Q&A with Super Bowl Events Expert, Kari Shisler, CSEP
Wednesday, January 31, 2018
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to plan a large-scale event like the Super Bowl? Kari Shisler, CSEP, not only owns an event design company in New Orleans, but she also works with Party Planners West to coordinate fan events and media for the Super Bowl. With this years’ Super Bowl right around the corner, we were excited to get some great insight from Kari on her experiences as a live event professional, and how her CSEP certification has helped her in her career. Read below to learn more about Kari.
Can you tell us what your role and responsibilities are for the upcoming Super Bowl?
Kari Shisler (KS): I am a contracted partner with Party Planners West who produce all of the fan areas for the Super Bowl on behalf of the NFL. My official title is operations manager. My role is to support the operations director. Specifically, I have been assigned to liaise with the entity that handles the NFL’s PR at the Super Bowl. This means coordinating every media outlet (local and national) that cover the Super Bowl Experience and Tailgate Party. In addition to the aforementioned duties, I also am also tasked with supporting the operations director in whatever comes up.
How specifically does your CSEP designation help you plan big events like the Super Bowl tailgate parties and NFL Experience?
KS: There are quite a few elements from pre-production, production and post-production phases of the CSEP outline that play out at this event. The outline itself has enriched my ability to see the big picture.
What advice would you give to live events professionals planning larger events?
KS: An ironclad system of organization and communication is absolutely essential. Additionally, while there is a fine line between thoroughness and paranoia, it never hurts to check, check and double check. Lastly, never be too proud to ask questions, and always maintain a sense of humor!
What are some live events trends you foresee coming to light in the next year?
KS: I predict there will be a big focus on the transition from the millennials to Generation Z who are right behind them. There are many differences between the two. Specifically, Generation Z has been identified as realistic, independent, private, face-to-face, role-hopping and global citizens, versus millennials who are considered to be more optimistic, collaborative, public, digital only, job-hopping and global spectators. If these traits remain accurate, they will unequivocally inform trends across the board.
Can you offer insider tips for what live event professionals should keep an eye on at this year’s Super Bowl?
KS: Look for a continuation of immersive technology. Although the game of football remains as hands-on as the exhibits found at the Super Bowl Experience, technology will continue to streamline and elevate the attendee experience.
How has having your CSEP helped advance your career?
Kari: Even with my 20+ years of production experience, the knowledge gained from the certification process has enhanced my overall confidence, not to mention the bragging rights of having those four letters after my name!
Would you recommend that other events professionals seek a CSEP certification? Why or Why not?
KS: Absolutely. I would say, “Rise to the challenge of this certification. There are benefits from a continued education in any field.” This is especially true of an event professional who works within an ever-changing industry.
Kari Shisler, CSEP, is the owner and founder of Event Design NOLA. She brings to the table an intimate knowledge of New Orleans and over 20 years of production experience with New York-, San Francisco- and Los Angeles- based clientele. Recent successes include a three-year executive directorship of the Oak Street Po-boy Festival, which attracts 50,000 attendees, and a continuing contract partnership with Party Planners West, producers of the Super Bowl Experience and Owner's Tailgate party for the National Football League.
Tags: CSEP