It’s always exciting when long-standing client relationships lead to new opportunities. Having planned the Marshall Bennett Institute of Real Estate at Roosevelt University’s annual gala for several consecutive years, Taylor Johnson was the go-to resource for the institute’s executive director, Collete English Dixon, when she needed assistance with an industry event she supports personally: the Diverse Developers Conference, an annual convening of underrepresented real estate developers from across the Midwest to exchange knowledge and resources.

As a follow-up to the inaugural Diverse Developers Conference, the event’s organizers were looking for ways to improve overall execution of the next year’s gathering, including the opening ceremony. Knowing the Taylor Johnson events team would be a great resource to tap, English Dixon, who sat on the organizing committee, asked TJ to assist with event strategy. Shortly after connecting with the team, TJ got to work providing various recommendations ranging from location and food vendors to the run of show.

The all-day conference was held at the beautiful Union League Club of Chicago, offering a welcoming space for connection and conversation. The event featured a continental breakfast, engaging sessions, a lunchtime keynote address, a “power hour” networking session, and an evening reception. Working on this new initiative exemplified how TJ’s deep client relationships can evolve into deeper partnerships — Taylor Johnson wasn’t just a vendor, but rather a trusted advisor brought in to help take a project to the next level.