Getting To Know Christi Kluge

Meet Christi Kluge. Currently the Functions Manager at The Hotel Steyne she has also worked behind the bar and in the kitchen. She is always looking for ways to take an event to the next level and has the ability to think on her feet and give things a go. Happiest when fed with guacamole, hot sauce and beer, you can catch her at any of the festivals in Manly.

So join us as we get to know another amazing Event Pro, Christi Kluge…

Give us a snap shot of your career to date.

A degree in merchandising and business sent me into the fashion world of New York. There I was able to learn from the best on how to style and sell a product. Fast forward a few years and I was out of culinary school working as a chef at the Steyne. Here I’ve worked in the kitchen, managed a few bars, restaurants, and I’m now getting to organise the events I’d previously worked.

The most memorable event you have worked on and why?

I love the festivals we have around Manly and getting to be a part of those weekends is the best. I love the way that chefs, bartenders, servers, musicians and everyone in the venue can come together to create an event you’d hate to miss. My favourite part: the decorations. Gotta top last year!

What did you ‘learn the hard way’ when planning an event?

Very, very rarely does absolutely everything go according to plan, but that’s not always a bad thing. Sometimes the best ideas can come from a “think on your feet” moment.

What are three personality traits that are required to succeed in the events industry?

The ability to think outside the box, be personable, be passionate.

If you could share one piece of advice to those starting out in the industry what would it be?

Learn every side of the industry you can. Knowing what it’s like for those on the bar, the floor, the kitchen, can only make you better.

If you could plan an event anywhere in the world where would it be and why?

New Orleans; best food, best music, and they know how to make a drink.

Favourite type of food?

Anything served with hot sauce

How would your friends describe your job?

Random. I get to see and be a part of some pretty great things but this industry breeds, for a lack of a better word “individuality” so you never know what you’re going to walk into on a day here.

How do you unwind after a big event?

Beer please

Words to live by?

“Only one way to find out”

What is your biggest challenge at the moment?

Trying to explain to others the designs that are floating around in my brain.

When entertaining at home what do you cook?

Fajitas. I live for a good guac.

What do you prefer, cocktail party or sit-down dinner?

Cocktail, show off that dress!

What is your ideal holiday destination?

Sun and sand and I’m a happy girl.

Best fashion tip?

You can’t be pulling on a skirt or messing around with straps. If you’re not comfy in it now, you’ll hate it later.

Favourite party theme?

Prohibition

It’s event day – heels or flats?

Something in between, the beer after work will take away the pain.

Best event styling tip?

Balance is key. Play with different heights and texture.

Why do you love your job?

There’s always room to make something bigger and better.