I am a seasoned convention planner and event consultant. After serving in leadership roles at various organizations for over a decade, I founded Potomac Meetings and Events in 2013. Recognizing the need for senior-level leadership during organizational transitions and the growing demand for experienced planners in the conference market, I ventured into consulting. I have established myself as a reliable expert, delivering unparalleled experiences for clients, thanks to my organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
My journey as a convention planner has taken me to diverse global destinations, from Seattle to Milan. By immersing myself in different cultures, I gain invaluable insights that enhance my professional approach. With attendees spanning the globe, my clients expect distinctive and delightful experiences and Potomac Meetings and Events is able to deliver.
Carrie Rice, CMP, CIS, has over twenty years of experience in the meeting, special event and conference planning industry. Prior to beginning her consulting career, Carrie was the Director of Conferences and Education for the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), a professional association in Dulles, VA. With ultimate responsibility for the Conference program for the society, Carrie managed staffing and budget for an annual portfolio of 10 to 15 diverse events, including regional and international conferences, receptions, board and committee meetings, awards ceremonies and member activities.
Carrie has accumulated a broad array of experience and expertise in strategic planning, creating and maintaining program budgets, event site selection, hotel and vendor negotiations, site management, program development and scheduling, food and beverage management, audio/visual needs and onsite event management.
With experience in a variety of industries, Carrie has planned and managed events both domestically and internationally, working with a large cast of vendors, speakers, sponsors, and executives to produce first-class events with a very high satisfaction rate. She has extensive experience working with public officials and convention and tourism liaisons to produce unique and memorable events in unconventional locations.
Specialties: Carrie has achieved two industry designations: Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) in 2006; and Certified Incentive Specialist (CIS) in 2015. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from American University, cum laude, and a Certificate in Event Management from The George Washington University.