We’re shaking things up at Catersource this year and are thrilled to introduce the newest additions to our sales team – Lisa Brenna, CPCE and LaShara Darkenwald. Lisa is your new contact for exhibit and sponsorship sales, and LaShara is your go-to for all things media and digital! Catersource 2018 planning is already in full swing, and earlier this year, we unveiled our new digital advertising opportunities. LaShara and Lisa both bring culinary, event, and media expertise to their roles in order to enhance your digital exposure and tradeshow experience. Feel free to reach out to LaShara and Lisa directly to chat about the opportunities in greater detail (contact information listed below). You can also learn more about exhibiting at Catersource 2018 and digital advertising opportunities on our websites.
LaShara Darkenwald Lisa Brenna
5 questions, 2 sales reps… Let’s go!
Tell us a little bit more about your specific role and the Catersource opportunities you can offer to potential customers.
LaShara: My role as the Media Sales Rep is to create successful advertising campaigns through print and digital media that get results. In this growing online community, I love to educate on how effective digital advertising can be. My goal at Catersource is to provide the very best mutually beneficial service.
Lisa: As the new Catersource Tradeshow and Sponsorship Sales Account Manager, I can assist you in making #Catersource 2018 your best show yet—which really means I am here to help you with any ideas, interests, questions, and comments about available exhibit booths and sponsorship opportunities and events.
What’s your background prior to Catersource and what unique perspectives can you give customers?
LaShara: I have both digital marketing and professional catering experience. Understanding both sides of the spectrum really helps to create successful advertising campaigns and promote the Catersource brand.
Lisa: In a past life, I worked in many roles in the catering and events industry including: Banquet Server and Bartender, Convention Services and Banquet Manager, Catering Sales Manager and Director of Sales, Operations & Marketing. As a part of that life, I was introduced to Catersource and have been with the Catersource team since 2007. Since 2007, I was the contract Special Events Coordinator and am now thrilled to be here full time in the sales department, working with Dave Pruka and LaShara Darkenwald. I am excited to share that this year we are really thinking outside the box of the “normal” tradeshow sets, education sessions, events and competitions!
How do you prefer to be contacted?
LaShara: I am available by phone, but a fan of all things digital. Email is the best way to reach me.
Direct: 612.253.2033
Cell: 612.978.3952
Email: [email protected]
Lisa: I am a people person! Please call, email, text, Tweet and/or message me on LinkedIn!
Direct: 612.253.2023
Cell: 612.804.8943
Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @lisa_brenna
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lisabrenna/
What are you most excited for at Catersource 2018?
LaShara: This will be my first Catersource show, so I’m excited for everything!
Lisa: I am most excited to be a part of the exhibit floor energy and being able to visit with exhibitors, sponsors, attendees, and long lost industry friends! I loved working on the Catersource events. It was such an enjoyable challenge engaging with new sponsors, producers, venues and attendees each year. I know Catersource’s event coordinator Crystalyn Bauer will be great in continuing the events, as I move full time to guide the tradeshow’s bustling activities.
Tell us a fun fact about you!
LaShara: I interned at America’s Test Kitchen in Boston for 3 months as a test cook. You can see me on Season 12 making various versions of Rice Krispies treats, in participation of ATK’s Annual Rice Krispie Treat Competition.
Lisa: I have tried 100 out of the 100 foods on the foodie list challenge. I love trying new foods (and drinks)! Having Type 1 Diabetes for 30 years and counting, I have learned how to be able to eat and drink a little bit of everything, by sampling and still keeping my blood sugars in check!
