Crystal Haffner

About Crystal Haffner

I am a contract-based event strategist specializing in luxury, high-touch experiences for corporate and private clients. With over 17 years of experience in hospitality, design, and event production, I curate meaningful gatherings that blend beauty, connection, and strategy. I work with companies and individuals on a retainer or project basis to plan and execute: Executive and employee retreats, Corporate events and holiday parties, Themed experiences and family reunions, High-end corporate gifting and client engagement. My background includes leading event strategy as Director of Events & Hospitality for a corporate firm, where I produced over 30 external and 20 internal events annually, along with 400+ personalized gifts. Highlights include managing Indiana’s second-largest HR conference, producing award-winning virtual and live experiences, and helping drive record-high employee engagement and recognition as a Top Workplace. I also served as a Catering Sales Manager at Omni Hotels, where I sold and executed luxury weddings, corporate galas, and social events with meticulous attention to detail—owning every part of the process from vendor relationships to billing. In addition, I own: Eagle Point Lodge Indiana, a lakeside destination offering curated guest stays & Beauty by Crystal, a boutique brand offering makeup artistry and luxury event planning Whether you\'re planning a multi-day leadership retreat, building a year-round gifting strategy, or designing an elevated celebration, I bring polish, purpose, and heart to every detail. Let’s create something unforgettable. Cheers!

Experience

1. Catering Sales Manager

   Omni Hotels & Resorts

   Jul 2024 — Present · Indianapolis, IN, US

   Lead and manage our catering and event services for corporate gatherings, weddings, and social events. responsible for prospecting, developing, and nurturing client relationships, executing seamless events, and ensuring that every detail aligns with our high standards. Work closely with clients and internal teams to deliver extraordinary events• Generate new business through proactive outreach, networking, and relationship building with potential corporate and wedding clients. Manage the sales cycle from inquiry to booking, including contract negotiation, budget management, and upselling. Build and maintain relationships with existing clients to ensure loyalty and secure referrals. • Consistently exceeded catering sales goals, achieving 138% to 191% of targets every quarter, demonstrating exceptional sales acumen and client relationship management• Event Planning and Execution-Design and execute high-quality corporate events, weddings, and other social gatherings, ensuring alignment with client goals and vision. Collaborate with clients to understand event themes, catering preferences, and logistical requirements. Customize catering packages and develop detailed proposals that meet budget requirements and exceed client expectations. Work with operations and culinary teams to coordinate event logistics, including menu planning, staffing, and setup, ensuring flawless execution.• Administrative and Financial Oversight-Track and report on sales metrics, revenue targets, and client feedback to inform business strategy.• Ensure contracts, BEOs (Banquet Event Orders), invoices, and other paperwork are accurate and submitted on time. Collaborate with the finance team for payment collection and event budget management.• Marketing and Business Development- Develop strategies to attract new corporate and wedding clients and increase brand visibility.Represent the company at networking events, and industry gatherings to drive leads and maintain relationships.

Education

• Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising

  Merchandise Marketing

  2000 — 2002