Amber Effect Events

Last week at the Philanthropy in Action Celebration in Fredericton, more than 450 guests gathered to celebrate generosity, community, and impact.

Events like this are a reminder that behind every seamless guest experience is thoughtful planning, operational precision, and hundreds of small decisions that help people feel welcomed and connected.

From accessibility considerations to sustainability efforts and behind-the-scenes logistics, these are the details that shape meaningful events - whether it’s a community gala, employee appreciation event, or leadership retreat.

I shared a few reflections on what large-scale events can teach us about creating better experiences for guests, teams, and communities.

👇 Read the blog (link in comments)

Most organizations don’t have an event problem. They have a connection problem.

Corporate events aren’t just about filling seats, checking boxes, or making things “look good.” They’re about what happens *between* people.

The conversations that weren’t supposed to happen… but did.

The handshake that becomes a partnership.

The team member who finally feels seen.

The client who walks away thinking, “Okay… these are my people.”

That’s the part of event strategy most people miss. Because anyone can book a venue. But creating a space where people feel connected, valued, and part of something bigger?

That’s where the real magic - and the real ROI - lives.

At Amber Effect Events, that’s always been the goal:

Not just organized events.

Not just beautiful rooms.

But experiences that build trust, culture, and community long after the chairs are stacked.

What’s one event you’ve attended that actually made you *feel* something?

👇 I’d love to hear about it.

I am still reflecting on the incredible energy from the Night of Influence awards gala. Terri-Ann Richards designed these awards to shine a light on the women doing the heavy lifting behind the scenes, and being recognized as a finalist was a deeply meaningful experience. As someone who spent my childhood as the "new kid" trying to find a place to belong, being seen by this community is the greatest win I could ask for.

I want to extend a warm congratulations to the category winners: Sarah Sherman for her vital systems-change work with We're Here For You Canada, Chalena Biggar for her leadership in safety at Cooke Aquaculture, and Silvia Borsic for her powerful double-win. Standing alongside finalists like Renée Charron, Claire Kelly, Kirstin Shortt, and Amy Graham reminded me that New Brunswick is rich with leaders who lead with both strength and heart.

This spirit of support is carrying me straight into a big milestone today. I have officially moved into the final Top 5 group round for the Entrepreneur of Impact awards! Your daily votes have kept me in 1st place, and if we can hold that spot until Thursday night, I head to the Quarter Finals. The chance to win $25,000 to invest back into our community impact and receive mentoring from Daymond John would be a dream come true for Amber Effect Events.

Thank you for seeing me, for voting, and for believing in the power of community and connection. The link to vote is in the comments!