Building Better Marketing Events

Summer Haines brings a unique perspective to the marketing world, blending years of hospitality leadership with a deep understanding of what makes professional events memorable and valuable. In this episode, she talks about her path from food and beverage management to AMA San Diego, where she now helps create opportunities for marketers to connect, learn, and get recognized for their work. From intimate coffee meetups and mentorship programs to major events like Art of Marketing and the Sandie Awards, Summer makes it clear that marketing is broader, more collaborative, and more community-driven than many people realize. Her insights also reinforce an important point for professionals at every stage: strong marketing communities do more than educate, they open doors.

Key takeaways

  • Hospitality skills translate directly into great event experiences.
  • AMA San Diego supports marketers across industries and career stages.
  • Students and emerging professionals gain real value from exposure and recognition.
  • Art of Marketing and the Sandie Awards give marketers a platform to learn, connect, and celebrate their work.
  • Great marketing communities can lead to mentorship, job opportunities, and long-term growth.

Summer Haines – sandieawards.sdama.org