After four years of planning The Beaux Arts Ball, formerly one of Philadelphia's largest fundraising galas, Karen Spiro knew it was time to take the next step -- build a successful event management business.

Ten years ago, Spiro created EVENTures, an event production and public relations firm originally designed to help corporate and non-profit organizations plan and market a variety of events. Over time, Spiro has focused on corporate sponsorship that can unite corporations and non-profits in a mutually beneficial arrangement.

Spiro made her event planning mark early, conceiving of the PEACE Exhibit at the Philadelphia Museum of Art in 1970. This much-heralded art event was a tremendous success, uniting art students and world-famous artists in the name of world peace. The event featured Bulgarian artist Christo's "gift wrapping" the staircase in the Great Hall with paint-spattered drop-cloths.

Spiro studied Fine Arts at the Philadelphia College of Art and Art History at New York University and originally set her sights on marketing and promoting artists. Her work with artist Bo Bartlett in Philadelphia and New York City led to the creation of Primarily Portraits, an agency designed to bring together portrait artists and clients in a congenial climate. She continues to manage Primarily Portraits, representing more than a dozen portrait artists.

Over the last 35 years, Spiro has honed her event management and marketing skills putting her at the top of her field in Philadelphia.