Our History

The History of ILEA St. Louis

In January 1996, a group came together and focused on the information of an organization that would benefit various disciplines of the event industry. The purpose of this new organization would be to bring education, networking and ethics to the local industry.

Our Founders:

  • Bob Bargen, Bob Bargen Productions

  • Jackie Biondo, The Saint Louis Club

  • Patsy Hall, Dick Hall Productions

  • Nardi Hobler, Party Arts

  • Judi Keith, BJC Health System

  • Mason Schott McMullin, Party Planner Inc.

  • Carole Miller, IMM St. Louis

  • Bonnie Andrews Nentwig, The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis

  • Paul Nix, Nix & Associates

  • Pat Schaumann, IMM St. Louis

  • Virginia Trent, Virginia R. Trent Special Events

The group spent many hours discussing and writing a business plan. The plan would be the heart and soul of the organization and the resultant documents would determine acceptance in the parent (formerly ISES - International Special Events Society) ILEA organization.

The plan included the election of the management team, the projected financials, benefits of membership, a marketing plan, the public image and reputation, the formation of a Board of Directors, target markets for membership and strategies.