Let's Talk About A Santa Beach Run For A Cause

In this episode of Elevated Eventure, host David Sauers sits down with Stephanie McIntyre, a 27-year event industry powerhouse best known for directing the North Carolina Seafood Festival—the state’s largest three-day festival. From coordinating scuba tanks to managing thousands of attendees, Stephanie has done it all.

Now the founder of Staircase Event Sponsorship Consulting, Stephanie shares her journey into consulting, where she helps festivals, races, and charity events thrive through sponsorship strategy, logistics, and fundraising.

One of the highlights? Her work with the Carteret County Partnership for Children, where she helped launch the festive and family-friendly Santa Beach Run in Atlantic Beach, NC. Think: sand, sneakers, and hundreds of Santas—all running to support early childhood programs.

What you’ll hear in this episode:
• How to land meaningful sponsorships (and some wild sponsor requests)
• The evolution from event director to consultant
• Tips on staying calm under pressure and managing teams effectively
• Why aligning sponsor values is key to long-term success
• A sneak peek at the Santa Beach Run and what makes it magical

📅 Save the Date:
The Santa Beach Run happens every first Saturday of December in Atlantic Beach, NC!

🔗 Connect with Stephanie:
Website: staircaseconsult.com
Facebook: Staircase Event & Sponsorship Management
Instagram: @Staircase_Event_Management
LinkedIn: Staircase Event Consulting

 

Whether you're a seasoned planner or just getting started, this episode is packed with practical gems and inspiring stories from someone who’s been in the trenches—and built the ladder out.

Like, follow, or subscribe to Elevated Eventure for more behind-the-scenes stories from the world of festivals and unforgettable experiences.

#EventProfs #FestivalPlanning #SponsorshipTips #SantaRun #SeafoodFestival #ElevatedEventure #PodcastSeries