All things hospitality, with a focus on events and operations

The Curated By Perspective

Written by Parker Pridgen

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Person researching event venues and comparing options on a laptop

The Bidding Platform

Entrepreneurship

I couldn’t find a platform to streamline pricing and availability on the consumer end, so I built it myself.

Jul 29, 2026

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Cozy restaurant dining room decorated for the holidays with a Christmas tree and festive lights

The Guide to Holiday Parties

Event Strategy

What is it, Christmas in July?

Every year it goes the same way. Someone sends a Slack message in October asking who’s handling the holiday party.

Jun 18, 2026

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Real estate sold sign with multiple offers in a suburban yard, used as a visual analogy for event venue sourcing

There’s an Agent for That

Event Strategy

In real estate, rarely do people directly approach a seller and coordinate their own purchase agreement.

Jun 3, 2026

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Two bartenders in red aprons polishing glassware behind a restaurant bar before a private event

Is the Venue You Picked Good at Events?

Event Strategy

HAVING a private room and EXCELLING at events are two very different things.

Most venues will never tell you that. So I will.

May 4, 2026

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Upscale bar and lounge with floor-to-ceiling city views and warm ambient lighting set up for a private event

Event Pricing Isn’t Fixed.

Event Strategy

Most people assume the numbers a venue sends over are the numbers. A minimum spend, a room rental, a package rate. Fixed, non-negotiable, take it or leave it.

They’re almost never that simple.

Apr 21, 2026

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Event venue setup with tables and greenery interior, promoting curated venue sourcing instead of searching online

Why You Should Stop Searching for Venues

Event Strategy

Finding a venue for a private event sounds straightforward until you’re actually doing it.

Apr 2, 2026

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Man holding takeout containers and pointing to a “Be Kind Please Don’t Litter” sign outdoors at night, representing accountability and doing things the right way even when no one is watching

3 Things I Wish I Knew Starting a Business

Entrepreneurship

Thinking about starting your own business?

Here are 3 things I learned in my first year that may be helpful before you decide to make the jump.

Mar 20, 2026

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Wooden mannequin pushing a crumpled paper ball uphill on a chalk-drawn slope, representing effort, consistency, and perseverance

Consistency Is the Job

Hospitality & Design

Consistency in hospitality and why showing up on the days you don’t feel like it is often the work that matters most.

Mar 12, 2026

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Three friends riding in a convertible singing with a keyboard, referencing the nostalgic Free Credit Report commercial about “free” services.

The Cost of Free in Hospitality

Hospitality & Design

A reflection on the value of free service in hospitality and the long game of building trust.

Mar 2, 2026

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Guests reviewing a restaurant menu at the table while deciding what to order before a meal.

When More Options Become a Problem

Event Strategy

How too many event menu options can slow decisions and why clearer guidance often leads to faster bookings.

Feb 25, 2026