1st Annual Minnesota Star Awards — The Stars are Aligning

Date: 2005

Venue: Blaisdell Manor (Now The Blaisdell)

Director: Jodi Collen

In 2005, the Minnesota Star Awards were launched to celebrate the outstanding contributions of event professionals across the state. The inaugural event, with a zero-dollar budget, was a true labor of love, driven by the vision and determination of Jodi Collen, CFSEP. Without funds or sponsors to support production, Jodi and her father hand-crafted each program the night before the event, exemplifying the spirit of creativity and perseverance.

The event featured a range of award categories that honored the best in Minnesota’s event industry. To ensure impartial judging, entrants submitted physical binders showcasing their event materials, which were then shipped to a law firm for a thorough evaluation. This first-ever celebration set the stage for the Minnesota Star Awards to become a cornerstone of recognition for event professionals in the state.

2005 Winners

Best Use of Floral

Alice Lynne Olson, The Late Bloomer Floral Design Studio

Best Tabletop Design

Jean Peine, Studio Six Specialty Linen and Décor

Best Use of Graphic Design

Kathy Rumpza and Sara Kamholz, Augsburg College

Best Event Photography

Angela Schroeder, Capella University

Best Event Logistics

-TIE-

Craig Oliver, Aarcee Party and Tent Rental

Jodi Collen, Augsburg College

Best Entertainment:  Budget $10,000 and Under

Kevin Hall, Halls of Magic!

Best Social Event Planning:  Budget $25,000 and Under

Jean Peine, Studio Six Specialty Linen and Décor

Best Social Event Planning:  Budget $25,001+

Nicolle Sellers, Mother of the Bride Weddings and Private Events

Best Corporate of Non-Profit Event Planning:  Budget $25,001+

Heidi Breen, Jodi Collen and Marc Skjervem, Augsburg College

Best Public Event Planning

Chris Romano, Riverview Economic Development Association

Best ISES Team Effort

Nancy Jacobs and Jackie Lee Stone, Design Group

Betsy Pedersen, The Greater Minneapolis Convention and Visitors Bureau

Craig Oliver, Aarcee Party and Tent Rental

Marcia McKinney

Jolene Ihle and Pauline Hoogmoed, Mintahoe Hospitality Group