katkou

The Art of Event Planning: An Interview with Kat Kou of Events by Kat Kou

An Art World Expo Spotlight

By Alyssa Laube

Not all of the artists that attend the AWE are exhibiting. As a matter of fact, many of the ticket holders are artists who have come to admire the work of likeminded people in their city. One of those ticket holders was Kat Kou, whose experience as a makeup artist drew her to the Expo. Upon arriving at Science World, she “fell in love with the whole concept,” and later used her skill with makeup to work at one of Monika’s Halloween events.

It was this skill that brought her to other special events, where she got a behind-the-scenes look at how they were run. Before long, she found herself “fascinated with the creative process of event planning,” and she moved to Toronto to explore her passion. “Because I always enjoyed upbeat, social environments, starting an event planning company was easy for me,” said Kat, about starting up her business, Events by Kat Kou. Since it’s inception, the company has hosted “anything from Sick Kids fundraisers to wine and cheese nights, comedy functions, and speed dating events.” Recently, she planned an indie pop show at a local Toronto bar, and in the future, she will be planning Toronto’s Art World Expo.

“I chose to work with AWE for many reasons,” said Kat, about her involvement with the Expo. “For one, I am an artist myself and enjoy surrounding myself with creative environments. It’s definitely not your average art event, as they’re always upbeat, vibrant and full of talented people! It has been successful in Vancouver for years now and I want to see the event grow. I think that AWE’s going to be big in Toronto and I am honoured to be part of the success.”

Her high opinion of the Expo combined with her talent as an event planner should ensure that it’s a night to remember. “To be in the event planning business, you definitely have to be a people person. I have always enjoyed being around people, so having an energetic and bubbly personality will get you places,” said Kat, she she has it in spades.

“I have always taken pride in my events being unique. I do not believe in limiting myself and always find a way to collaborate with local talents,” she continued, about her approach with Events by Kat Kou. “ It could be something as simple as a staff party, but I always manage to make sure everyone has a good time. Guests are usually encouraged to dress up to match the theme of event, which always makes things a lot more fun!”

It will be exciting to see how Events by Kat Kou leaves its mark on the Art World Expo. The combination of a fantastic event with a fantastic event planner cannot disappoint, especially when both sides believe wholeheartedly in the cause they’re supporting. Stay tuned to learn about which direction the event is headed in, and watch http://www.katkou.com/ for other great ways to spend your day.