Kelli Trumbull, CMP
Assistant Director of Conference Services, Stonewall Resort
ktrumbull@stonewallresort.com
Number of events in 2025: 525
Types of events: Conferences, retreats, weddings, reunions, galas, fundraisers
Average number of attendees in 2025: 75-100
What is your role associated with meetings and events?
I supervise the planning, concierge, and setup teams, and plan, coordinate, and execute all aspects of group events, conferences, meetings, and other functions held at the resort. I serve as the key operational/managerial link between sales, banquets, F&B, facilities, and other departments to ensure client satisfaction, smooth logistics, staffing, budget compliance, and high service standards.
What skills do you think are essential for planning successful meetings and events?
Organization is the foundation; without it, nothing runs smoothly. Just as important are flexibility and strong communication. Every event has its moving parts, and things don’t always go according to plan. Being able to pivot, keep a level head, and communicate clearly with clients, vendors, and team members is critical.
Creativity is another essential skill, especially when you want to elevate an event from good to truly memorable.
What is your philosophy or approach to challenges and unexpected issues?
I see challenges as part of the job—and part of the fun. My philosophy is to stay calm, evaluate the issue quickly, and tackle the problem with confidence. While I always have a backup plan, I’ve also learned to think on my feet. Often, your attitude determines whether a hiccup becomes a disaster or just a small detour.
How do you keep up with industry trends, changes, and cutting-edge developments?
I keep up with professional organizations like MPI and regularly attend industry webinars. I also follow key event influencers online and stay current with trade publications.
That said, some of the best insights come from our own guests. By listening to their feedback and evolving preferences, we often spot trends before they become widespread.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The moment when everything comes together and months of planning come to life: The lights are set, the guests are arriving, and the energy in the room is just electric. Having a hand in creating something that brings people together or celebrates something meaningful is really special. Every event is different, so there’s always something new to learn and love.
How would you describe your biggest professional success?
One of the most creative meetings we organized at Stonewall Resort was a corporate leadership retreat for a technology company that requested a “walking meeting” experience, something that would spark creativity and take full advantage of our natural surroundings.
We curated a custom itinerary, including guided brainstorming sessions on our scenic lakeside trails, breakout discussions held aboard a private pontoon boat on Stonewall Jackson Lake, and teambuilding exercises in the wooded outdoor amphitheater. Even meals were intentionally unconventional: picnic-style working lunches on the patio and a fireside dinner with a live cooking demo by a local chef.
The client said it was the company’s most productive and inspiring meeting, and has since made it an annual tradition.
Please share an anecdote about a unique or unusual event that you organized.
One of my favorites was a corporate leadership retreat where the client wanted something outside the norm. We created a Survivor-themed team challenge across the resort grounds, complete with obstacle courses, riddles, and even a mock tribal council by the lake. It was fun and quirky, and really brought out the team’s creative side. They talked about it for months afterward.
What is the best professional advice you ever received, and what advice would you offer others in the industry?
The best advice I’ve received is “Plan for perfection, prepare for change.” It taught me that excellence is about being thorough, but true professionalism is revealed when things shift.
My advice to others? Build relationships, stay curious, and never stop learning. Event planning isn’t just about logistics; it’s about people. If you listen well and treat everyone with respect, you’ll go far.
What do you hope to achieve or look forward to as you plan events in 2026?
I’m excited to focus even more on sustainability and wellness. More groups are asking for events that reflect their values—whether that’s through eco-friendly practices, healthier menus, or mindfulness breaks.
We’re also exploring technology integrations that make events more interactive and immersive. I’m looking forward to making our events not just successful but also meaningful.
