New Member Spotlight - Malissa Cloven

Please welcome Malissa Cloven to MPI St. Louis. Malissa is the Owner and Creative Director at Vivant Entertainment where she has worked for the past six years. She has always been in the creative field having been a freelance photo stylist and professional talent for years (as a Marilyn Monroe impersonator). Malissa wanted to focus on her ability to create and allow others to take the stage which is exactly what she has done with Vivant Entertainment.

When asked what she enjoys most about her job, Malissa said, "On top of being creative, I get to provide a platform for many talents to let their light shine. We work with professional stage performers, ballerinas, actors and specialty talent in St. Louis and across the United States. Many struggle to support themselves and we love making a difference in their careers."

Malissa's expertise are black tie galas, fundraisers, corporate events, and private parties. Vivant Entertainment is expanding their market to create unique talent for trade shows, conferences, and conventions where they can bring attention to a company's brand and/or product.

When asked words of wisdom she has for other event planners, Malissa said, "Be open to new ideas and change as it is the way of our world with technology. Give creative people the room to create and think outside the box. Instead of just working with the same vendors over and over, be open to ideas from new vendors. Having a long list of resources on your roster gives you versatility and keeps it fresh and exciting for your clients."

In Malissa's free time, she loves to feed off the inspiration of anything artistic. She loves music, art, films and surrounding herself with creative opportunities as often as she can. She sings, is an artist and enjoys volunteering and working with the elderly.

Malissa has been a member of MPI St. Louis for one month and has joined the special events committee. She looks forward to putting her expertise to work in any way she can! Malissa's goal is to attend as many MPI events as possible and network with others in her field as well as start relationships with others in the community.

Please give Malissa a warm welcome to MPI St. Louis!