WTTC.com Chicago city partner Stefani Shanley recently sat down with Karen Coley of Verde Events, Inc., a Chicago-based event management company specializing in social and environmentally sustainable event programs. Here is that interview:

WTTC: Karen, you live and work in Chicago. In your opinion, what makes Chicago unique?

KC: Our city has a vibe that exudes pride in our “unique collection” of architecture, friendliness, and love of nature, the arts and sports. It’s a city that embraces diversity and simply “shines.”

WTTC: Why are “green” meetings such a hot commodity these days?

KC: Social responsibility is very high on most people’s agenda.  Maybe “global warning” had something to do with it?  But, frankly most people actually care about this little planet we call home—so “green” is the new black!

WTTC: How is Verde Events leading the way in terms of green meeting planning?

KC: We parter with hotels and suppliers that have a clear, active agenda in managing and promoting environmentally responsible strategies in meeting management. And, we often suggest destinations that offer a natural “wow-factor” while at the same time delivering an amazing once-in-a-lifetime-experience. Even small things count. For example, we partner locally (whenever possible) on room gifts and choose limited prints by local artisans thereby reducing our need to ship over great distances and our carbon footprint.

WTTC: What’s the biggest misconception around planning a green meeting?

KC: That it is difficult or more expensive.

WTTC: What are some of the “green” events you have coming-up?

KC: We’ll be doing an annual charity-based client/supplier event for Earth Day.

WTTC: Are there certain requirements your vendors must meet?

KC: Yes—and we look to our Green Meetings Industry Council partners first!

WTTC: Are people still expecting big splashy events or has that changed? How?

KC: Over-the-top glitz and bling are in the past and considered wasteful.  Mindful planning that shows class and thoughtfulness is “in.”

WTTC: Creativity plays an important role in what you do. How do you keep your events new and exciting?

KC: I keep my eyes and ears open. You can find ideas anywhere — from YouTube to college campuses to the hottest new restaurant. We live in the most creative country on the planet, in the most creative city in the country, and in the most creative time.

WTTC: Do you have a special “green” tip that you would like to share with other planners?

KC: Support efforts to operate events more efficiently and with less waste.  We need to change the mentality that all meetings are a boondoggle — so don’t operate under that pretense. As an industry, we need to educate the public (and our clients) that technology actually increases the need for people to get together. So many employees work remotely now. Corporations that thrive are those that are able to develop a strong culture. In order to do that employees must be together for that culture to become real—not virtual.  Don’t let too much technology abolish the need for all of us to be together.

WTTC: Has the current economic climate affected the number and/or type of events you’ll do this year?

KC: We’ve actually doubled the number of programs on our books from 2009 to 2010. We did this by sticking to our core values: Exceptional. Responsible. Extremely Creative.

WTTC: What opportunities do you see on the horizon?

KC: The “big house” travel companies simply cannot justify their overhead. Well-managed boutique companies that offer excellent service and creativity at a lower-overhead price are going to grow and thrive.