REFERENCES

Mary-Ann Alfthan

Event organizer, Aalto University

We have had the pleasure of working with Ida Martela at several Aalto University conferences. Typically, she is part of the conference social program, where she has proven herself to be a diverse and talented moderator and performer. As a professional moderator, Ida brings structure and flow to the event she hosts. Her sense of timing and ability to read the room ensures that the evening runs smoothly, taking all the pressure off the hosts.

One of Ida's signature roles is her charming "Taru" character who never fails to elicit laughter and create a warm and inclusive atmosphere. Many guests have expressed their appreciation for the relaxed feeling she spreads. Ida is also a gifted dancer. She has surprised and delighted guests with captivating dance performances, often in scenic outdoor settings. These moments have provided the perfect finale to our conference dinners, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees.

In addition to her charisma and talent, Ida is exceptionally reliable and flexible, always adapting to the needs of the event. Her fluency in English, Finnish, and Swedish makes her an ideal host for international audiences and we look forward to working with her again in the future.

Henna Laitio

Senior Specialist, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health

Ida prepared and performed a powerful monologue as part of our workplace-focused event. The piece was written specifically for the occasion and was grounded in the themes we explored during the day. Ida crafted the text to support our message about humane working life, approaching the topic through art and embodied experience.

As a thoughtful and insightful closing act, the monologue fit seamlessly into the overall program. In addition, Ida led a voluntary, restorative body-based exercise during the event's exhibition segment. The monologue received spontaneous praise even after the event – a clear sign that it genuinely resonated with the audience. Ida played a central role in the success of the event and helped create the warm atmosphere we as organizers were aiming for.

Working with her was smooth from start to finish. Communication was easy, and the creative planning phase felt inspiring – Ida is simply a joy to collaborate with. I can warmly recommend her for a wide range of events and performances.

Mari Suokari-Pärssinen

Communications Manager, Suomen Erillisverkot Group

Ida and her colleague Eero – also known as Taru and Kaitsu – brought a refreshing breeze of lightness into the world of safety and critical communications. True expertise, with a playful twist :) Their performance was a perfect way to lighten up the seminar afternoon. Thank you, Taru and Kaitsu, you truly made a lasting impression!

Kaisa Siipilehto

"Finally something truly new and different! Real outside-the-box thinking. Congratulations – you left a lasting impression!" summarized one of the event participants.

For this year's Bisnespäivät, I wanted to create a new kind of presence at the fair. Instead of a traditional booth, we organized guided tours every hour and fifteen minutes over two days, showcasing our newly renovated meeting spaces. In addition to introducing Messukeskus's Kokoustamo venue, I wanted to offer visitors a unique, emotional experience.

I invited Ida to a planning session, where we began shaping the idea of a more programmatic and immersive tour. She immediately understood the concept, grasped the goals and the feel of the event, and jumped right in – co-creating her segment together with her colleague Eero.

The result was a surprising and delightful experience that left some guests in tears of joy once they realized what was happening. The goal was to offer something truly memorable and emotionally resonant – and we succeeded.

Two key figures brought the tour to life: the caricatured event organizer Taru Kankaanpää and the absurdly expensive social media consultant Kaitsu. Creativity needs space, and humor is a delicate art form. Every tour was different, depending on the audience and group dynamics. The content evolved in real time, shaped by audience feedback and the flow of the day. The story deepened, and the characters developed from one tour to the next.

The collaboration went smoothly in every way. Taking a bold leap into something new paid off – the outcome exceeded even my highest expectations. A heartfelt thank you to Ida and Eero for your commitment, creativity, and the incredible energy you poured into those two days!

"The program – Ida and Eero – was truly surprising and absolutely fantastic. As someone experienced in event production, I was genuinely and positively surprised. Especially Ida's character – solid 10/10 for her! :D"

Reading feedback like this makes me wonder when these characters will return to charm our guests again. The next gig is already booked – and they will definitely be back.

Annina Piekkari

Talent Expert, Reaktor

I was organizing an evening for our recruitment team and wanted to include something thought-provoking, fun, and warm-hearted in the program. The improvisational theatre exercises led by Ida and Eero were a perfect fit. With their wonderful energy, presence, and creative exercises, they brought fresh perspectives and depth to our conversations – and gave our laughter muscles a real workout.

All in all, it was a fantastic experience that also helped strengthen our team spirit even further.