In the world of event planning, there’s no room for second chances. Every wedding, corporate gala, or product launch is a one-time spectacle—something that must go off without a hitch, captivating the audience, and leaving them talking long after the event has ended. The pressure to execute flawlessly is enormous, and while many businesses dabble in event production, only a few truly understand how to make every moment unforgettable.
Jodi Harris, CEO of FUN at Sight & Sound Events, is a trailblazer in the event industry, earning her and the Sight & Sound team a total of 12 prestigious NACE One Awards for excellence in event production, DJ entertainment, and photography. Her dedication to creating unforgettable experiences has set a high standard in the industry. In addition to these accolades, Jodi was honored with the George Zell Spirit of NACE Award, a recognition given to individuals who embody passion, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the catering and event community. This award reflects her influence and impact, not just as an award-winning professional but as an inspiring force in the industry.
But Jodi’s path to success wasn’t one that followed the typical event planner trajectory. Her story, rooted in the fast-paced world of television production, reveals a woman who spent years behind the scenes creating magic for millions of viewers, only to take that expertise and translate it into some of the most successful live events in the industry.
“I’m passionate about elevating the event industry as a whole. Whether it’s through education, mentorship, or simply creating unforgettable experiences, I want to leave a lasting impact.”
From Television to Event Planning: A Bold Leap
Before the dazzling lights of Las Vegas became her playground, Jodi Harris was immersed in the world of television production. Starting her career at ABC, she cut her teeth on live television, learning the ropes in one of the most intense environments imaginable. Her next stop was the set of Regis & Kathie Lee, where she made sure everything went off without a hitch for one of America’s most beloved morning shows.
It was her stint at MTV, as a talent coordinator, where the idea of live events truly clicked for Jodi. “I was surrounded by some of the biggest names in entertainment, and the energy at these events was electric. I began to realize that whether it was television or a live event, they both required the same things: a compelling story, flawless execution, and a captivated audience,” she reflects. It was this epiphany that led her to found Sight & Sound Events, a decision that would blend her experience in broadcast production with her growing passion for event planning. “Event production is like storytelling,” says Jodi. “Every event we work on is an opportunity to craft a narrative that resonates with people, leaving them with an experience they’ll never forget.”
The Sight & Sound Difference
Sight & Sound Events, founded more than three decades ago, has been built on one simple principle: creating fun events for fun people. From weddings to corporate events, their portfolio of work is a testament to their high-energy approach to entertainment. The company offers a full suite of services—from A/V solutions and DJ services to live entertainment, photography, and event lighting—but it’s their attention to detail and the seamless integration of each component that sets them apart from the competition.
Jodi’s deep understanding of how to craft a memorable experience has resonated deeply in a city like Las Vegas, where events are high-stakes and expectations are sky-high. The challenges are plentiful: clients come from all over the world, communication can be a nightmare, and coordinating the logistics of an event in one of the busiest cities in the world requires precision. “Many event planners treat this as a side hustle,” says Jodi, “but we are a full-time, dedicated team. Our clients trust us with their biggest moments, and that trust is something we never take for granted.” This commitment to excellence and professionalism has helped Sight & Sound Events build a brand that’s synonymous with quality. “Our clients know that they’re not just hiring a DJ or a photographer; they’re hiring a team that will go above and beyond to create an unforgettable experience,” she adds.
Leadership, Resilience, and the Art of Saying “No”
For Jodi, success hasn’t come easily. In fact, one of the most important lessons she’s learned is the value of resilience. “In the early days, I faced a lot of skepticism. I was a woman in a male-dominated industry, and starting my own company came with its own set of challenges,” Jodi explains. “But I realized that ‘no’ is just the beginning of the conversation. Every obstacle I encountered became an opportunity to prove myself, and I was determined to make it work.” Her creativity has been the driving force behind some of Sight & Sound’s most memorable events. Take, for example, the award-winning experience she curated for United Airlines Cargo. “We had a magician, a DJ, casino games, event lighting, a photo booth, and even Elvis showing up for selfies,” she recalls with a laugh. “It was a celebration that truly stood out because we weren’t afraid to think outside the box.” And when the COVID-19 pandemic brought the event industry to a standstill, Harris’s adaptability shone through. She quickly pivoted to virtual and hybrid events, producing a wealth of YouTube content to educate clients on how to host safe and successful gatherings. “We didn’t just survive the pandemic—we found new ways to thrive,” she says.
One of the hardest decisions Jodi ever had to make was turning down clients who didn’t align with her brand values. Early on, she took every gig that came her way, but over time, she realized that working with the right clients leads to better results for everyone involved. “There’s no point in chasing every dollar if the project isn’t a good fit. You have to stay true to your mission and values,” she shares. This mindset, though difficult at times, has helped Jodi build a reputation for integrity and excellence. Her leadership style is equally unique—fun, energetic, and hands-on. Jodi isn’t the kind of CEO who sits behind a desk, delegating tasks from afar. She’s in the trenches with her team, ensuring every detail is executed to perfection. “When I DJed for the Smart Meetings Smart Women Conference in 2024, I made sure to bring my vibrant personality and curated a playlist that set the tone for an engaging event. I want everyone to feel the energy I bring,” Jodi says.
"I’m passionate about elevating the event industry as a whole. Whether it’s through education, mentorship, or simply creating unforgettable experiences, I want to leave a lasting impact."
Expansion and Innovation
As Sight & Sound Events continues to grow, Jodi has her eyes set on expanding the company’s reach, particularly in the corporate sector. “We’re focusing more on our A/V division and interactive entertainment experiences,” she says. “We’re also exploring wellness integrations for business events, which is an exciting new frontier for us.” Her most recent initiative—a Master Class called Making Amazing Stuff Happen at the Mobile Entertainment Expo (MEX)—is designed to help DJs and event professionals grow their businesses. It’s a natural extension of her commitment to education and mentorship in the event industry.
Jodi is also actively involved in the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE), where she serves on the Member Recognition Committee. Her ultimate goal is to become a recognized speaker and educator in the hospitality and events field while pursuing her Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation.
The Final Takeaway
Jodi Harris’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and authenticity. Through Sight & Sound Events, she’s not just planning parties—she’s crafting memories, building connections, and proving that with the right mix of passion and professionalism, anything is possible.
As she puts it, “Life is too short for boring events. Let’s make it fun, let’s make it unforgettable, and let’s make it happen.” And in a city that never sleeps, Jodi Harris is wide awake, dreaming up the next big thing.
