Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/1499272
Meet the women behind Club Programs events and join an event planning committee. 36 WAC Magazine | wac.net Have you ever wondered what goes into planning a WAC event? From long-standing Club traditions like Jubilee and parent-child banquets to fresh and unique events, like game nights and watch parties in the 8th Floor Simulator, our Club Programs team works tirelessly behind the scenes to provide members with unforgettable experiences. Plus, WAC members can also get in on the event-planning fun! Read on to learn about our various member volunteer committees and meet our resident experts behind your favorite Club happenings. Q. What is your favorite event to plan? MARY ELLEN: Jubilee ROBINETTE: New Year's Eve AURORA: WAC Way Giving Tree Q. If you could take WAC members on a dream club event, where would you go and why? MARY ELLEN: I'd love a group trip to Europe. We could visit all of the reciprocal clubs! ROBINETTE: Adventure weekend at IslandWood, a non- profit environmental learning center on Bainbridge Island. We could learn about environmental stewardship, stay in incredible lodges, enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience, and much more. AURORA: Backpacking a world-renowned trail like Kili- manjaro in Tanzania or the W Trek in Chile's Patagonia region. I think hiking a tough trail is not only physically and mentally rewarding, but it also bonds people in an exceptionally unique and lasting way. Q. What's your favorite WAC event overall? MARY ELLEN: Jubilee. It takes eight months of meticu- lous planning and collaboration between all the WAC's departments! ROBINETTE: Also, Jubilee! AURORA: Father Daughter Banquet. It's an amazing tra- dition, and I love seeing the family bonding! Q. What's the hardest part about planning a successful event? MARY ELLEN: Sometimes it's at the very beginning. It's easy to get overwhelmed by the whole event and its ex- pectations, but I normally try to dive in and work through my checklist. ROBINETTE: Dealing with unanticipated issues hours before the event. While stressful, it can also be a great exercise in adaptability, creativity, and the ability to go with the flow. AURORA: e hardest part is accepting the fact that there are some things you just can't plan for! Q. What's your favorite part about event planning? MARY ELLEN: ere's so many things! But incorporating new and unique local vendors to give an event that extra special touch has to be one of my favorites. ROBINETTE: Seeing an event turn out even better than you envisioned! AURORA: I get the most satisfaction from introducing members to experiences, cultures, and foods they might otherwise not know of. Meet the Club Programs team When it comes to fun, our event planners are second to none