With the three-year anniversary of Everleigh, one of Toronto’s favourite clubs, coming up on May 12, we’ll be featuring Owner and CEO Ralf Madi’s top five young professionals to know in Toronto. Today we’re talking to Marlo Aquilina, who has managed business for Ralf for more than a decade…
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WORK
Describe what you do in less than 140 characters. Go.
I am the event planner for Capture Group. I produce corporate and private events for Maison and Everleigh when they are not open to the public. I also over see the logistics of the company, essentially running the Capture office.
What was the inspiration for your career route?
In my late twenties I decided to change careers and went back to school for event planning. I loved organizing events and social gatherings with friends so I thought I would try to turn it into a career. It worked!
What is the most memorable milestone in your career so far?
Leaving a secure job with a very reputable company to start a new endeavour with two of my good friends. It was a risk but it all paid off and worked out.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years, 10 years, 20 years?
I see myself in the same field of work, producing events. Maybe on a greater scale. I feel so blessed to love what I do.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Yes I do! Take a chance, even if you think it may not work. If you believe in it, then it’s worth it. The outcome can surprise you. Always go with your gut.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is it (or they) important to you?
Artbound is a charity that I have had the pleasure to support and work with at Maison. I love what the charity stands for: helping children lead a better and brighter future.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
I’m a perfectionist, so when things don’t always go perfectly, I would be very hard on myself. I’ve learned to take things in stride and ease up. Nothing is perfect but I always strive for perfection.
What does the word notable mean to you?
A gateway to what’s going on in our our wonderful city.
PLAY
Where is your favourite place to wine/dine in your city and why?
One of my favourites would be Foxley. The food is always delicious and I love the atmosphere.
What’s the most visited website on your Internet browser? The most played song on your phone?
That would be bandsintown; I love going to concerts and discovering new music. Most played song would be anything from Arcade Fire.
Who’s one person you think everyone should be following on social media?
Sassandbide – they are my favourite designers. Their clothes are like pieces of art and every woman should buy at least one piece of clothing from them to have in their closet.
What’s your favorite country to visit and why? And what’s the next one you plan on travelling to?
That would be Malta because it’s where I’m from and I have family there. I plan on going to Greece on my next trip.
What gives you the greatest FOMO?
I actually never have FOMO. I used to but have learned having FOMO is stressful and a waste of energy. I try to lead a stress-free life as much as I can, so if I missed something it just wasn’t meant to be.
What’s your guiltiest pleasure?
Entertainment gossip magazines.
What’s something you wish you didn’t spend so much money on? What’s something you wish you spent more on?
I wish I didn’t spend so much money on my first car. It was a lemon, to say the least, and drained my bank account.
I honestly can’t think of something that I wished I spent more money on.
And finally, what does success look like to you? Work, play, or otherwise…
I would say being productive in my career, having peace of mind and happiness in my life. I am lucky to have a career that doesn’t feel like work. I love what I do and am always grateful for what I have and never take it for granted. I think that is the key to true success.
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