you are interested in psychology or true crime, this is a great show I would recommend.
Q: If you got the chance to spend a day with three people, past or present, who would they be? I would spend the day with Harry Styles, Amy Poehler, and Jane Goodall- someone to keep me entertained with music, someone to make me laugh, and someone to educate and inspire me.
Q: What is a passion of yours (not associations!) that you could give a thorough presentation about? A passion of mine is photography and I could give an extensive presentation of my favorite pictures I’ve taken.
