Who We Are
Financial planning specialists focused on event budget management
Since 2019, we've been helping Australian businesses navigate the complexities of event budgeting. What started as a small consultancy in Port Macquarie has grown into a trusted partner for companies across the region.
Our Story Begins
Back in 2019, I was working with a mid-sized tech company that was hemorrhaging money on corporate events. Their annual conference budget had ballooned to twice the original estimate, and nobody could explain where the extra costs came from.
That's when I realized most businesses treat event budgeting as an afterthought. They focus on the creative aspects – venue, catering, entertainment – but miss the financial framework that holds it all together.
What We Actually Do
We don't just create spreadsheets and call it done. Our approach involves understanding your business objectives first, then building financial structures that support those goals.
For instance, we worked with a manufacturing firm in Newcastle whose trade show participation was eating into their R&D budget. We restructured their event portfolio, focusing resources on three high-impact shows instead of seven mediocre ones. Their lead generation improved by 40% while spending 25% less.
The Real Challenge
Most businesses underestimate event costs by 30-50%. It's not because they're bad at math – it's because event expenses have this sneaky way of multiplying.
Audio-visual upgrades, last-minute catering changes, extended venue hours, travel cost fluctuations – these aren't emergencies, they're predictable variables. We build buffers and contingencies into every budget, but more importantly, we help you understand where your money actually goes.
How We Think About Money
These aren't just company values – they're the financial principles that guide every budget we create
Transparency Over Complexity
Every line item should make sense to you, not just to us. We explain where money goes and why certain allocations matter for your specific goals.
Conservative Estimates
We'd rather you come in under budget than scramble for emergency funding. Our forecasts account for realistic cost variations and market fluctuations.
Business Impact Focus
Pretty events that don't deliver business results are expensive mistakes. We help you allocate resources toward measurable outcomes.
Meet The Team
Small team, focused expertise. We believe in doing fewer things exceptionally well rather than trying to be everything to everyone.
Kieran Blackwood
Founder & Financial Planning Director
Spent eight years as a corporate finance manager before starting aurnovaiqi. Kieran's background includes budget management for companies ranging from local startups to ASX-listed firms. He's particularly good at spotting hidden costs that others miss and creating realistic timelines for complex event planning projects. When he's not analyzing spreadsheets, you'll find him hiking around the Port Macquarie coastline or experimenting with sourdough recipes.
Ready to Get Your Event Budget Right?
Let's discuss your upcoming events and create a financial framework that actually works for your business.
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