Leading Your Vision—in Music Festivals & Live Events
The energy of a live audience is electric, and it drives me to create unforgettable moments that leave a lasting impact. I deliver these movements by taking the time to listen, get to know the audience, and personalizing experiences that truly resonate!
For over a decade, I've combined passion and creativity with operational precision to bring major music festivals to life. I’ve learned to manage the needs of the 500+ people involved in creating these events, working with industry leaders like AEG, Goldenvoice, Danny Wimmer Presents, Insomniac, Live Nation, and Disco Donnie Presents, C3. With a calm, take-charge attitude, I ensure every detail is executed flawlessly. I’m known for providing personalized hospitality that keeps quality high and ensures guests have an unforgettable experience. Artists and attendees still thank me for taking care of them, making sure they feel valued, and helping them enjoy every moment.
As Director of Production for BeachLife Festival, I led 50+ artists, 250+ crew, and 20+ vendors, managing multi-million-dollar budgets and complex logistics. On the final night of the festival in May 2024, with ZZ Top on stage, we were hit with hazardous winds, requiring an immediate evacuation of 18,000 attendees and 3,000 staff and crew. I worked closely with the Redondo Police Department to ensure safety, maintain clear communication, and manage a calm, organized response—even as the event was canceled.
Live Events
Each year, I manage over 100+ high-profile live events, from fundraisers, conferences to executive luncheons, performance one-offs, award shows, esports, soccer, MLB, NBA. With a 98% client satisfaction rate, I consistently deliver results on time and under budget.
At the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, I led 12 partnership activations, driving revenue and elevating the event with interactive booths and impactful brand messaging.
Crafted unforgettable VIP experiences for top artists such as Bruno Mars, U2, Pitbull & Enrique Iglesias, Metallica, and more, managing over 450 guests per night. Every event I lead raises the bar, ensuring exceptional experiences from start to finish.
Always Implementing Safety & Risk Management:
Example: I conduct thorough site evaluations pre-construction to identify potential hazards, ensuring a flawless safety record throughout production. By developing customized preparedness plans that address various environmental conditions, I guarantee the safety and efficiency of every event.
Mentorship Program:
Example: I introduced a structured mentorship program that pairs junior staff with seasoned leaders, fostering professional growth and knowledge transfer. This initiative has boosted employee retention by 50% and created a culture of continuous development, ensuring a strong, capable team that’s ready to take on any challenge.
Featured Projects: A Glimpse into My Work
What Others Say About Working With Me:
“We brought Melissa on as an Event Runner for our three-day organization-wide meeting to ensure that the staff event went smoothly. Not having been involved in the planning of this in-person meeting she familiarized herself with the run of the show, asked questions for clarity, made some good suggestions, and dived in. Her calm, take-charge, and can-do attitude exceeded our expectations. Her interaction with the staff and vendors was spot on and she was a pleasure to work with."
[Lori Hutchins, Chief Innovation Officer at Michelson Philanthropies]