The Tea - Laura Matley

Meet new MPI member Laura Matley!

The Intro: Matley is the Manager, Business Events for Ottawa Tourism.

Laura Matley lives in Ottawa and shares that one of Ottawa’s secrets to success is the sense of community and inclusivity. Imagine you are walking near Parliament, near the Byward Market and you see that there are all types of different people and cultures represented in the restaurant and retail scene. There are also so many ways to experience the city too; you can be on a boat, be in a café or view the Rideau Canal from a bike!

First events? Matley first caught the event planning bug in high school (in St. Catharines) as a student council rep. One of her first events was junior prom, which was a tricky assignment because the low budget meant hosting in the gym. Resourcefully, Matley had to bring on the glam whilst being thrifty. One of her friend’s family owned the White Oaks Resort & Spa, so she roped them into doing the catering and borrowed their Christmas decorations.

Her first formal event planning job was a bit more upscale (and high pressure) as the Weddings Manager at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge (a step up from a gym!). Despite the high stakes, Matley loved being part of each couples’ special day and the emotion of it all.

Early aspirations: When Matley was young, she aspired to be a police officer. She unfortunately had to pivot to another career as her eyesight limited her ability to use a firearm. The silver lining is that she loves what she does now, can be a leader, and it’s a heck of lot less dangerous.

Outside of work: Matley is very active and loves to unwind by running, biking or swimming (and yes, the combo of all three for triathlons), this is her form of mediation and shutting off from work. She also enjoys time with at home with her two “fur babies” (cats)!

Fun Fact – a bit of a Brit! Matley is a first generation Canadian, her parents are from Manchester, England, and they moved to Canada when they were 27. Except for her immediate family, the rest of her family lives in the UK.

Top tip: Matley’s top tip for new planners/suppliers is to really focus on building relationships and building a reputation. This will then lay the foundation and open doors to new opportunities that will come your way.

Killer keynote? Matley said that if she could hire any speaker, it would be Michelle Obama. Having read her book, Matley is really inspired by learning about her childhood and then where she ended up in life.

One word: when asked, what word describe you – Matley’s answer was:

“Loyal!”

Be sure to say “hi” to new member Matley at the next MPI Ottawa event!

 Article edited by: Darlene Kelly-Stewart, Stonehouse Sales & Marketing Services