I’m an experienced event planner and curator of unique experiences with over 20 years in project management, destination management, and festival direction. I craft strategic event plans that connect business goals with memorable experiences, while keeping risk management and seamless execution at the forefront. I thrive on creative problem-solving and collaborative partnerships, turning unforeseen challenges into innovative solutions. From intimate corporate gatherings to large-scale conferences, I bring professionalism, attention to detail, and a client-first mindset to every project.

Sara Heald

I’m an experienced event planner and curator of unique experiences with over 20 years in project management, destination management, and festival direction. I craft strategic event plans that connect business goals with memorable experiences, while keeping risk management and seamless execution at the forefront. I thrive on creative problem-solving and collaborative partnerships, turning unforeseen challenges into innovative solutions. From intimate corporate gatherings to large-scale conferences, I bring professionalism, attention to detail, and a client-first mindset to every project.

Available to hire

I’m an experienced event planner and curator of unique experiences with over 20 years in project management, destination management, and festival direction. I craft strategic event plans that connect business goals with memorable experiences, while keeping risk management and seamless execution at the forefront.

I thrive on creative problem-solving and collaborative partnerships, turning unforeseen challenges into innovative solutions. From intimate corporate gatherings to large-scale conferences, I bring professionalism, attention to detail, and a client-first mindset to every project.

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Experience Level

Expert

Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Owner, Chief Creative Officer at Sara In The City LLC
August 1, 2021 - Present
Lead strategic event planning for corporate conferences, product launches, and special events. Responsible for risk management, budgeting, vendor management, concept development, and on-site supervision. Build client partnerships, design experiences, and ensure seamless execution from concept to wrap. Guide teams with creative problem solving to deliver high-impact events aligned with client goals.
Account Manager at iDesignMeetings
May 1, 2018 - May 1, 2020
Led a local team of four in designing and producing unique experiences for 1 to 1500 attendees. Worked with client teams to identify goals, designed impactful experiences using regional resources, managed budgets, built partnerships, and up-sold related products. Consistently earned four-star post-project reviews and achieved revenue goals.
Senior Account Manager at Spry
April 1, 2016 - May 1, 2017
Managed strategic marketing projects for B2C clients in retail, medical, finance and law. Led teams to execute digital and traditional marketing efforts, analyzed ROI, and maintained client relationships. Key achievements included revenue growth on client accounts, website redesign projects, and award recognition for digital work.
Festival Director at Earth Day Houston
March 1, 2012 - June 1, 2015
Directed all festival efforts for Earth Day Houston, managing exhibitors, contractors, sponsorships, and content for a 15,000-attendee event. Grew organization size and budget, expanded festival offerings, and led branding and development initiatives. Recognized with Mayor’s Proud Partner Award in 2015.
Manager, Global Accounts at HelmsBriscoe
January 1, 2008 - March 1, 2012
Located, development, and maintained client relationships for hotel site selection worldwide. Managed office systems, and mentored a team of 40. Promoted to Resident Systems Trainer to support training and development.
Account Manager at Destination Services Colorado & Visit New Orleans
October 1, 2005 - December 1, 2008
Oversaw 45 accounts and managed $850,000 in revenue with a 38% profit margin. Facilitated meetings for international clients and ensured high-quality service delivery.

Education

Destination Management Certified Professional (DMCP) at DMCP Certification
January 11, 2030 - April 28, 2026

Qualifications

National NACE ONE Award for Event Design and Execution
June 1, 2019 - April 28, 2026
Mayor's Proud Partner Award (Earth Day Houston)
April 1, 2015 - April 28, 2026
First staff to receive DMCP certification
January 11, 2030 - April 28, 2026

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Travel & Hospitality, Professional Services, Non-Profit Organization