Pacific Market Center

Formerly Seattle Gift Center
The Premiere Gift Center in the Pacific Northwest
2000 through 2006

SITUATION

The owners of the Seattle Gift Center (before it became the Pacific Market Center) and the 100 showroom owners came to an agreement that the Independent Sales Association (the member organization comprised of the showroom owners) would take over show management and marketing for the building. I was brought in at this critical point to increase attendance, run the trade shows and increase visibility in the retail community. We created VIP programs for retailers that made them feel special and appreciated.

Director of Marketing and Event Manager

• Developed annual strategic marketing plans, including event management, marketing and public relations.
• Art directed all marketing pieces; designed themes for all events.
• Managed the volunteer Marketing, Show and Event Committees. Planned and attended monthly marketing meetings and other committee meetings as needed.
• Managed a $400,000.00 budget.
• Produced three annual gift shows and eight monthly events.
• Produced two annual building and products directories on an annual basis.
• Developed and produced Internal communications and monthly newsletters for members about marketing activities.
• Was laision with Baywest and the Western Exhibitors.
• Managed and negotiated prices with vendors, including printers, mailing bureaus, publishers, graphic designers, display designers and others.
• Provided strategic counsel to Board of Directors of the Independent Sales Association.

RESULTS

Increased attendance at shows by 22 percent at a time when similar shows in the US were experiencing decreased attendance. Built positive relationships with the building owners, Baywest, Western Exhibitors, producers of the Seattle, Portland and San Francisco Gift Shows®, the Independent Sales Association’s Board of Directors and the trade media.