Total Events was the brain child of Richard Carrier, an Albany native and graduate of Schenectady Community College. Rich also earned a degree in Hospitality Management from University of Nevada Las Vegas. His knowledge for the hospitality industry was further refined during his 15 years at the legendary Las Vegas Hilton, and subsequently as the Director of Catering when the Rio Hotel & Casino was launched.

Wanting to be closer to his family, he and his wife Melissa returned to the Albany area. With his entrepreneur spirit and passion for the event industry, he launched Total Events in 1999 from the basement of their Ballston Lake home. His drive and leadership drove the company to exponential growth and the formation of an amazing team of event professionals that are all part of the “Total Events’ family”. Rich is a hands-on General Manager and resident dog whisperer to our team’s family of dogs that visit the office.

Rich would be nowhere without his loving and self-driven wife, Melissa Carrier. Also a graduate of University of Nevada Las Vegas, Melissa’s professional background includes sales at IBM and Vice President of Sales and Marketing for an international technology firm. Energetic and resourceful, Melissa’s optimism is contagious throughout the Total Events team. She spearheads all Marketing and Financial aspects of the business, but don’t be surprised to see her on a ladder installing some new drapery inspiration.

Rich was recently honored as a top 50 Distinguish Alumni of Schenectady Community College and serves on the Advisory Board at the College. Melissa serves on the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors for Discover Albany.

Rich and Melissa’s pride and joy are their children, Justin & Rachel. The Carrier’s love to travel and enjoy spending days cruising on their boat with family and friends.

Contact Us:

Rich@totaleventsny.com

Melissa@totaleventsny.com