Maria Scott Email and Phone Number

Lead the planning and execution of high-end corporate, civic, and social events, ensuring exceptional member and guest experiences. Collaborate cross-functionally with the Catering Director, Executive Chef, and various teams to manage event logistics, from site visits and contract generation to post-event follow-up. Spearhead weekly operations meetings, maintain up-to-date banquet software, and oversee seamless communication across departments. Known for delivering service-minded solutions and driving process improvements that enhance event quality and client satisfaction.

As the Founder and CEO of Luxe Bounce, I lead the vision and strategy behind creating a premier luxury bounce house brand that redefines the event rental industry. In addition to providing innovative, high-quality products that elevate events, Luxe Bounce also offers Luxe Bounce Academy, where I teach entrepreneurs how to launch and scale their own bounce house businesses. Through the Academy, I share my expertise on business optimization, safety, marketing, and client satisfaction to help others succeed. Our private label application further allows businesses to align with our values of quality, safety, and creativity as they grow their own brands. I'm passionate about fostering connections within the industry and empowering other entrepreneurs to thrive.

I took on this role during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading the operation of Avalon on Ice at a high-end outdoor mall. Despite the uncertainties, I successfully built and managed a seasonal team, ensuring safe and smooth operations while maintaining high standards in a luxury setting.Led all aspects of the venue’s public operation, managing staff, inventory, and guest relations.Navigated the complexities of operating during the pandemic, refining my leadership and crisis management skills.

Led critical aspects of large-scale conference planning, from event timelines and speaker procurement to sponsorship strategies and on-site operations. Worked closely with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless coordination, budget management, and exceptional attendee experiences. Managed event websites and communications to provide attendees with up-to-date information.Though my time was cut short due to COVID-19, I demonstrated strong leadership and adaptability, maintaining communication with stakeholders and exploring virtual event solutions.

Managed sales and execution of upscale weddings, corporate events, and large social gatherings across the North Georgia territory. Consistently exceeded revenue goals through effective venue and event sales, including menu tastings, venue tours, and event planning.Sold and managed events from initial client engagement through execution, including running weddings and coordinating all logistics. Conducted site inspections, client presentations, and menu tastings, providing a seamless transition from sales to event execution. Built long-term relationships with clients, vendors, and venues while managing multiple events in a fast-paced environment.Developed detailed Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) to ensure smooth event operations. Proficient in Caterease, Word, and Excel for managing event logistics and tracking sales.

Launched and led the catering department, setting standards for operations, marketing, and sales. Expanded services to include weddings, which became a key revenue driver, helping achieve monthly sales goals.Sold catering services, built relationships with venues, and managed a client database to generate new business and repeat clients. Hired, trained, and managed the catering team, ensuring seamless event execution and high service standards. Developed marketing strategies and collaborated with management on budgeting and event planning to drive sales.

Managed the production and logistics of corporate events across the U.S., including roadshows, product launches, focus groups, and large conferences with budgets exceeding $650,000. Led end-to-end event production, from proposal development and vendor negotiations to on-site execution and logistics management. Oversaw venue and vendor selection, including AV, décor, catering, and webcast services, ensuring seamless event delivery. Developed and managed timelines, budgets, and task schedules to meet client goals and project deadlines. Collaborated with cross-functional teams from Account Services, Creative Services, and Production Services to ensure successful event outcomes.Traveled for site inspections, client presentations, and on-site event management.

As an Event Manager, I was responsible for planning and executing a wide variety of events, including conferences, weddings, trade shows, and corporate meetings, with attendees ranging from small groups to over 1,000 people. I served as the primary liaison between clients and facility departments, ensuring all aspects of event logistics were handled smoothly from the initial planning stages through to execution and event closeout.I managed all event logistics, including coordinating vendors such as A/V, performers, photographers, and florists, while also creating and overseeing event layouts using AutoCAD. My role included supervising staff, ensuring operations ran efficiently, and maintaining strong relationships with clients, vendors, and exhibitors. I also prepared cost estimates, monitored final billing, and provided regular updates to clients on deadlines, floor plans, and event requirements to ensure client satisfaction and successful event outcomes.

As the sole Reservations Coordinator for a large hotel, I managed reservations, room blocks, and logistics for events ranging from small meetings to conventions with over 8,000 attendees. I established strong professional relationships with corporate clients and meeting planners, working closely with the Revenue Management, Event Management, and Convention Services teams to ensure flawless event execution.I was responsible for building and maintaining SRPs through OnQ R&I and GroupMax by Passkey, coordinating rooming lists, managing inventory, and ensuring that all group needs were met according to contract specifications. I handled all group reservation requests, changes, and cancellations, while balancing inventory and monitoring cutoff dates. Additionally, I prepared comprehensive group histories, billing information, and VIP details to ensure a smooth experience for guests.Though I loved this role and the fast-paced, collaborative environment, I relocated to Indiana after meeting my now husband. Otherwise, I would have remained with Doubletree, where I enjoyed the opportunity to make every event a success.

My passion for hospitality was sparked in this role, where I provided exceptional guest service and led the front desk team to ensure smooth operations and adherence to hotel policies. Under the guidance of strict but inspiring supervisors, I learned the importance of professionalism, attention to detail, and consistently delivering the highest level of service to guests.In addition to processing check-ins, check-outs, and reservations, I supervised and trained front desk staff to maintain hotel standards and achieve guest satisfaction. I collaborated closely with other departments, such as Marketing, Food and Beverage, and Housekeeping, to ensure guest needs were met and the overall guest experience was seamless. I also monitored room availability, applied proper selling techniques to maximize revenue, and handled daily financial reports, including balancing revenue and closing the financial day for the hotel.This role laid the foundation for my career in hospitality, instilling in me the importance of leadership, service excellence, and teamwork.