Merryl Brown Events Announces Partnership with 1% for the Planet

SANTA BARBARA, CA - May 22, 2013 — Merryl Brown Events joined 1% for the Planet (1%), pledging to donate 1% of annual sales to support non-profit organizations focused on sustainability.

"Signing on to 1% for the Planet shows Merryl Brown Events has a strong commitment to investing in sustainability efforts," says Terry Kellogg, CEO. "They're using business as a tool to engage and motivate their stakeholders while partnering with environmental organizations that complement their brand. We're excited to welcome Merryl Brown Events to our global network."

Merryl Brown, President of Merryl Brown Events stated, "We joined 1% for the Planet because we believe that each of us has the responsibility to make a difference in our corner of the world in whatever way we can. We have been giving back to our community since we first launched in 2009. One of our first non-profit events was for the Community Environmental Council, for whom we created an annual, award-winning, branded event, We are proud to announce that the Community Environmental Council will be the beneficiary of our annual 1% for the Planet donation."

Members of 1% for the Planet contribute one percent of annual sales directly to any of the approved non-profit environmental organizations in the network. Non-profits are approved based on referrals, track record and sustainbility focus. Over 3,000 non-profits worldwide are currently approved.

"As we near our 10th anniversary we're celebrating that our members have contributed nearly $100 million of critically needed funds," comments Kellogg. "The understanding that brands can succeed financially by investing in the environment is clearly apparent, and consumer demand is driving a lot of this success. The average annual revenue growth of the companies in the 1% for the Planet network from 2008 to 2011 was over 50%, even though the overall economy has been struggling. There's a paradigm shift happening here and we're thrilled that so many innovative businesses are sling-shotting the movement in to high gear."

About 1% for the Planet
Started in 2002 by Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, and Craig Mathews, owner of Blue Ribbon Flies, 1% for the Planet is a platform of credibility and engagement for environmentally conscious brands that are truly committed to making a positive impact with their business. This growing global movement of over 1,200 member companies in 45 countries donate one percent of annual sales to environmental organizations worldwide. To learn more go to: www.onepercentfortheplanet.org.

About Merryl Brown Events
Merryl Brown Events is among the best event planners in California. Merryl Brown Events has won awards as a top event planning company, specializing in elegant corporate events, social events and Santa Barbara weddings. Unparalleled creativity, a passion for excellence and an unrivaled attention to detail are just part of what we bring to every event that we produce. Merryl Brown Events was the winner of the 2012 National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO-SB) Spirit of Entrepreneurship Award in the Category of Tourism and Hospitality, the winner of the 2011 BizBash West Award for Social Planner of the Year, the winner of the 2011 and 2012 ISES Esprit Award for Best Green Solution, and the winner of the Association of Women in Communications Clarion Award for Best Special Event 2011 and 2012. Visit the website and Facebook page or call (805) 453-5729 for more information.