Getting to know Hannah Bignold

Meet Hannah Bignold. Currently the Conference and Event Coordinator at Rydges World Square and The Cidery Bar and Kitchen she is also about to finish studying a Bachelor of Business majoring in Event Management. She knows how to put the “wow” into an event and will always be found on the dance floor if ABBA is playing. So join us as we get to know another event pro, Hannah Bignold…

Give us a snap shot of your career to date.

My part time jobs after my school life were in the Hospitality industry. I studied an Advanced Diploma in Hospitality- Majoring in Event Management at William Blue College in The Rocks. I have continued studying and I am hoping to finish my Bachelor of Business- Majoring in Event Management through Torrens University by July this year.

Throughout my tertiary studies I was fortunate enough to have a subject specifically dedicated to an Internship. I was a successful candidate in achieving and being able to undertake my internship at the National Rugby League in 2017 at Moore Park. Accomplishing over 600 hours of experience within the Events team, I learnt valuable skills and understandings associated with producing many large scale events for this multinational organisation.

In 2018 whilst having a part time job and studying online, I decided I was ready to take on a full time job in the event industry. I applied for every event job possible as I just wanted to be involved in creating memorable events. An opportunity arose at Rydges World Square who had a perfect spot for me and although I was rather hesitant at first due to no hotel experience,  I was ready and eager to learn all the skills to develop my career within the Hospitality Industry . My role definitely is a challenging role at times but I am thoroughly enjoying my time as an Event Coordinator and hopefully progress through the event industry in years to come.

The most memorable event you have worked on and why?

I would have to say a charity cocktail night for the Victor Chang Heart Research Organisation. It was organised in my first year of my degree with a team with of just six members, who had to organise an event from scratch. There were no funds, so we needed to seek as many donations as possible within our team. From the invites to finding a venue and prizes for the night, all  of the money raised went to our chosen charity. We shared a wonderful event with many guests and raised just under $5,000. It was such a rewarding event knowing our tireless efforts were going towards a great charity.

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

That you can never be too prepared. Also triple check final changes!! There are so many variables in hosting an event and being prepared and organised is critical.

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

Patience, reliability and self motivation.

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

Apply for as many jobs and internships as you can. The more you put yourself out there, the more experience you have, the more knowledge you will gain. You can’t buy experience and you never know what could be around the corner.  Enjoy all of the events- the successful ones and the not so successful ones- it will make you stronger and even more determined to have complete job satisfaction. Enjoy!

What song always gets you on the dance floor?

Mamma Mia – Abba

Favourite type of food?

I love food!!! But if I had to choose right now it would be Mexican!

How do you unwind after a big event?

Definitely put the feet up and watch some vlogs on YouTube or Netflix with a face mask on.

Describe yourself in two words?

Energetic and passionate.

Words to live by?

Everything happens for a reason.

What is your biggest challenge at the moment?

It would definitely being juggling full time studying online University and working full time whilst also trying to maintain  a social life, I’m still trying to get the right balance.

Where do you go for creative inspiration?

Instagram and YouTube

Best fashion tip?

Do not wear red and pink together it is a fashion no no and anything black is always my go to!!

What’s your drink of choice at an event?

Definitely a glass of Rose or a Vodka lime soda or a maybe a delicious mojito .. or maybe all of the above?

Best event styling tip?

Make sure it is something you would stop at as you scroll and is it Instagram worthy? If it doesn’t look good in your photos part of it needs to change! Sometimes less is better because if there is too much going on it gets too overwhelming and you won’t achieve the “WOW” you’re wanting.

What is the craziest request you have ever had when planning an event?

I once had a request if a client could bring a wombat and a koala into the hotel to show a school group from Japan… we had to politely decline the request.

If you weren’t working in events what would you do?

Either a paramedic or a nurse.