Tammie Hawkins - Knows How to Network Tammie Hawkins started an event planning business in Los Angeles over five years ago. As the owner of a small growing business, she knows the importance of networking to keep ahead of the competition. She graduated from UCLA in 1993 with a degree in communications as well as public relations. This degree taught her how to communicate well with others and how to interact with others in a professional manner, which is key to networking. With her education and experience, she could run a successful business just on by her own efforts. However, as a member of many networks including the Event Planners Association, she understands the benefits of networking in their business community.