Sarah Nonenmacher, 27, works in Long Beach, California, as a producer for projects and events at AKJOHNSTON. As a 2019 40 Under 40 honoree, Nonenmacher discusses her passion for the events industry.
*Connect with Nonenmacher on Instagram.
What I do: I produce brand experiences and events. From concept ideation through execution and post-event closeout I ensure my client’s goals are met on time and within budget. All of this is done with an added “cool-factor” that leaves both guests and clients with a lasting memorable experience.
How I got here: Five years of hard work in the experiential marketing industry at both medium and small start-up agencies has led me to my current role at AKJOHNSTON.
Greatest career accomplishment: I successfully produced a live fashion show and after party after unexpectedly needing to switch venues 36 hours prior to show time. Of course, it was an all-nighter making the last-minute changes in logistics, but in the end, the show went on flawlessly, with zero budget implications!
Impressive stats: Over the course of the past five years, I’ve spent working in this industry I have worked on more than 150 events/activations. In 2016, I traveled more than 75,000 miles via air (only counting one airline).
Specific improvement I’ve made: I am glad to have implemented an internship program at AKJOHNSTON. Coming from a background of starting in this industry as an intern myself, I cannot express enough how impactful and beneficial this is on both the company’s end as well as the student’s end. Throughout my career, I’d estimate I’ve trained nearly more than 30 interns. Teaching the next generation is very important to me.
What I do outside of work: When I can make time for it in my busy schedule, I enjoy hot yoga—it allows for a relaxing and soothing stress relief. Additionally, I am the team captain of The Volley Llamas, a team in a local recreational volleyball league! Lastly, I spend most of my free time taking on more work designing and coordinating weddings.
