Tête-à-tête – with Boel Östbom

Hello Boel! Please tell us about your background.
For the past ten years, I have worked in the events industry. I have always known that I wanted to work with events and project management – I enjoy being the one who brings everything together and makes things happen. I studied sales-oriented project management and have experience from both the agency side and the hotel industry. My broad background allows me to quickly understand and meet the needs of various clients. Before joining Operahuset, I worked at places such as Oscars- and Chinateatern.

What does your role entail in practice?
Once Douglas and Malin have secured an assignment, I take over. They sell dreams – which I, along with the operations team, then bring to life. This involves filling the event with the right content – from flowers and decor to artists and entertainment. I guide the client through the entire process, from start to finish, ensuring that every detail is perfect.

What does a typical workday look like for you?
My day is often varied, but the most important aspect is always being available for guests and clients. This can involve anything from venue viewings to emails and phone consultations.
I also always try to be present for a while during each event – to say hello, check in, and gauge the atmosphere. I am driven by seeing people connect, which is why it is important for me to be present even when the event is underway.

Which aspects of your work do you find most rewarding?
Client contact – without a doubt. I aim to build a personal relationship with each client, to get to know them, and to understand their needs and vision. It is through this close collaboration that the magic happens.

How do you collaborate with the various teams within the venue – from restaurant to events and nightlife?
I have close, daily collaborations with all teams – I often go down to the kitchen to discuss menus, timings, and arrangements. It is crucial that we coordinate – when should we rearrange furniture? When should we dismantle? How can we best leverage each other's strengths?
Often, our guests begin with dinner at Operaterrassen and then wish to continue their evening at Café Opera. We then ensure a seamless transition. That is precisely what is so special about Operahuset – that we have everything under one roof: the food, the dinner, and the party!

What do you find unique about Operahuset as a venue?
The location, of course – right in the city center, with water views. But above all, it is the opportunity to create a complete experience. Few venues can offer everything – from pre-dinner drinks to dinner and then on to a nightclub – without guests even needing to leave the building.

What inspires you?
Curiosity – about life and about people. Constantly discovering new perspectives and getting to know different personalities is incredibly inspiring.

If Operahuset were a person – how would you describe its personality?
It would be a person with many unique facets. Full of energy, always awake, with a rich life from early morning until late at night. A true character with many interests and unexpected qualities.

If you were a Disney character – who would you be?
Perhaps Snow White? I ensure everyone is well and keep track of the entire 'family'. Someone has to keep everything together!

What do you prefer to do to unwind – outside of work?
I love to run, preferably outdoors in nature. The archipelago is a favorite place for rejuvenation. I also enjoy being at the stable – and traveling when I get the chance.

What would you say to someone considering a career in the events industry?
Go for it! It's the most enjoyable job in the world! Sometimes it almost feels like a 'pretend job' – because it is so incredibly fun. You constantly get to be where the action is. Are you even allowed to have this much fun at work?

If your job were a cocktail – which one would it be?
A Long Island Iced Tea – a drink with many ingredients!