Sarah Lutz, CMP

Experience

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  Stop 50 Wood Fired Pizzeria

  Jun 2007 - Aug 2009

  Hostess

  Made sure that front of the house operations ran smoothlySeated customers and helped with anything that was needed for customers to have a great experience

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  Toast Hotel Group

  May 2012 - Aug 2012

  Food and Beverage Intern

  -Completed a rigorous food and beverage management training program-Developed supervisory and teamwork skills by leading team of associates through several successful meal services

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  Lafayette Central Catholic High School

  Aug 2012 - Nov 2012

  Freshman Volleyball Head Coach

  -Head volleyball freshman coach and assistant varsity coach-Plan practices, create line-ups, encourages teamwork and bonding between teams-Foster and enhance overall sense of confidence and teamwork amongst players-Completed a full transition from player to coach, instilling confidence and leadership skills inmyself

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  Purdue University

  Jan 2013 - May 2014

  -Promoted from catering to work directly with customers-Developed, planned, marketed and executed events, meetings and weddings -Gained experience using Delphi Sales and Catering software -Train new employees to ensure retention and maximum performance-Cater to different events hosted in the Purdue University Union-Efficiently serve guests ensuring high guest satisfaction -Set up and break down for all events

  • Events and Catering Intern

    Nov 2013 - May 2014

  • Catering Trainer

    Jan 2013 - Nov 2013
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  Mariano's

  Jun 2014 - Aug 2021

  -Plan and manage all external Mariano’s sponsored events through paternships with local organizations such as the James Beard Foundation Awards, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, Chicago Gourmet, and the Chicago Bulls-Trusted leader serving on critical projects and assignments with a growing company-Create content and coordinate all social media platforms for the company which consists of 44 locations across the Chicagoland area-Increased sales and consumer experience metrics through social media and marketing campaigns-Forge connections with local food vendors to support small businesses with in-store food demonstrations Show less

  • Corporate Events & Social Manager

    Jun 2015 - Aug 2021

  • Events & Merchandise Manager

    Jun 2014 - Jun 2015
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  Wounded Warrior Project

  Jan 2022 - now

  • Support Wounded Warrior Project Programs team in executing meetings and events for warriors and staff, handling logistics such as site selection, rate negotiation, catering, and on-site event support.• Negotiate rates with vendors, including hotels, ground transportation, and audio-visual companies, ensuring cost-effective solutions.• Create event menus and negotiate pricing and contract details with catering companies, optimizing resources and donor dollars.• Build out detailed timelines, agendas, and activities, ensuring smooth event execution.• Utilize registration software such as Cvent and Salesforce to source venues, monitor registrations, manage budgets of up to 2 million dollars per year, and generate reports.• Facilitate communications among the Travel & Events and other Wounded Warrior Project teams, collaborating effectively with registration and travel teammates.• Manage and prioritize multiple events, adapting to challenging situations promptly and effectively.• Participate in events and meetings marketing efforts as appropriate, representing the organization professionally.• Perform recordkeeping tasks using registration software, ensuring accurate and comprehensive documentation.• Conduct contract and invoice reviews for events, ensuring compliance and cost-effectiveness.• Perform event close-outs with detailed summaries, including budget reviews and distribution of feedback surveys for continuous improvement. Show less

  • Event Planning Specialist

    Apr 2024 - now

  • Event Planning Specialist

    May 2023 - Apr 2024

  • Event Planning Specialist

    Jan 2022 - May 2023