CEMA Newsletter: December 2024

Member Spotlight: Erika Brunke, Remarkable Experiences

As a CEMA member since 1991, Erika has strived to foster a strong and supportive community. Learn more about her career shifts, her insights on the present and future of event marketing, and the contributions she’s made to the CEMA community.

Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got involved with CEMA?

After a rewarding 30-year career on the client side, collaborating with tech leaders such as Apple, Google, Microsoft and Dell, I embarked on a freelance journey in 2022.

Today, I specialize in designing and executing high-impact executive and VIP events and experiences. Whether as standalone experiences or as an integral part of broader programs, I am committed to delivering memorable events that leave a lasting impression.

I am passionate about empowering individuals and am proud to be a workshop facilitator for #IamRemarkable, a global initiative dedicated to helping people recognize and celebrate their achievements in the workplace and beyond.

I’ve been committed to CEMA’s charter since joining in 1991. As a dedicated Board Member and later as Executive Director for 5 years, I’ve consistently strived to foster a strong and supportive community for all members. I’m proud of the significant contributions I’ve made to CEMA’s success over the years.

You do a lot of coaching work focused on the importance of self-promotion – tell us what that means to you and why it’s so important.

The key to effective self-promotion lies in finding the right balance. It’s about being genuine and respectful while highlighting your accomplishments. We can’t expect others to know what we’ve achieved, so it’s important to share our successes. By doing great work and then talking about it confidently, we can elevate our careers and build strong professional relationships.

Can you share a memorable way that being a CEMA member has expanded your network or created new professional opportunities?

I’m committed to ongoing professional development and networking. CEMA has been a significant part of my career journey. A particularly impactful moment was at the 1994 CEMA Summit on Coronado Island. A casual conversation around a beach bonfire with the Microsoft events team sparked a connection that led to my relocation to Redmond, WA, and the opportunity to join their team.

What are you currently learning about (either professionally or personally)?

No surprise, AI and Machine Learning. Leveraging AI to personalize attendee experiences, automate tasks, and analyze event data for future improvements.

What are you most passionate about outside of work?

Family – my husband and I moved to our dream home in Texas a few years ago. My two sons, who are both in the events industry at Freeman and Encore, live just a short drive away. We love spending time together and it’s always fun to swap stories about our experiences.

What is the best piece of advice someone has given you?

The only way to do great work is to love what you do.

As an industry leader, what challenges do you see on the horizon for the events industry, and how can event professionals collaborate to turn those challenges into opportunities?

Burnout has become a prevalent topic in the events industry, especially as conversations around mental health gain more openness. The fast-paced, demanding nature of our work, with its long hours and tight deadlines, can take a toll on our well-being. To combat burnout, building a strong team that prioritizes open communication and mutual support is crucial. By creating a supportive work environment, we can mitigate the effects of stress and foster a more fulfilling career in the events industry.

Connect with Erika on LinkedIn and learn more about #IamRemarkable

Erika will also be moderating our upcoming CEMA Connects: Navigating the Shift: From Corporate to Freelance.