I was both nervous and excited to start as SoolNua’s latest recruit as a Marketing Assistant. It is a different experience insofar as I was part of a much bigger team in my previous position and to join a company of four people was a big adjustment but a very positive experience.
Another welcome change is the commute; 25 MINUTES. As opposed to my regular 45-minute commute for previous jobs and cannot forget The OFFICE DOG, WOW! I was already off to a positive start before setting foot in the SoolNua HQ.
It was time, my first day…
I took the number 17 bus from my home to Terenure on my first day and arrived 30 minutes early so I had time to familiarise myself with the local coffee shop, Foam. Unfortunately, I discovered the wonders of their coconut milk latte and am now addicted to it.
10 AM approaches, the greetings from Aoife, Gerard and Nova helped settled my nerves. My desk was covered in SoolNua Merch and a gorgeous Macbook. Delighted!

Before I could blink, I was catapulted into the world of MICE. My brain was overloaded with useful information that I wanted to write down. Next thing, my hand is going a million miles an hour writing in illegible handwriting. Note to self, I still need to organize this information into a manageable and readable format.
Not to mention, the fabulous team lunch we had, back in the local, Foam.
And my first week is in motion..
I immediately settled into my new workplace and after 3 days I was offsite at SITE Young Leaders Ireland Summer Event meeting some new industry colleagues. A whirlwind day of afternoon tea (on a bus!!), a glass of champagne and some mime entertainment in the Phoenix Park, and we finished the day with a tour of The Dublin Liberties Whiskey Distillery.

What a first week!
The rest of my time
By the second week, I had adopted the MICE mindset ( I think?) – writing blogs, compiling our newsletter and posting on social. It was great to be given responsibility so soon and this added greatly to my confidence in that I was able to assist Aoife.
Next thing I know, we’re busy in Croke Park Meetings & Events and I was really impressed by Aoife’s superb camera skills. It was a memorable experience to be pitchside and walk out of the player’s tunnel on to the sacred turf. How can I forget exercising for my morning smoothie!
AND, I went to my favourite restaurant in Drumcondra, Shouk. Aoife, sorry for another plug. I should really work for these guys.
I also had the opportunity to attend a training workshop with Pat and Padraic to see the dynamic duo in action. This was a great experience to learn the language of the industry – my MICE dictionary is ever-expanding.
What can I tell you as a new entrant into the market?

I’m now a walking photographer/ moment capturer. Trying to capture content everywhere I go, which is very annoying for the people who are with me.
It’s a fast-paced industry, but super exciting. It’s been an incredible learning experience. I’m exploding with MICE content. I am excited for my next couple of offsite adventures and Nova licks in the office.
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Want to find out more about digital marketing, Instagram or just curious about what we do? Send me an email at aideen@soolnua.com. I’d be happy to help you!
We also have a very informative website to show you everything we do regarding work and services over at SoolNua.com.
For all things meetings and events related, Padraicino is the man to talk to.