Family By Choice

About TenDot

TenDot is a full-service meeting management and incentive house. Partnering with companies across the nation, TenDot plans, executes, and streamlines the world’s best corporate meetings and reward travel programs. The TenDot team has extensive industry experience and in-depth knowledge of domestic and international travel. Solutions created by TenDot have been shown to increase sales and employee retention, while improving overall company performance.

Our Core Values

Do the right thing, period.

It’s simple, but paramount. If a mistake is made, we make it right, right away. No finger pointing here.

Family By Choice

The connections we make are for life. We have each other’s backs and continually strengthen our bonds.

We Care Intensely

Your success is our success. Your failure is our failure.

YES

We can and we will. With our passion and energy, we find a way to yes.

A TenDot Day

When one awakens and chooses to have a positive influence on one’s self, family, company and community!

Our Core Focus

Strengthening Human Connections
&
Creating Memorable Experiences

The TenDot Team

Our team is carefully created by ensuring we have the right people in the right seats. Each TenDot family member lives and breathes our core values, while having the know-how and experience to excel at what they do best. This ensures our clients receive world-class service and we exceed your expectations. Plus, we’re really a lot of fun to work with!

Check out our profiles to learn more about each team member.

Derrick A. Eells: Founder
Derrick A. Eells
Founder
Jeff Eells: Co-Founder & President
Jeff Eells
Co-Founder & President
Beckie Albee: Director of Human Resources and Development
Beckie Albee
Director of Human Resources and Development
Pat Mueller : Founder and Principal of P.M. Mueller & Associates, Inc.
Pat Mueller
Founder and Principal of P.M. Mueller & Associates, Inc.
Todd Yorges: Director of Finance
Todd Yorges
Director of Finance
Cassie Breinlinger: Meeting and Incentive Manager
Cassie Breinlinger
Meeting and Incentive Manager
Francine Smith: Meeting and Incentive Manager
Francine Smith
Meeting and Incentive Manager
Jane Foster: Meeting and Incentive Manager
Jane Foster
Meeting and Incentive Manager
Jennae Smith: Meeting and Incentive Manager
Jennae Smith
Meeting and Incentive Manager
Darlene Kuykendall: Meeting and Incentive Manager
Darlene Kuykendall
Meeting and Incentive Manager
Kelly Glaspy: Meeting and Incentive Manager
Kelly Glaspy
Meeting and Incentive Manager
Oscar Briones: Sales and Support Specialist
Oscar Briones
Sales and Support Specialist
Daniela Gonzalez: Marketing Support Specialist
Daniela Gonzalez
Marketing Support Specialist
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Derrick A. Eells
Founder
Derrick A. Eells: Founder

Derrick co-founded TenDot in 2005, was named President in 2014 and took on the Founder role in 2023.

He builds lasting relationships with TenDot’s family by choice through remarkable programs and events that produce results. He graduated from the University of San Diego with a BA in Spanish and certification in Not-for-Profit Leadership. He worked as a Director for the world’s largest meeting management and incentive travel company. Following this experience, he returned to his native Lincoln, NE to create TenDot. With extensive knowledge of the world and cultures, Derrick seamlessly integrates clients’ goals with a uniquely designed program to fit their needs.

As a speaker, he has provided numerous presentations and keynote speeches on entrepreneurship, the customer service experience, leadership, aligning personal and professional values, sales leadership and building relationships.

He is a member of the Entrepreneurship Organization (EO), a founding member of Lincoln’s Young Professionals Group, and volunteers with Junior Achievement.
 

Q:
What's the most daring thing you've ever done?
A:

An aerial dogfight! Yes, I flew the plane.

Q:
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A:

I wanted to have my own plane and be President of the United States.

Q:
How many pairs of shoes do you own?
A:

Too many to count if I have to include my cowboy boots.

Q:
Who is the coolest celebrity you've ever met?
A:

Dikembe Mutombo. As an avid sports fan growing up, I was fascinated with his ability to speak multiple languages and adapt to life in the NBA. I ended up meeting him at the Miami airport on my way home from Colombia. He was hard to miss at 7'+ tall!

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Jeff Eells
Co-Founder & President
Jeff Eells: Co-Founder & President

With over 15 years of experience as a VP of Sales, I specialize in developing and executing data-driven sales strategies. I excel in generating leads, closing deals, and consistently exceeding revenue targets. My success is driven by a blend of strong social networking skills and effective marketing communication strategies.

Beyond my professional accomplishments, my mission extends to creating a positive impact on both myself and those around me. I strive to foster environments of excellence and collaboration, believing that these values are key to achieving lasting success in any endeavor.

Q:
Does your family have a “motto” – spoken or unspoken? 
A:

"Do the right thing when no one else is looking". This is something we learned from a very young age, and it continuously guides me through life.

Q:
Do you have any “hidden talents”?
A:

The very first company I ever started was back in grade school. I was "Jeff the Juggler" and performed at community events, birthdays, and local talent shows.

Q:
What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?
A:

My sister-in-law gave me a book of my father's life story. She spent a year asking him different questions about his life and collected the stories in a book. One of the most impactful and thoughtful gifts I ever received.

Q:
What's the most unusual thing you've ever eaten?
A:

On a food tour of the Mission District in San Francisco, I ate a pig brain taco. Glad I did, will not be doing it again.

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Beckie Albee
Director of Human Resources and Development
Beckie Albee: Director of Human Resources and Development

Beckie has two decades of experience in communications, events, and marketing management. She started at TenDot in 2013, and since then, she's worn many hats in the company. From client marketing services, hotel and venue sourcing, budgeting, and navigating contracts to ensuring seamless client events, Beckie has a unique view of the client journey from inception to celebrating success. Beckie has managed incentive travel programs and corporate meetings from 30-350, making sure each one is a memorable experience.
 
Recently, Beckie took on a new role as the Director of Human Resources and Development. In this position, she's focused on helping TenDot's team members grow and succeed, whether it's through welcoming new hires, training, or helping them develop in their career through industry education opportunities.
 
Outside of work, Beckie's all about adventure. She loves hitting the road with her partner Andrew in their RV, exploring nature's beauty. They've got a furry companion too – Penelope, their rescue dog. When she's not off exploring or traveling with TenDot, you might spot Beckie at concerts, trying to meet her reading goals, or even picking up a new hobby like Pickleball. She's all about making every moment count.
 

Q:
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A:

So many things… Lawyer, Actress, Acrobat, Detective, Fashion Designer

Q:
What are three items that are on your bucket list?
A:

Skydive, learn how to sail and attend the Grammys

Q:
Who is the coolest celebrity you've ever met?
A:

I was a finalist for a national sandwich recipe contest in the fourth grade (back when Full House was everything), and Dave Coulier (Uncle Joey, “Cut…it…out") was the judge. At the time, meeting him felt like the coolest thing ever!

Q:
What's the one thing you've waited in line the longest for?
A:

Franklin Barbecue in Austin, TX

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Pat Mueller
Founder and Principal of P.M. Mueller & Associates, Inc.
Pat Mueller : Founder and Principal of P.M. Mueller & Associates, Inc.

Pat Mueller is a seasoned professional with an extensive background in event design and incentive travel. As the Founder and Principal of P.M. Mueller & Associates, Inc., she has spent over four decades championing premier corporate travel programs and signature events around the world. Her illustrious career began in 1980, and since then, she has built a reputation for excellence, creativity, and a commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Pat Mueller is not just an industry veteran; she's also an accredited Pandemic Meeting and Event Designer. Her innovative approach and unwavering commitment to providing top-notch event experiences have made her a respected figure in the world of event management.

In 2023, a new chapter in Pat's journey began as she announced the merger of P.M. Mueller & Associates, Inc. with TenDot. Pat's vision, dedication, and her ability to craft unforgettable moments make her an invaluable asset to the TenDot family.
 

Q:
If you were a movie character, who would you be?
A:

Robin Williams in the movie RV.  Known as RV Gal, my goal in life is to be the 4’ll  80 year old lady driving the Big Rig!

Q:
Which of the five senses would you say is your strongest?
A:

SIGHT!  I’ve been told my entire life I’m a visionary, and this gift has served me well both professionally and personally.

Q:
What is your most treasured possession?
A:

I actually have two.  When my dad passed, I took his vinyl coin purse he always carried in his pocket that still has his change in it.  Of equal value, I have my mom’s wallet with her driver’s license expiring on her 102nd birthday.  I pray I still have a driver’s license as long as she had!

Q:
What would be the title of your autobiography?
A:

“Stories I couldn’t tell my husband until I returned home”
Our crazy world-wide business travels have given us so many stories to tell.  Some were best unknown until I returned home and could share them in person.

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Todd Yorges
Director of Finance
Todd Yorges: Director of Finance

Meet Todd, a small-town guy from the western edge of the Nebraska Sandhills, who found his way to the heart of Nebraska, making Lincoln his home after college. With an extensive background in accounting and finance, Todd's professional journey has taken him through a mix of industries—insurance, real estate, manufacturing, and medical.
 
For over 30 years, he was out on the football field or basketball court, officiating high school and small college games. His love for high school sports remains undiminished, as he continues to play a key role in training and evaluating officials in Nebraska.
 
But Todd's world revolves around more than just scoreboards and spreadsheets. He and his wife, Judi, have two sons. From sports events to various activities, Todd and Judi have been their biggest cheerleaders. It's this deep connection to family that led Todd to TenDot in November of 2023, where he found a workplace that values what matters most to him—family, passion, and a friendly team spirit.
 

Q:
What is your biggest fear?
A:

Heights

Q:
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A:

NBA basketball player

Q:
What would you sing at Karaoke night?
A:

It’s Still Rock & Roll to me by Billy Joel

Q:
Do you remember your first time on an airplane? Where were you going and why?
A:

I flew from Denver to Seattle with my grandparents, probably in 1978, to visit my aunt and uncle and their family.

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Cassie Breinlinger
Meeting and Incentive Manager
Cassie Breinlinger: Meeting and Incentive Manager

Cassie Breinlinger is New York Made, LA grown, and currently resides in sunny Florida. All the top states for hospitality! Cassie attended the Rosen College of Hospitality Management at the University of Central Florida (go Knights!) in 2011. She studied Event Planning/Management and spent 12 years in the Los Angeles area as a venue coordinator, wedding planner, and special event planner. She has curated, coordinated, and planned everything from Batz Mitzvahs, Weddings, Movie Sets, Award Ceremonies, Movie Premieres, Television Shows, Flash Mob Engagements, Wrestling Events, Concerts, and much more.

With over 150 events yearly her favorite thing about the industry is having the opportunity to help clients bring their visions to life and create unforgettable memories. She is a very enthusiastic and outgoing person who loves working with others and meeting new people and can easily manage complex issues creatively and effectively. In her spare time, you can find Cassie enjoying her first love- Dance. Teaching dance around the US and judging for the top competitions is one of her favorite things to do! She looks forward to having the opportunity to work with you and create a
TenDot experience!

Q:
Have you ever had a nickname?
A:

Cassie CABS- because I am from and love NY, but also have huge ears!
 

Q:
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
A:

Would love to be able to walk through a door or closet and be in whatever location I needed- like Sabrina the Teenage Witch.
 

Q:
How many pairs of shoes do you own?
A:

As a sneakerhead, Hip Hop dancer, and fashion guru I have a whole closet of shoes – from Jordans to heels! My sneakers are my favorite collection. I love to attend Sneaker Con. High tops, chucks, sandals, heels. I enjoy a unique pair that allows my personality to stand out.
 

Q:
Who is the coolest celebrity you’ve ever met?
A:

Working in the entertainment industry I have had the opportunity to meet and work with a plethora of celebrities. One of my favorites is by far Prince and Mark Cuban is one of the kindest individuals.
 

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Francine Smith
Meeting and Incentive Manager
Francine Smith: Meeting and Incentive Manager

I have worked in the Travel & Hospitality industry since 1999, focusing on corporate travel and then broadening into meeting & event planning.  My biggest asset to TenDot is that I have been lucky enough to experience 17 years of award trips as an attendee.  I am able to utilize what I have learned as a traveler and implement that for every client trip I plan to make every experience for our clients a memorable one.

I have 3 favorite travel experiences as we are often asked, what is your favorite place to travel to. I always say 3 destinations: For absolute beauty, it is St. Mortiz Switzerland, simply majestic.  For adventure, nothing compares to an African Safari and seeing the animals in their element while watching their day-to-day life unfold before your eyes.  The creatures are stunning up close - an amazing experience.  My last category is the unexpected and that is Marrakech, Morocco.  The culture is so vastly different from ours, that it’s in a category all on its own and I loved being able to witness it firsthand. 
 

Q:
What motivates you to work hard?
A:

 My clients and their guests. Seeing what joy is brought to so many faces when they are able to experience something that they may not have been able to do on their own.  It makes me want to work harder to create that for every trip I plan.

Q:
What's the most unusual thing you've ever eaten?
A:

Haggis in Scotland....it is DELICIOUS!

Q:
Does your family have a “motto” – spoken or unspoken?
A:

Since my children left for their first day of Pre-K, I have always said to them: "Be a good friend." And they respond with, "And make good choices." It stuck.  My children are now 18 and 20 and we say this daily.  

Q:
What “lesson from mom” do you still live by today?
A:

2 lessons my little 100% Italian mother always lived by and I do as well: 1. Never put new shoes on the table. 2. No more than 2 people should ever make a bed.  Both are bad luck; Italian superstitions!

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Jane Foster
Meeting and Incentive Manager
Jane Foster: Meeting and Incentive Manager

With ten years in hospitality, Jane's journey began as a wedding planner, moving on to professional tennis events and corporate gatherings. While working at TenDot, she's mastered the art of communication and logistics. Her passion for travel shines through as she loves creating authentic and one-of-a-kind experiences for her clients. 

Hospitality is Jane's forte, and she thrives in building strong connections and ensuring every detail is meticulously executed. Her problem-solving skills ensure that even the most complex challenges are tackled with ease, leaving clients with a sense of confidence and assurance. Outside of work, Jane enjoys skiing, mountain biking, gardening, and exploring new cultures. 
 

Q:
What was your all-time, best-ever Halloween costume?
A:

Danielle Steel, with book in hand

Q:
Do you collect anything?
A:

I have a good collection of skis and bikes.

Q:
What are three items that are on your bucket list?
A:

Ski at Chamonix, ride at Whistler Bike Park, bike pack in Italy

Q:
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
A:

Slalom water skiing

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Jennae Smith
Meeting and Incentive Manager
Jennae Smith: Meeting and Incentive Manager

Jennae Smith has 13 years of experience overseeing events of all sizes, ranging from 2 to 23,000 attendees. Jennae has extensive experience in registration management, marketing communications, onsite management, and custom merchandising. She excels at organizing complex projects and building relationships with clients to produce thoughtful, custom programs. Jennae's blend of creativity and practical thinking ensures entertaining, unique, and impactful events that leave a lasting impression. 

Q:
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A:

I didn’t realize it until I was in high school, but I was born to do event management. Even as a little kid, I would plan my own birthday parties down to the minute, complete with themed decor and games I would make up.

Q:
Have you ever had a nickname?
A:

Only recently when I started playing roller derby: Hell’s Belle.

Q:
What's the most daring thing you've ever done?
A:

Skydiving over the Gold Coast in Australia.

Q:
Have you ever been told you look like a celebrity? Who? Do you agree?
A:

I've gotten Audrey Hepburn a lot. I definitely see a resemblance, especially when I’m on a Roman holiday. ;)

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Darlene Kuykendall
Meeting and Incentive Manager
Darlene Kuykendall: Meeting and Incentive Manager

Darlene Kuykendall brings over 25 years of industry experience working with global corporations and executing nearly 100 events annually. With a background in her family's hospitality business and Certified Event Planner credentials since 2012, she possesses the ideal skill set to handle a wide range of events, including hybrid formats. Her responsibilities have included managing tradeshows, corporate retreats, leadership training sessions, client gatherings, and public presentations. 

Her hands-on experience has equipped her with a wealth of knowledge, allowing her to cater to the ever-evolving needs of her clients. Renowned for prioritizing clients and surpassing their expectations, Darlene's meticulous attention to detail and negotiation skills have earned her global recognition. Outside of work, she cherishes time with her family and enjoys traveling to enrich her personal experiences.
 

Q:
If you could go back in time to any era, which would it be?
A:

1920's in Europe. This decade was a fascinating period of cultural, social, and artistic revolution. It was a time of great economic prosperity, technological advancements, and significant cultural shifts. The Jazz Age was in full swing, women's rights were gaining momentum, and the fashion and flapper culture were liberating. It was an era of artistic innovation, with movements like Art Deco flourishing. Additionally, witnessing the aftermath of World War I and the dawn of the modern age would offer a unique perspective on history. 

Q:
Who is the coolest celebrity you’ve ever met?
A:

I would have to say Mark Hamill from Star Wars. I worked with him on a show called Sea Quest in the 90s and he was the nicest person one could ever imagine. He had some great stories from his time filming Star Wars. 

Q:
If you could share a meal with any 4 individuals, living or dead, who would they be?
A:

George Clooney, Barak Obama, Robin Williams & Mary Queen of Scotts

Q:
What is your most treasured possession?
A:

My family

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Kelly Glaspy
Meeting and Incentive Manager
Kelly Glaspy: Meeting and Incentive Manager

Kelly has over ten years of experience in event management, hospitality, and extensive experience in education, real estate, and photography. When planning an event, Kelly pays close attention to the details, the mood, and the atmosphere. Her favorite part of event planning is seeing it all come together and the guests enjoying what has been created. 

Kelly loves to travel – she’s visited multiple countries, has lived in over seven different states, and has visited all but two states in America. Currently living in Arizona, ironically, she loves the snow and enjoys all winter sports and activities! Kelly has a close-knit family of 4 and one furry member, a Bernadoodle named Teddy and she dreams of building a guest ranch complete with Mini Highland Cows! She also enjoys hiking, camping, horseback riding, kayaking, soccer, and traveling with her family.
 

Q:
What is your favorite thing about your career?
A:

I love to travel and see new places, but I also love creating something from scratch, such as an event, and seeing it through to the finale.

Q:
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A:

100% Marine Biologist. But in my 1st semester of college I got a D in Biology 101 and was in the remedial Chemistry class… so that was not going to happen. 

Q:
What’s your best meal ever?
A:

Good sushi with unique sushi rolls is the best!

Q:
Do you collect anything?
A:

I have collected turtles since I was a little kid. People would give them to me from all over the world. I have probably over 200 somewhere boxed away.

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Oscar Briones
Sales and Support Specialist
Oscar Briones: Sales and Support Specialist

Oscar is a Sourcing Specialist with over 15 years of experience in Operations. He has led teams that service accounts in both the Fintech and traditional banking industries. Holding a bachelor’s degree in business management, he loves rolling up his sleeves and getting involved in providing the best service possible. Oscar is dedicated to finding the best outcome, regardless of the circumstances, and is enjoying the opportunity to apply that experience to help create the best meeting and rewards programs. 

Beyond his professional pursuits, Oscar is an avid sports enthusiast with a particular passion for football. Previously residing in Denver, Colorado, he remains a devoted Broncos fan. Presently, his focus lies in supporting his two sons’ little league teams, though he occasionally participates in Flag Football tournaments himself.
 

Q:
What’s your best meal ever?
A:

Backyard barbequing. Doesn’t matter if it’s burgers, brats, or rib eyes. It's part food, part family hanging out together that makes it the best possible meal. 

Q:
Have you ever had a nickname?
A:

I had a growth spurt the summer after my freshman year, and a friend’s father started calling me “Big O”, and it has stuck with me ever since.

Q:
Have any “hidden talents”?
A:

I really enjoy doing crosswords, including completing the USA Today, and the NYT crosswords daily, as well as expert-level Sudoku puzzles. 

Q:
Who is the coolest celebrity you’ve ever met?
A:

John Madden. I had a friend who was broadcasting a Denver Broncos game for a Spanish radio station and invited me to the broadcast booth. I bumped into John Madden in the hallway. I got to shake his hand, and I had to be sure to thank him for his great video game. 

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Daniela Gonzalez
Marketing Support Specialist
Daniela Gonzalez: Marketing Support Specialist

Daniela González is the Marketing Support Specialist at TenDot. She has worked for various industries and companies around the world, bringing a wide variety of marketing skills, including social media management, content creation, email copywriting, editing, blogging, and graphic design. 

Dany’s job requires a healthy balance of creativity and analysis, which she thoroughly enjoys – and getting to see the results of a published product is her favorite part of the job. As a film enthusiast, Dany’s most cherished travel experience was visiting all the filming locations for ‘The Sound of Music’ in Austria. Outside of work, you can find her listening to music 95% of the time, reading epic fantasy stories, and drinking too many Chai Frappes.
 

Q:
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
A:

Teleportation – it would make traveling so much more convenient and fun!

Q:
What was your favorite toy as a kid?
A:

My Dorothy doll from ‘The Wizard of Oz´’ – I’ve always been fascinated by old Hollywood.

Q:
Who is the coolest celebrity you’ve ever met?
A:

I had the opportunity to meet Demi Lovato, and as someone who grew up watching Disney Channel, it was a very exciting day.

Q:
What’s the one thing you’ve waited in line the longest for?
A:

A concert. I stood in line for 7 hours, but I got to see my favorite rock band up close, just a few feet away from the stage. It was absolutely worth it. 

Our History

TenDot has been creating memorable experiences and strengthening human connections since 2005. We’ve partnered with organizations across the country and expanded our family by choice. While we’ve grown over the past few years, TenDot remains a boutique incentive and meeting management firm, working with less than 50 clients partners, allowing us to concentrate on each individual client’s needs and drive results. 

  1. June, 2005

    TenDot is founded in Lincoln, NE

  2. July, 2014

    Derrick Eells was named TenDot's President. 

  3. June, 2015

    TenDot named to the Inc. 5000 List of Fastest Growing Companies in America!

  4. October, 2015

    TenDot celebrated its 10-year anniversary and launched a nonprofit organization, OneTraveler, as part of the milestone.

  5. April, 2016

    Derrick A. Eells, President of TenDot, was recognized as an industry leader in Connect Corporate magazine’s “40 Under 40.”

  6. January, 2018

    TenDot has 100% client retention for the last three years. 

  7. April, 2018

    Our new website launched!

June, 2005

TenDot is founded in Lincoln, NE

July, 2014

Derrick Eells was named TenDot's President. 

June, 2015

TenDot named to the Inc. 5000 List of Fastest Growing Companies in America!

October, 2015

TenDot celebrated its 10-year anniversary and launched a nonprofit organization, OneTraveler, as part of the milestone.

April, 2016

Derrick A. Eells, President of TenDot, was recognized as an industry leader in Connect Corporate magazine’s “40 Under 40.”

January, 2018

TenDot has 100% client retention for the last three years. 

April, 2018

Our new website launched!

Different By Design

We’re intentionally boutique. We purposely work with less than 50 clients a year, because we want to give you and your program the attention and personalized service you deserve.

We’re hyper responsive. Your inquiries are answered in 24-hours or less.

We are Nebraska people with strong Midwest values. You get a partner you can rely on to do the hard work and always keep your best interest in mind.

We guarantee a stress-free experience for you! 

You get a partner who is familiar with your industry and will provide you the expertise needed to advance your program goals.

We become an extension of your team.

We’re with you every step of the way, from planning through execution, to celebrating your success.

When you’re working around the clock and awake late at night thinking about all the details as your event approaches, so are we!

We don’t take a one-size fits all approach with our clients. You choose to work with us for one or more customized services, or we can be your partner for all aspects of your event.

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