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( Antarctica)

and counting…

About Us

Founded in 1972, Sundowner International Corporation has over 52 years of global experience managing thousands of world-class meetings and events for corporations and organizations. From a small group of 10 to large-scale conferences with up to 5,000 attendees, we’ve brought our attendees to North America, Europe, South America, Central America, Africa, Australia and Asia. We bring unparalleled expertise to each of our clients and our strategic approach ensures that your bottom line – whether it’s budget optimization, increased visibility, enhanced attendance, or cost savings – is always a priority. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, a seasoned team of professionals, and highly efficient management systems, Sundowner adapts to your evolving business needs, delivering flawless results that drive success.

Delighted Clients

Sundowner did an incredible job planning out this trip. The events and dinners they planned were excellent and I wouldn't have changed a thing. I cannot thank Brian and his team enough for everything they did for me and especially my wife on this trip. We are grateful to all of them.

THANK YOU for everything you did to make the event flawless. As always there are many moving pieces, as well as customer change/requests, and you are able to handle everything with such grace and expertise.

Sundowner did an incredible job, this was truly a first-class experience.

You guys always make sure everything is set up and organized very well with the highest degree of professionalism. You are all very friendly as well which creates a feeling of truly caring about each of us and to know your interest in us is most important. It truly feels like we are on a trip with friends instead of the feeling of being just another number.

Topnotch. Best of the best!

A HUGE Thank you to Sundowner for helping me with a flawless National Sales Meeting last week. I received such positive feedback on the meeting topics, but just as important is the hotel, location, evening events, flights, etc. I am so appreciative of our partnership and wanted to thank you all for all you did for me and my team.

    Who We Are

    Meet the Best of the Best – aka the Sundowner Team!

    At Sundowner International Corporation, our team is the driving force behind our client’s successful meetings and events. With decades of expertise and an unwavering commitment to excellence, each member brings a unique skill set and passion for delivering unforgettable experiences. From planning to execution, our professionals ensure that every detail is handled with precision, creativity, and care, making your vision come to life. When you partner with Sundowner, you’re not just getting a service; you’re getting a dedicated team that’s committed to your success.

    “If you love what you do, you’ll never have to work a day in your life.”

    Eugene P. Mele

    Chairman Emeritus/Founder

    Gene graduated with a B.A. in Marketing from Lewis University in 1959. After graduation, he began his career with Sabena Airlines as the District Sales Manager for Indiana, Ohio, and Illinois. In 1964, Gene joined American Express as Director of Operations for South America and Mexico, a position he held for four years before transitioning to Madison Bank & Trust as Vice President of Marketing. At Madison, he successfully launched and managed a group travel division, while also serving on the advisory boards of Eastern Airlines and Pan American World Airways.

    Through his attendance at various marketing conferences, Gene recognized a growing need for professional meeting planning services. To address this demand, he founded Sundowner International Corporation in January 1972. Guided by his leadership and vision, and with major clients like the H.J. Heinz Company, Coca-Cola, and Tootsie Roll, Sundowner rapidly evolved into a highly successful meeting planning company. Gene is recognized as one of the “Founding Fathers” of the meeting planning industry.

    Brian J. Mele

    President/Chief Troublemaker

    Brian joined Sundowner in the late 80’s after a successful career in restaurant and nightclub management. Embracing his father Gene’s philosophy – “We are not in the meeting business, we are in the relationship business.” – Brian has continued to expand Sundowner into the thriving meeting planning company that exists today. His approach is rooted in building long lasting relationships, connecting people, and offering smart, creative solutions. He excels at seeing both the big picture and the finer details, helping clients achieve their goals through strategic and innovative meeting solutions.

    With an in-depth knowledge of the industry, strong vendor relationships, and a clear creative vision, Brian has planned and executed thousands of high-profile events, including annual conferences, incentive trips, sales meetings, nonprofit fundraisers, golf tournaments, and grand openings across six continents.

    Brian resides on the North Shore of Chicago with his wife Natalie, their five children, one dog, and two cats.

    Stephanie Hill

    Executive Vice President

    With over a decade of experience in planning meetings and events, Stephanie has honed a keen eye for detail and organization. When not orchestrating events, Stephanie enjoys exploring the city with her husband and their son, discovering new favorite spots and hidden gems. She shares her home with their two beloved cats, who add a touch of whimsy to everyday life. A passionate traveler, Stephanie loves immersing herself in new cultures and destinations. Balancing work and adventure, she cherishes every moment spent with her family and exploring the world.

    What made you get into meeting planning?

    From high school, where I thrived on organizing homecoming and prom details, I’ve been passionate about the event industry. This enthusiasm deepened during my time at the University of Iowa, where a series of internships confirmed my love for event planning and allowed me to refine my skills.

    What is your favorite city you’ve traveled to?

    Rome! Sign me up for some cacio e pepe followed by gelato any day of the week.

    Michelle Sanks

    Director of Corporate Meetings & Events

    Michelle is a dedicated event planner specializing in corporate meetings and conferences. She excels at transforming ideas into seamless experiences that engage and inspire. With a strong passion for logistics and detail, she ensures that every event reflects the brand’s vision and objectives. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring new cuisines (she is a Taurus after all!) and travel destinations, which often inspire her creative approach.

    What made you get into meeting planning: 

    I love meeting planning because I’ve always had a passion for organizing and bringing people together. I enjoy the challenge of creating events that not only meet business goals but also foster connection and engagement. The dynamic nature of corporate meetings excites me, and I love the satisfaction of seeing a well-executed plan come to life. Plus, I find it incredibly rewarding to help clients create memorable experiences that leave a lasting impact on their attendees!

    What is your favorite city you’ve traveled to: 

    Does Chicago count? Even though technically it’s not somewhere I’ve traveled, I still consider it one of my favorite places in the world; and for many reasons!  For one, the food scene is unbeatable, from small mom and pop shops to world-class restaurants, there’s always something delicious to discover. Plus, it serves as a perfect hub for me—whether I’m exploring the vibrant city or using it as a launching point for my adventures and work around the world. There’s just something special about the energy and culture here that keeps drawing me back.

    Nicole Mondi

    Senior Meeting Planner

    Nicole is a dedicated Senior Meeting Planner at Sundowner, where her passion for planning and organization shines through in every event she orchestrates. A graduate of the University of Illinois, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role, ensuring that each meeting is meticulously planned and executed to exceed client expectations. Outside of work, Nicole enjoys reading and playing sports, and her diverse interests make her a valuable asset to the Sundowner team.

    What is your favorite part of planning meeting / incentive planning?

    Nicole loves witnessing everything come together at events and seeing guests have the best time. It truly makes all the hard work and planning worth it!

    What is your favorite city you’ve traveled to?

    Her love for travel inspires her work, and she dreams of hosting an event in Prague, a city that holds a special place in her heart from her study abroad experience. Paris, her favorite city to visit, continues to fuel her creativity and passion for cultural exploration.

    Chief

    Global Barketing Manager & Chief Scratchetist

    Chief, a Native American Indian Dog, proudly serves as Sundowner’s Global Barketing Manager and Chief Scratchetist. Chief joined the Sundowner team in 2020 as a 9-week-old bundle of energy, quickly becoming an irreplaceable part of the office. On most days, you’ll find him actively participating in client meetings, snoozing around the office, or making a cameo appearance in the background of Zoom calls. Chief’s passions are simple but strong – food, running wild in his yard, howling, making new friends, squeaker toys, and food! Did we mention food? Any food!

    When he’s not holding down the fort at the office, Chief enjoys running errands with his dad, whether it’s a trip to Home Depot, the post office, the car wash, or even a quick stop at Starbucks for a “Puppuccino.”

    Plan Your Event

    Ready to create an unforgettable experience? Let our team of experts bring your vision to life with seamless planning and flawless execution. Whether you’re organizing a small corporate meeting or a large-scale conference, Sundowner International Corporation is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring that your event exceeds expectations and leaves a lasting impression on you and your attendees.
    let’s start planning

    What We Do

    At Sundowner International Corporation, we specialize in orchestrating exceptional meetings, events and incentive programs, customized to meet your unique needs. Whether you’re planning a small 10-person board meeting or a large conference with over 5,000 attendees, our commitment to delivering excellence remains the same. Our experienced team blends meticulous attention to detail with a thorough understanding of your objectives, ensuring each event is on budget, on message, and aligned with your goals. With a personal touch and unparalleled customer service, we transform your vision into a seamless, impactful experience that not only exceeds expectations but drives success.

    Whatever your needs, we’re here to make it extraordinary!

    Contact Us

    This…Is Our Office…™

    Get in Touch

    Have questions or ready to start planning your next meeting? Reach out to our team and let us help you turn your vision into reality with expert guidance and seamless execution. We’re here to make your planning experience effortless!

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