NEW ORLEANS – ACCENT New Orleans, Inc., a DMC Network company, is celebrating its 35th anniversary after more than three decades providing destination management services for meetings, conventions and special events in the New Orleans area.
Founded in 1991, ACCENT New Orleans has supported thousands of meetings, conventions, tours, celebrations and special events throughout New Orleans, ranging from small gatherings to large citywide programs.
The company’s roots trace back to Diane Lyons’ launch of Accent on Children’s Arrangements (AOCA), which ACCENT says was the first company in the United States to offer professionally managed on-site children’s programs for conventions, corporate meetings and trade shows. According to ACCENT New Orleans, the concept expanded into a national service and received recognition from The Wall Street Journal, BusinessWeek and Good Morning America. Today, AOCA continues to provide customized child care and youth programming for events across the United States.
Building on that foundation, ACCENT expanded into a full-service destination management company providing event planning, transportation, entertainment, tours, team-building activities, hospitality staffing and customized experiences for corporate meetings, incentive travel programs, conventions and special events throughout the New Orleans area.
“If you’ve attended an incredible event in New Orleans over the past 35 years, there’s a good chance ACCENT had a hand in bringing it to life,” said Diane B. Lyons, CMP, DMCP, President and Founder of ACCENT New Orleans. “We’ve been fortunate to help showcase this city to visitors from around the globe while working alongside the talented hospitality professionals, venues, entertainers, and partners who make New Orleans so special.”
ACCENT – Building a New Orleans Legacy
Over the years, ACCENT has worked with clients during many of New Orleans’ major conventions, meetings and national events while also introducing visitors from around the world to the city’s music, cuisine, culture and traditions. The company said many of its clients, partners and team members have remained part of the organization for decades.
“The anniversary also serves as a reminder of the relationships built along the way,” the company said. “Many of ACCENT’s clients, partners, and team members have been part of the journey for decades, contributing to a legacy rooted in experience, trust, and a deep love for New Orleans.”
“Thirty-five years is a remarkable milestone, but what stands out most are the relationships behind it,” said Jonni Adams, CMP, DMCP, Vice President of ACCENT New Orleans. “The trust our clients place in us, the partnerships we’ve built throughout the hospitality community, and the dedication of our team have made this journey possible. We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished together and excited for what’s still to come.”
ACCENT says it remains focused on creating meaningful experiences for visitors to New Orleans.
“New Orleans has always been the star,” Lyons added. “Our role is bringing together the people, places, and experiences that help visitors connect with everything that makes this city unforgettable.”
As it marks its 35th anniversary, ACCENT said it plans to continue investing in its workforce to support growing client demand. The company recently expanded its staff and expects to recruit for several additional positions in the coming months.
