Who We Are

At Empire Events Group, our mission is to develop creative, effective programs that maximize both revenue and awareness, providing industry-leading services and cost-effective solutions while fostering rewarding and lasting relationships.

Empire Events Group partners with your organization to create professional, financially successful, and memorable events. We pride ourselves on maintaining the highest level of professionalism, always putting our clients' interests first. Our philosophy is to empower organizations with flawlessly executed events that leave a lasting impact.

Our experienced team is with you every step of the way, from initial planning to event execution. We are committed to bringing your vision to life, meticulously managing every detail with precision and expertise, ensuring your event is nothing short of extraordinary.

Karen Rosenberg headshot

Karen Rosenberg

President

With over 35 years of experience in event planning, fundraising, and public relations, Karen is a seasoned professional dedicated to delivering exceptional service. Her journey in the event planning field began in 1989 as an intern at the Brooklyn Sports Foundation (BSF) while pursuing her degree at Brooklyn College. Initially planning a career in law and politics, Karen’s passion for public relations and event management led her to shift paths, staying on with BSF after graduation.

Karen Rosenberg

From 1995 to 1997, Karen honed her skills at a leading PR agency, managing high-profile accounts such as the 1969 NY Mets, the 1980 Olympic Hockey Team, and NY International Auto Show. However, her deep connection to BSF drew her back, where she served as Development Director through 2001.

In June 2000, Karen’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Empire Events Group Inc., solidifying her reputation as a prominent figure in the fundraising and event planning industry. Over the years, she has built an impressive client portfolio, specializing in not-for-profit fundraising events. Her roster has included organizations such as The Kristen Ann Carr Fund, The Drama League, Bruce Springsteen Archives and Center for American Music, WhyHunger, Fans for the Cure, Musicians On Call, JetBlue Airways, United Way NYC, Camp Brooklyn, Harlem RBI, United Cerebral Palsy, and many more.

Karen’s dedication to her craft has helped nonprofit organizations raise tens of millions of dollars, profoundly impacting countless lives. Her commitment to charitable causes, combined with her ability to create extraordinary event experiences, has earned her an impeccable reputation among clients and industry peers alike.

With a wealth of experience and an extensive network of industry connections, Karen continues to elevate event marketing, fundraising, and strategic planning for her clients, making a lasting impact in the community and beyond.

Darrielle Carter headshot

Darrielle Carter

Senior Event Manager & Digital Solutions Specialist

Darrielle Carter

Darrielle “Carter” has been an essential part of Empire Events Group since 2013, now serving as the Senior Event Manager and Digital Solutions Specialist. With over a decade of experience, Carter seamlessly combines her expertise in event planning with cutting-edge technology to deliver memorable experiences. Her passion for crafting exceptional events drives her to continuously innovate and exceed expectations, making each project truly unique.

Carter holds an Associate's degree in Business and is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Digital Multimedia Design with a minor in Information Systems Technology (IST) at Penn State University. Her academic background enhances her ability to integrate innovative digital solutions into event management, from custom mobile apps to streamlined tech integrations, boosting both operational efficiency and volunteer engagement.

In her current role, Carter manages high-profile fundraising events, builds strong client relationships, and secures major corporate sponsorships. She excels in volunteer and staff management, onboarding new employees and interns, and streamlining operations through cloud-based systems and CRM tools. Her skills in event logistics, financial reporting, and strategic marketing consistently deliver exceptional results that elevate event experiences.

Outside of work, Carter channels her creativity into baking, wine-making, and exploring the latest tech trends, always bringing the same drive and passion to her personal pursuits as she does to her professional endeavors.

Sydney Handler headshot

Sydney Handler

Events & PR/Marketing
Manager

Sydney Handler

Sydney is a passionate event coordinator and public relations specialist with a focus on creating impactful and memorable experiences that connect people with meaningful causes. With four years of experience in event management, digital marketing, and fundraising, Sydney excels at crafting events that not only engage attendees but also drive awareness and support for organizations and important messages.

Before returning to Empire Events Group to assume her current role in 2022, Sydney's experience includes positions at Hustle & Co., New Haven Leon Sister City Project Inc., and Empire Events Group, where she first discovered her love for events. Sydney holds a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science in Public Relations from Quinnipiac University.

Outside of work, Sydney enjoys exploring new destinations around the world, always with her camera in hand to capture the beauty of different cultures. When she's not traveling, you'll likely find her in the kitchen baking delicious treats for her friends, family, and co-workers.

Ilana Rozenberg headshot

Ilana Rozenberg

Events & Marketing
Coordinator

Ilana Rozenberg

Ilana began her career in nonprofit event planning as an intern at Empire Events Group before transitioning to a full-time position. During her time at Empire Events Group, Ilana has developed a passion for fundraising, client relations and organizing. Her favorite aspect of the job is watching events come together—being a part of all the planning, coordination, and hard work necessary to transform an idea into a successful and memorable experience that supports important causes.

Ilana holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Rutgers University.

In her free time, Ilana enjoys unwinding with a rom-com, traveling the world, or indulging in her foodie passions—exploring new restaurants and discovering hidden culinary gems with friends.

Alayna Gaydos headshot

Alayna Gaydos

Events & Marketing
Coordinator

Alayna Gaydos

Alayna joined Empire Events Group as an Events and Marketing Coordinator after graduating from Rutgers University with a Bachelor's degree in Communications. She thrives on watching the meticulous planning and hard work behind the scenes come to life at every event. Her role has allowed her to sharpen her skills in social media strategy, fundraising, public relations, and marketing, making her a key contributor to the success of various events. One of her favorite aspects of working at Empire Events Group is the relationships she has created and maintained with people along the way.

Outside of the office, she enjoys staying active and playing with her puppy, Coco.

Brianna Isnardi headshot

Brianna Isnardi

Events & Marketing Coordinator

Brianna Isnardi

Brianna turned her love for event planning and digital marketing into a career after graduating Florida Atlantic University. Her previous experience at The Florida Atlantic Alumni Association sparked her love for the event industry, with an emphiasis on transforming an idea into an impactful and memorable event. At Empire Events Group, Brianna brings creativity with her "Day in the Life" vlogs the day of events, and a strong digital presence to all our clients social media channels.

When Brianna is not at work, you’ll find her sharing food finds on her blog @EatsyBreezy, keeping up with the latest trends and analyzing the newest pop culture.

Haley DiPietro headshot

Haley DiPietro

Special Events Intern

Haley DiPietro

Haley commits to expanding her skills and experience as the current Special Events Intern at Empire Events Group. As a current senior at the Pace Universtiy Lubin School of Business and Pforzheimer Honors College, Haley is actively working towards a BBA In Global Marketing. Serving is the Chief of Records for the American Marketing Association at Pace fostered an interest in further pursuing event planning, leading her to her current role.

When Haley isn’t at the office, she could be searching Pinterest for her next outfit inspiration, or planning a vacation to somewhere new!

Lukey the cat headshot

Lukey

Cat-tern

Lukey

Starting off as an EEG Cat-tern in 2018, Lukey has been thriving since day one. Lukey's favorite work activity is assisting with the year-end mailings each year, where he is in charge of quality control. Lukey put in overtime to ensure that each and every envelope got stuffed and stamped just in time for the holidays. No task goes unnoticed (or undisturbed). In addition, Lukey has become an expert in curling up on keyboards during deadlines, jumping into boxes when packing for events, and demanding cuddles during Zoom calls. When not busy overseeing office morale, Lukey enjoys playing with and biting string and opening doors to escape to the great outdoors.

Lukey brightens everyone's day with his playful antics, and has a special way of bringing joy and comfort to everyone in the office.

Charlie Brown the cat headshot

Charlie Brown

Cat-tern

Charlie Brown

Charlie Brown has been a vital member of the team for the past decade since he first strolled into the office with his signature mysterious charm. He is known for his low-key vibes and exceptional ability to roll with the punches (and on the floor). When he’s not busy napping in the coziest sunspots or sunken into the couch, Charlie loves joining staff lunches—mostly for the ambiance, but occasionally for a sneak snack attack. He can be hard to find around the office, which may appear as though he is slacking off, but rest assured Charlie Brown has made a signifiCAT impact here at Empire Events Group.

Charlie Brown may be quiet, but his presence speaks volumes, reminding everyone to slow down, soak in the sunshine, and enjoy the moment.

What Our Clients Are Saying

Ali Oscar

Jon Landau Management

“You all outdid yourself! There isn't an event planner in the world that can hold a candle to you - your ideas, your dedication, your love and support, your ability to network anywhere you go! You amaze and inspire me. You make this job fun and I couldn't (wouldn't) do it without you.”

Noreen Springstead

Executive Directory, WhyHunger

“Karen, You put your heart, soul and hard work into the WhyHunger gala and we are very grateful for all you and your EMPIRE do for us. The evening was beautiful and powerful and had positive energy with uplifting music. Thank you!!!”

Diana Bolívar

President, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando

“Thank you to Karen and Empire Events Group for another unforgettable Savor the Night. I'm always so impressed by your ability to craft an experience that our guests truly love — every detail feels thoughtful, exciting, and completely unique. Thank you for being so wonderful! We're so happy you are a part of our team.”