The city of New Orleans seems like a nonstop party in and of itself, with boisterous nightlife, a world-renowned music scene, and distinct cuisine. Planning some of the Big Easy’s most buzzed-about fetes within that atmosphere is the job of Natalie Angulo.
As associate director of events at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans and the director of 1718 Events, the property’s off-site event planning and catering service, she handles a jam-packed schedule of high-profile events like the New Orleans Museum of Art’s Odyssey Ball and Emeril’s Boudin Bourbon and Beer festival.
Named for the year in which New Orleans was founded, 1718 Events is a unique entity within the event industry; its team handles all aspects of the planning process, including venue selection, theme, menu development, decor, and entertainment, with the breadth and reach of a major hotel chain.
“Essentially we are operating a business within a business. It has its own marketing efforts, forecast, website, look, and brand, but, most importantly, it’s still Hyatt,” Angulo explains. “I am able to see our operation full circle, learn about city permits, stay in the know with our locals but still get exposure to our corporate clients.”
The 31-year-old, who started as a front-desk clerk at the Hyatt Regency Coral Gables in Miami, says that she works “closely with our leadership team in developing 1718 to its full potential and finding the best platform for it to fit within our hotel planning model.”
The next big project on Angulo’s agenda is the citywide art biennial Prospect New Orleans’ opening gala, which will take place in November. “Daily we are able to live the magic of parades and Mardi Gras events without having to wait for Fat Tuesday,” she says.
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