Southern Approach – Hailey

Meet Hailey!

Hi, I am Hailey Aertker, one of the Lead Event Planners here at Southern Approach!

My career in event planning began after planning my dad's 50th birthday party in 2017. After planning this milestone event for one of my closest family members I realized there is no better feeling than helping someone achieve their dream event, and celebrating those joyful moments of their lives!

When I enrolled in Delgado, I pursued my Associate’s Degree in Hospitality Management, with a desire to learn more about the event industry and to excel in my future career in Event Management. In Spring of 2018, our Lead Planner Amanda introduced me to Christie, and we discussed my career ambitions! Shortly after, I accepted a full- time Event Assistant position with Mise En Place Events and was eventually promoted to Lead Wedding Manager. 

My transition with Southern Approach and The Hospitality Collection has allowed me to also learn the EventRental side of our industry, assisting as an Event Rental Specialist for Southern Hospitality Event Rental. Expanding my knowledge of this aspect of our business has been extremely helpful in allowing me to better serve our planning clients for their events!

I have been a professional Event Manager and Planner now, for nearly 3 years and I have personally been involved in over 100 events. I love to plan weddings, however I know this can be a stressful time for our clients! Knowing that I can help give the couple some relief to actually enjoy their special day is an amazing feeling, and one of the reasons I love my job so much!

I graduated from Delgado Community College in 2019 with my Associate’s Degree Hospitality Management with a concentration in Event Management. In Summer of 2020, I started attending the University of New Orleans to pursue my Bachelor’s Degree in Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism. Through my studies at Delgado and UNO, I have developed an interest in corporate events, and with Southern Approach I hope to be able to venture into planning more corporate events with our clients in the near future.  

When I’m not at the office or on the job, you can find me watching Friends, enjoying a margarita, or hanging out with my friends and family. I can’t wait to get to know you and help you plan your next event!