Melissa created EMERGE to showcase local artists' talents through performances and art displays. The first event in 2007 had 60 guests and featured music, art, and an international cafe. She learned to hire a photographer. The second event grew to 100 guests and added more art and musical acts. The third event in 2008 had 120 guests, two music stages, improved art, dancers, and spoken word after auditions became necessary. Melissa enlisted more volunteers to help the event grow and create a unique experience.

1. Event Planning PortfolioEMERGEMelissa Franklin

2. EMERGE: The VisionEMERGE was created to incorporate my love of the arts with my desire to showcase the talent of my peers.I wanted to create an opportunity for local artists to be seen and heard and for the public to have a unique, multifaceted experience.

3. 1st Show: Spring 2007Size: approx. 60 guests

4. Features: Musical Performances; Art Displays; International Café

5. What I Learned: Hire a photographer! With all the planning and the great reception, one regret was that I did not ensure the event was properly recorded.2nd Show: Fall 2007Size: approx.100 guests

6. Added Features: Expanded Art Gallery; Live Art Creation

7. What Changed: Larger venue; more art to display; more musical acts

8. What I Learned: We needed a more polished look and more variety.Spring 2007: Art Gallery and Live Art Creation

11. Fall 2007: Music

13. Fall 2007: International Cafe

14. 3rd Show: Spring 2008Size: approx. 120 guests

15. Added Features: 2 Music Stages with distinct environments; Improved Gallery experience; Dancers; Spoken Word

16. What Changed: Interest was growing; auditions became necessary

17. What I Learned: In order to grow, I needed more help, so I enlisted many more volunteers. The added show variety rounded out the event and created a truly unique experience.Spring 2008:Art Gallery

20. Spring 2008: Spoken Word

22. Spring 2008:Music – Acoustic Lounge

24. Spring 2008: Dancers

26. Spring 2008: Music – Main Stage

29. Future of EMERGE…I hope to continue the vision of EMERGE in my future projects.

30. Other ExperienceEvent Marketing Using a Variety of Methods (including internet, print media, and social networking)Designing Physical Layouts for EventsManaging Teams/ Delegating ResponsibilitiesCoordinating Trips and RetreatsCoordinating Social Gatherings Leading Small GroupsTrainingScheduling/ Maintaining a CalendarInitial Budgeting and Planning of WeddingsPricing/ Financial Management/ Budgeting

31. Contact InformationMelissa Franklinemergent.talent@gmail.comhttp://www.linkedin.com/in/eventsbymelissafranklin