Diane B. Lyons and her ACCENT team have been more than just event planners in New Orleans for over three decades; they’ve been experience architects. Diane’s passion and dedication, along with her infectious zest for life, have left an indelible mark on the city’s cultural landscape.
A legend in both New Orleans and the event industry, Diane’s influence is undeniable. Her innovative approach and commitment to excellence have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the 2023 DMC Network Founders Award for lifetime achievement.
Our Commitment
For over three decades, ACCENT New Orleans DMC has crafted unforgettable experiences, transforming celebrations into cherished memories in the heart of the Crescent City. We’ve built a reputation for trust and excellence, becoming an indispensable partner for our clients.
Our Mission
In 1991, Diane B. Lyons, a Certified Meeting Planner (CMP) and Destination Management Certified Professional (DMCP), embarked on a bold mission. With a small but passionate team, she founded ACCENT to revolutionize event experiences in New Orleans and beyond.
Our Dedicated Team
The heart of ACCENT is our team of event specialists. With a core group of 6 experienced project managers leading the charge, and over 100 dedicated part-time staff, we ensure flawless execution for every event we orchestrate.
Approach
We don’t just manage events, we craft unforgettable experiences. For meeting professionals and convention planners, we become an extension of their team, offering unparalleled local expertise and the highest level of customer service. Our goal is simple: to exceed expectations every single time.
Our diverse portfolio extends across over 100 programs, encompassing major meeting cities in the US, Canada, and the Caribbean. This global reach, combined with our deep local knowledge, allows us to deliver exceptional service wherever your event takes you.
Reputation
For over three decades, ACCENT New Orleans DMC has built a reputation for excellence. Our meticulous attention to detail, unwavering commitment to safety, and hands-on approach ensure flawless execution for every event. This dedication has earned us the trust of countless clients and recognition from prestigious publications like The Wall Street Journal and BusinessWeek, and a coveted feature on Good Morning America.
Accreditation
As one of the first accredited members of the Association of Destination Management Executives (ADME) in New Orleans, we hold ourselves to the industry’s highest standards. This prestigious accreditation signifies our unwavering commitment to professionalism, integrity, and exceeding client expectations in every aspect of event management.
Awards & Accolades
- Smart Meetings’ 2024 Smart Women in Meetings Award – Diane Lyons
- DMC Network’s 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award – Diane Lyons
- Biz New Orleans’ 2023 Women to Watch – Diane Lyons
- ADMEI Achievement Award 2023 for Best Four-Week Challenge Event
- New Orleans Magazine’s 2016 People to Watch – Diane Lyons
- American Red Cross’ 2016 Power of Women Honoree – Diane Lyons
- ADMEI Achievement Award 2016 for Best Creative Activity – Best Corporate Social Responsibility
- ADMEI Award 2016 for Excellence in Site Inspections
- International Special Events Society (ISES) Esprit Award 2015: Best Meeting/Conference Program with a budget over $250,000
- ADMEI Achievement Award 2015 for Excellence in Sustainable Initiatives
- ADMEI Achievement Awards 2014: Best Innovative Events – $100,001 – $200,000
- HandCraft Heroes Award 2013 (inaugural) – Diane Lyons, recognized as one of three women nationwide for exceptional support and fundraising efforts for breast cancer awareness
- New Orleans Magazine’s 2013 Top Female Achiever – Diane Lyons
- New Orleans City Business’ 2012
- Women of the Year – Diane Lyons
- ADMEI Achievement Awards 2012: Best Team Building Activity
- International Special Events Society (ISES) Esprit Award 2011: Best Meeting/Conference Program Budget over $250,000
- ADMEI Achievement Awards 2010: Best Innovative Event – $201,000 and above
- ADMEI Achievement Awards 2010: Best Recreational Activity
- WBEC South Supplier of the Year 2010
- New Orleans City Business’ 2004 Women of the Year – Diane Lyons
- PCMA Convene Magazine’s “Author of the Year” – Diane Lyons