SH

Sara Heald

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.

About

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.

  • 18 years' experience
  • Joined April 2026

Skills· 1

Languages

  • EnglishFluent

Industry experience

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

Work experience· 6 roles

Owner, Chief Creative Officer · Sara In The City LLCAug 2021 – Present · 5 yrs 4 mos

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 · iDesignMeetingsMay 2018 – May 2020 · 2 yrs 1 mo

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 · SpryApr 2016 – May 2017 · 1 yr 2 mos

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 · Earth Day HoustonMar 2012 – Jun 2015 · 3 yrs 4 mos
Manager, Global Accounts · HelmsBriscoeJan 2008 – Mar 2012 · 4 yrs 3 mos
Account Manager · Destination Services Colorado & Visit New OrleansOct 2005 – Dec 2008 · 3 yrs 3 mos

Education

Destination Management Certified Professional (DMCP) · DMCP Certification2030 – 2026

Certifications and awards

National NACE ONE Award for Event Design and Execution2019 – 2026
Mayor's Proud Partner Award (Earth Day Houston)2015 – 2026
First staff to receive DMCP certification2030 – 2026

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