Welcome back to Lending Leadership: The Creative Brief.

In our latest episode, we’re diving into a topic our audience asks about all the time: event planning. We know great events don’t just happen—they’re meticulously crafted and strategically funded, often supported by thoughtful sponsorships. To help us unpack the “what, why, and how” of event planning, we welcomed a very special guest: Melanie Schuyler, HMA's event director, who has become a true pro at turning ideas into successful, unforgettable gatherings.

Melanie has worn many hats—social media, graphic design, and event planning—but it’s her passion and expertise for organizing events that have made her such a powerful force behind some of the most effective industry meetups on our calendar. In this candid conversation, she shares lessons learned from trial and error, the power of preparation, and why a solid checklist can be your event’s best friend.

Key takeaways:

1. Preparation is Everything: The success of any event hinges on meticulous planning. Even details as simple as extra copies of seating charts or prepared name tags can make all the difference. And remember, mistakes are simply opportunities to improve your next event!
2. Delegate and Assign Clear Roles: Don’t try to go it alone. Bring in extra hands, assign tasks before the event, and allow others to help. This frees you up to focus on being the connector and leader during the event itself.
3. Build Relationships with Sponsors: Sponsorships don’t have to feel awkward. Start with partners you already know, offer them genuine value (visibility, face time, swag tables), and see your events become more affordable and impactful for everyone.
4. Make the Attendee Experience Seamless: Consider every part of the attendee’s journey—from finding the venue, to the room flow, to making newcomers feel welcome with clear signage and purposeful table arrangements. Creating a friendly, anxiety-free environment pays off in engagement.
5. Always Be Promoting the Next Event: Use your current captive audience to your advantage! Put up easy-to-scan QR codes, distribute event cards on tables, and get feedback through simple surveys. This helps you fill the next room and lets the audience shape future topics and formats.

Whether you’re a new loan officer planning your first happy hour or a seasoned pro looking to scale up your annual rally, Melanie’s advice and our group’s discussion is packed with actionable, real-world tips. And remember—just start. No event is perfect the first time, but every event is a step toward excellence.

Have questions or want help planning your event? Drop us a DM or comment. We’re here to help you turn ideas into experiences that build lasting business relationships.

Don’t forget to subscribe to Lending Leadership for more creative strategies and expert guests. We’ll catch you next time!

Rach & Rinn