As we head towards the end of 2024, it seems the perfect opportunity to take a minute to pause, reflect and share my gratitude for what has been quite a year for Park Lane Events. From strengthened client relationships, maintaining a decent work-life balance to attending industry events and exhibitions, the last 12 months have been filled with growth, new connections and positive developments at PLE HQ and I’m so grateful to my amazing team who have been by my side throughout and helped make it all possible.
Here’s a little look back at some of the highlights that I think many can relate to from 2024:
Strengthened Client Relationships
One of the highlights of 2024 has to have been the consistent loyalty that I have received from my wonderful clients. I’ve been really fortunate to work with some amazing individuals and companies over the last couple of years who not only value the work that we do together but who have also grown with me post Covid and helped to support the re-build of the business. I’m so grateful for their ongoing trust which enables me to a job that I love and deliver successful events year on year. It’s so true that it never feels like work when you are working with like-minded people.
Collaborating with Venues
During this past year, I’ve also had the pleasure of working with some brilliant venues all over the UK who have gone above and beyond to ensure that both my clients and I have had a positive experience throughout the event planning process. They have been quick to respond to enquiries and have really taken the time to understand my clients’ needs, however unusual they might be! This willingness to ensure that expectations are met – whether it be through negotiating specific terms or offering extra flexibility has enabled us all to work well together (and made the whole process a lot more efficient and enjoyable!).
The Sweet Spot of Work-Life Balance
As a self-employed Mum of two teenage girls, the juggle of multi-tasking and needing to be in various locations at the same time is one all parents will relate too. As the girls grow older their needs change and the ability to adapt quickly and cope with any last-minute challenges as well as the usual day to day requirements is not taken light heartedly. This has always been very important to me and having ‘non negotiables’ at home (such as eating together when possible and no phones at the table, that includes us grown-ups!) as well as work is my professional life is a great way to avoid misunderstandings and miscommunications and will continue to be a key priority of mine for 2025. Shout out to Mr T who is also self employed and takes on the lions share of cooking, washing and ironing. It’s definitely Team Taylor here at Taylor Towers!
A Big Thank You to My Amazing Team
None of this would be possible without the support of my incredible team and I would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to them for their help over the last 12 months.
Lee has been a huge asset to the team when it comes to boosting our social media presence.
Sarah, our ghost-writer has also been an invaluable support when it comes to our monthly blog schedule.
And finally, a big thank you to Suzie who keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes with her accounts support.
I’m so grateful for their hard work and dedication throughout the last 12 months. But it has not all been plain sailing! After spending months employing and training a PA, alas it did not work out and that idea has now been shelved.
Staying Connected and Informed:
I’ve also thoroughly enjoyed attending various industry exhibitions throughout this year which have allowed me to stay up to date with the latest event planning trends and new venue openings. Our industry is all about connections and live events such as CHS Birmingham and the BNC Show where I have had the privilege to speak and share industry insights, new hotel opens as well as catch up with industry friends, make new contacts and keep up to speed on who is doing what, where and when.
I’m also incredibly grateful for the volume of industry professionals who have signed up to my webinars over the last 12 months. It’s been fantastic to connect with so many like-minded individuals and share my insights on venue finding, event trends and industry updates. I’m already looking forward to continuing these webinars in 2025. [Sign up here for the next one!]
Looking Ahead to 2025
As I reflect on the successes of 2024, I’m so looking forward to see what 2025 has in store! The solid relationships that I’ve built with clients and venues, along with my solid work-life balance and the support of my fantastic team have set the stage for an even more successful year. I’m committed to continuing the work I love, staying connected with the industry through exhibitions and my webinars, plus embracing new opportunities that may come my way.
THANK YOU to each person who has been a part of this.
