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About
When it comes to the juicy DMC gossip, it is no secret that our communication, internal processes, creativity, and relationships have established us to become the most respected DMC in Chicago. We are unique to other DMCs in that our team sells and operates each program. This means you will have the same dedicated teams from the initial planning call, through program operation, onto final billing, and most importantly, to the post-con celebratory toast.
Shannon Gardner, DMCP
Partner
Shannon’s work hard, play hard mentality is one that has created an incredible company culture. She enjoys traveling with her 2 sons and husband, Jeremy. When not in the office, you can find her pontooning around their lake house in the summer.​​
Barb Campbell, CSEP, DMCP
Managing Partner
Barb’s authenticity makes her an instant friend. She oversees the day-to-day operations and strategic direction of CTC. Watch her face light up when you ask for a Chicago restaurant recommendation, or that you love rescue dogs…enter Henry, the most loyal rescue Schnauzer. She and Henry reside in Andersonville along with her gentle-giant husband, Troy.​
Shawn O’Brian
Vice President, Business Services
Shawn oversees the day-to-day accounting for the team, which has earned him the nickname, Petty Cash. He loves hanging out with his better half, Cristen. His favorite spot is down on Lake Lemon chillin’ on some sort of flotation device.
Haley O’Rourke
Staffing Manager
Haley is our staffing guru and resident eyes and ears when onsite. She is a natural mentor, taking new recruits under her wing and showing them the ropes of event operations. When not managing staffing for all our programs, she and her husband, Keith, can be found floating on a lake with their twin daughters, Violet and Jojo.
Kate Brull
Senior Manager, Event Services
Kate brings her natural creativity and catering expertise to the team. She loves seeing events come to fruition and works hard to make each event unique. She and her husband, Nick, recently tied the knot and are loving living as newlyweds. When asked if she enjoyed being on the bride’s side of planning? “That’d be a hard, NO!”
Miranda Koewler
Manager, Event Services
Miranda is a dynamic event professional who loves relationship-building and problem solving. She thrives in our fast-paced world of events and knows how to form the right team of vendors to create events that wow. When not wowing our clients, you’ll find her and her bf Connor hiking and listening to live music.
Claire Vodrazka
Coordinator, Event Services
Most event professionals don't start their careers teaching pre-school, and that's just the first thing that's unique about Claire. Her education foundation developed the patience of a saint, and the communication skills to talk to anyone. Now fully immersed in the world of events, Claire thrives on "figuring it all out", whether that's behind the scenes or onsite in the trenches. At home with husband Brent, they care for their soft-as-a-baby-blanket cavapoo, Autumn.
Jeremy Gardner, GTP
Partner
Jeremy manages the behind-the-scenes operations at CTC. He loves the outdoors and tries to fly fish and hike as much as he can. You can also find him working on his DJ setlists, a hobby he picked up over the past few years.
Daniel Ecklund. DMCP
Managing Partner
Daniel’s positive take on life works in tandem with his leadership role at CTC. He makes sure CTC is heading in the right direction and current on industry trends by using his engagement with international organizations, like SITE Global and ADMEI. He and husband Andy, collectively known as “Dandy”, live close to the city with their energetic doodles, Piper and Stella.
Elizabeth Duffy, DMCP
Director, Business Development
Elizabeth, aka “Duff”, keeps the team’s sales skills in check and on-point. Need an event with creativity AND on budget? She’s got you covered and could also solve the latest missing person case, because, well, she’s basically a detective. When not exceeding her client’s expectations or watching true crime, you can find Duff living life to the fullest with her hubby, Mike and THE cutest kids, Vera and Charlie.
Jackie Arends
Senior Manager, Event Services
Jackie’s operational skillset is a valuable asset to the CTC team. Don’t let her quiet nature fool you. Need to know how many steps it takes to get from baggage carousel 3 in Terminal 5 to the shuttle pick up….she’s your gal. She and the fluffiest shih tzu, Millie, live in the heart of the city and thrive on seeking new adventures, like pocket-pooch site visits. True story. Ask her about it someday.
Crystal Mann
Manager, Event Services
Crystal’s calm, cool, & collected demeanor bodes well for her in our sometimes-stressful event world. She may not be able to walk a tight rope, but this gal can juggle like a pro….events, clients, vendors; whatever it takes. When she’s not watching live bear cams...look it up, it’s a thing…you can find her hanging out with friends and family and the most chill rescue dog in all of Chicago, Amber.
Gianna Chiappetta
Coordinator, Event Services
Meet Gianna, an envious combination of beauty, wit, and talent. Her spirited nature should be bottled and sold in an amenity basket. Gianna is always on the hunt for new and unique vendors…but you’d better make sure your website and social media are up to speed…she is very particular about who gets through the gate. When not working with the CTC team, you can find her at some of the best downtown hot spots with friends and family.
Our History
What does “CTC” stand for?
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In 1989, we were founded as Chicago Travel Consultants by an individual deeply connected in the hospitality world. He identified there was a demand in Chicago for a DMC that catered to those seeking an elevated service level, predominantly focusing on corporate clients and 3rd Party Meeting planners in a landscape when DMC business was largely rooted in servicing associations.
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After fielding several hundred inquiries about vacation planning, in 2016, we simply rebranded how the community came to know us – “CTC.”
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Today, CTC Destination Management is more than a brand; it's a testament to the founders' vision and the enduring spirit that defines the company's success. As the journey continues, the legacy of innovation, dedication to clients, and a commitment to excellence remain at the heart of CTC's story. Through thick and thin, from the challenges of 9/11 to navigating the pandemic, CTC remained unwavering in its commitment to Chicago’s event community.
Chicago History
We’re so much more than deep dish pizza…
Bordered by the blue waters of Lake Michigan and spanning the picturesque Chicago River, this thriving metropolis is one of the nation’s top business centers. Chicago boasts a vibrant mix of cultural events, recreational opportunities, and spectacular architecture. Shoppers can wander the world-famous Magnificent Mile, outdoor enthusiasts can cycle almost 20 miles of lakeside paths, and both visitors and residents can enjoy countless restaurants – currently numbering over 6,000. Add all that to a tradition of hospitality and it’s no wonder Chicago draws over 50 million visitors each year.
The city combines art, cuisine, entertainment, history, and sports into one culture that can be found only in Chicago. Chicago is the third largest metropolitan area in the U.S. and has the third largest population with more than eight million people. It’s a friendly place with something special for everyone. It is the birthplace of the first skyscraper and first elevated train line. Professional teams in every major sport excite fans in modern venues throughout the city including the Bears, Blackhawks, Bulls, Cubs, Fire, and White Sox. Chicago’s heart pulses to the beat of music; Blues, Gospel, Jazz, Rock, Classical and Opera. One of the birthplaces of the fabled art of Blues, Chicago boasts Blues venues with star performers side by side with up-and-coming musicians. There’s much to be a part of in Chicago and this spirited city is always ready to impress its visitors. A visit to Chicago always promises to be a unique and memorable experience.
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