At HAPPENING.CA, we believe that teamwork is at the heart of any success. To help you get to know our team a little better, every 7th of the month, we will showcase a different person behind HAPPENING.CA. This month, we turn the spotlight on our fearless leader, Pascal Desharnais!
How long have you been working in the event industry?
Since the last millennium. 
My first real exposure to events was via multimedia marketing presentations, and I was hooked when I saw how congress attendees enjoyed the special thematic evenings designed just for them. That combination of education, entertainment and networking has always been my favourite part of events.
What do you think sets HAPPENING.CA apart from other event planning companies?
Our primary strength lies in our team synergy, as well as our ability to seamlessly integrate the creative, logistical and technical aspects of each mandate. I would also add that having an A-V department, a decor workshop, a large selection of furniture, privileged access to artists, as well as a creative team all under one roof, makes us a truly unique option in Québec!
What are some of your favourite all-time events?
Definitely Louisiana’s Mardi Gras! Everyone should experience that ambiance at least once; it’s totally electric. We at HAPPENING.CA are always on the lookout for the latest trends in technology, design and creativity, so there are new events to fall in love with on the Web every week! However, closer to home, I would say that C2-MTL is pretty inspiring!
What advice would you give people interested in starting a business?
Read the book Rework by Jason Fried & David Heinemeier Hansson. More info and book excerptshere.
Who are you outside of the world of events?
I would say that I am someone who enjoys spending down time with friends, whether it’s at the cottage, at parties, camping, or simply with a good bottle of wine. The important thing is the people you surround yourself with, and overall, I’m very blessed, being the proud father of two beautiful girls. I also enjoy traveling, spending relaxing weekends with my girlfriend, or even escaping on my bike!
In Brief:
Early riser or night owl? : Night owl, but with kids it’s hard.
Your sport: Badminton and kayaking (although less frequent)
Coffee or team: Both. There’s nothing like a morning cup of coffee and a good chaï in the afternoon
Your dream: Continue to discover the planet through regular travel. And, although less likely but still a dream is to have a pied-à-terre somewhere tropical so that I could live there a few months out of the year…I love the ocean!
One word to describe HAPPENING.CA : Events – and I’m going to cheat and add FUN!
