8 Essential Tips to Plan Your First Event Successfully
8 Essential Tips to Plan Your First Event Successfully
Planning your first event can be an exciting yet daunting task. Whether it’s a small gathering or a large conference, careful planning is key to ensuring its success (I know, I’ve said this over and over again). To help you navigate through the process, I’ve compiled eight essential tips that will guide you from the initial stages to the final execution of your event. By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to create a memorable and seamless experience for your attendees and, hopefully, an event they will never forget (in a good way, of course).
Define Your Event Objectives
Before diving into the planning process, you need to define your event objectives. Ask yourself:
- What do you want to achieve?
- Are you aiming to educate, entertain, or network?
Having a clear vision will guide your decision-making throughout the planning stages. Establish specific goals, such as the number of attendees, target audience, and desired outcomes. By clearly defining your objectives, you’ll be able to align your planning efforts and resources accordingly.
Set a Realistic Budget
One of the most important aspects of event planning is deciding on a realistic budget. You must consider all the potential expenses, such as venue rental, catering, marketing, staff, and miscellaneous costs. Research prices, request quotes, and negotiate whenever possible. Allocate funds wisely by prioritizing key elements that align with your event objectives. Be prepared for unforeseen expenses by setting aside a contingency budget. Remember, it’s better to overestimate your expenses than to be caught off guard. You may have to cut your budget from certain areas to compensate for more important areas, so try to be flexible.
Choose the Right Venue
I’ll keep this section short because I have an entire blog on this topic. The venue you select sets the tone for your event. Consider factors such as location, capacity, ambiance, accessibility, and cost. Visit potential venues and assess their suitability for your event’s theme and requirements. Ensure the venue has the necessary amenities and technical capabilities, such as audiovisual equipment and Wi-Fi. Don’t forget to inquire about any additional costs, such as security or insurance. Finally, read the contract carefully before signing and keep a copy for reference.
Check out the full blog on choosing the perfect venue.
Develop a Realistic Timeline
Creating a detailed timeline is essential for staying organized and on track throughout the planning process. Break down the tasks into manageable steps and assign deadlines for each. Start with the event date and work backward, considering all the necessary arrangements, including marketing, vendor bookings, and logistics. Allow for extra time buffers to accommodate unexpected delays or changes. Utilize project management tools (like Trello) or event planning software to help you streamline the process and stay on top of deadlines.
Market Your Event Effectively
To ensure a successful turnout, you need to put your marketing hat on. Develop a marketing strategy that includes a mix of online and offline channels. Leverage social media platforms, create an event website, and use email marketing to reach your target audience. Collaborate with industry influencers or partners who can promote your event to their networks. Craft compelling content, such as blog posts, videos, and infographics, to generate buzz and engage potential attendees. Regularly track and analyze your marketing efforts to identify what works best and make adjustments as needed.
Are you looking for ideas to market your upcoming event? Check out my blog, where I share 4 easy ways to get started.
Secure Reliable Vendors and Partners
Successful events often rely on reliable vendors and partners. Research and choose reputable suppliers for catering, audiovisual equipment, rentals, and any other services you may require. Seek recommendations from trusted sources or ask for referrals from other event organizers. Before finalizing agreements, thoroughly review contracts, discuss expectations, and confirm all details in writing. Maintain clear communication channels with your vendors and partners to address any concerns or changes promptly.
Need help getting started? Check out my blog, where I share my top 5 Edmonton event vendors!
Create Engaging and Memorable Experiences
To leave a lasting impression on your attendees, focus on creating engaging and memorable experiences. Incorporate interactive elements, such as workshops, guest speakers, or entertainment, that align with your event objectives. Pay attention to details, including signage, lighting, and decor, to enhance the ambiance and atmosphere. Consider implementing technology (event apps or virtual reality experiences) to add a modern touch. Engage with your attendees before, during, and after the event to build a sense of community and encourage feedback for future improvements.
Prepare for Contingencies
Despite planning, unforeseen circumstances can arise. It’s essential to have contingency plans in place to mitigate any potential issues. Identify potential risks and develop alternative solutions for each scenario. Have backup suppliers, a backup venue option, and a plan for unexpected weather conditions. Communicate the contingency plans to your team, vendors, and key stakeholders, ensuring everyone is prepared to adapt. Remember flexibility and adaptability are essential qualities for successful event planning.
Do you need help getting started on creating contingency plans? No problem, I have a blog just for that!
Planning your first event can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. By following these eight essential tips, you’ll be well-equipped to create a successful event that meets your objectives and exceeds attendee expectations. Remember to define your event goals, set a realistic budget, carefully choose the venue, and develop a comprehensive timeline. Focus on effective marketing, secure reliable vendors and partners, create engaging experiences, and be prepared for contingencies. With thorough planning and attention to detail, your first event is sure to be a memorable one. If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed or you just don’t know where to start, Planit Events Inc is here for you! Send us a message, and we’d be happy to assist!
3 Budget-Friendly Event Planning Tips: How to Cut Costs Without Sacrificing Quality
3 Budget-Friendly Event Planning Tips: How to Cut Costs Without Sacrificing Quality
When it comes to event planning, managing costs while maintaining high quality can be challenging. However, with careful planning and smart decision-making, it is possible to create memorable events on a limited budget. Today, we will explore three useful tips that will help you cut costs without compromising the quality of your event. From strategic vendor selection to creative budget allocation, these tips will empower you to organize successful events that impress your guests without breaking the bank.
Strategic Vendor Selection
One of the best ways to reduce event costs without compromising quality is through your vendor selection. Vendors play a huge role in executing various aspects of an event, such as catering, decorations, and entertainment, but here’s how you can make strategic choices to save money:
- Get Multiple Quotes: Rather than settling for the first vendor you come across, get quotes from multiple vendors for each service. Compare their prices, quality of work, and reviews to make an informed decision. This comparison can help you negotiate better rates and find vendors who offer the best value for your budget.
- Seek Non-Traditional Suppliers: Think outside the box when selecting vendors. Explore local community organizations, art schools, or culinary institutes that may offer services at more affordable rates.
- Consider Package Deals: Many vendors offer package deals that include multiple services at a discounted price. For example, an event rental company might provide bundled packages for furniture, lighting, and audiovisual equipment. By opting for these packages, you can save significant costs and simplify the coordination process.
Smart Budget Allocation
Allocating your budget is key to organizing a successful event while keeping expenses under control. Here are some tips to help you allocate your budget wisely:
- Prioritize Must-Have Elements: Identify the essential aspects of your event that will have the most significant impact on the overall experience. These may include high-quality food and beverages, a captivating entertainment program, or professional photography. Allocate a significant portion of your budget to these must-have elements while being more flexible with other areas that may not be as critical.
- Optimize Venue Selection: The venue cost can often be a significant portion of the overall budget. To save money, consider unconventional venues such as community centers, parks, or art galleries that offer affordable rental options. Additionally, look for venues that provide built-in amenities like tables, chairs, and audiovisual equipment, reducing the need for additional rentals. Looking for a unique venue in Edmonton, check out our blog!
- DIY Decor and Personalization: Embrace your creativity and incorporate do-it-yourself (DIY) decor elements to add a personalized touch to your event. Explore cost-effective decor options like handmade centerpieces, signage, or creative table settings. Engage volunteers or enlist the help of friends and family to keep costs low while still achieving an elegant and unique ambiance. Need some inspiration for decor ideas? Check out, Decor Crate!
Efficient Resource Management
Effective resource management plays a key role in keeping event expenses in check. Consider the following to optimize your resources and minimize unnecessary costs:
- Streamline Invitations and Communication: Traditional paper invitations can be expensive to design, print, and mail. Instead, consider digital platforms to send electronic invitations and manage RSVPs. Utilize social media, email newsletters, and event websites to communicate with attendees, share updates, and provide necessary information.
- Collaborate with Sponsors and Partners: Seek out potential sponsors or partners who align with the event’s theme or target audience. Sponsors can provide financial assistance or contribute in-kind services, such as free giveaways, promotional materials, or guest speakers. Collaborating with sponsors and partners can help offset costs and enhance the overall event experience.
- Efficient Time Management: The old saying “time is money” holds true for event planning. By optimizing your time management skills and ensuring efficient coordination among your team members, you can prevent last-minute rushes, costly errors, and unnecessary overtime expenses. Create detailed timelines, delegate responsibilities, and maintain open communication channels to maximize productivity and minimize potential budget overruns. And remember to delegate tasks you simply do not have time for.
Organizing a successful event on a limited budget requires strategic planning and resourcefulness. By implementing the budget-friendly event planning tips discussed in this blog post, you can cut costs and still throw a memorable event. If you need help getting started, Planit Events Inc is here to help! Send us a message or visit our website to learn more.
4 Effective Strategies to Improve Your Trade Show Exhibit
4 Effective Strategies to Improve Your Trade Show Exhibit
Trade shows provide a great opportunity for businesses to showcase their products or services, connect with potential customers, and generate leads. However, just participating in a trade show isn’t enough to guarantee success. To truly stand out and make a lasting impression, exhibitors must go in with a plan. In this blog post, we’ll explore four key strategies to enhance your trade show exhibit and maximize your chances of achieving your goals.
Pre-show Planning and Promotion
The success of your trade show exhibit begins long before the event itself. Adequate pre-show planning and promotion are essential for generating buzz, attracting attendees, and making the most of your investment. So when the event sends you social media graphics to help promote you being a vendor, use them!
Set Clear Objectives
Define your goals for the trade show, such as lead generation, brand awareness, or networking. Establish specific and measurable objectives to guide your efforts.
Do Your Research
Thoroughly understand the trade show’s target audience, attendee demographics, and industry trends. Tailor your booth design, marketing materials, and promotional strategies to align with the event’s theme and objectives.
Promote Your Presence
Leverage various marketing channels to create anticipation and excitement about your exhibit. Utilize social media, email marketing, and your website to inform your audience about your participation, and any exclusive offers or activities planned.
Schedule Meetings
Reach out to existing clients and prospects before the trade show to arrange meetings or demonstrations during the event. Having a pre-planned agenda will ensure that your time is optimized, and that you can focus on building meaningful connections.
Booth Design
To capture attendees’ attention amidst a sea of exhibitors, your booth design should be visually appealing and engaging. Here are some things to consider:
- Clear Branding: Ensure your branding is prominent and consistent throughout the booth. Use well-designed banners, signage, and displays that communicate your brand’s message effectively.
- Interactive Elements: Incorporate interactive elements such as touch screens, virtual reality experiences, or product demonstrations. These engaging activities will attract visitors and encourage them to spend more time at your booth.
- Comfortable Seating Areas: Provide comfortable seating areas within your booth to facilitate conversations. A relaxed atmosphere encourages attendees to spend more time interacting with your team.
- Lighting and Colors: Utilize appropriate lighting to highlight your products or displays. Choose colors that align with your brand identity.
For some fun swag ideas check out my blog.
Staff Training and Engagement
The team you have at your booth plays a key role in representing your brand, and creating a positive experience for visitors. Proper training and engagement are essential for maximizing your trade show results.
Staff Knowledge
Ensure your team is well-versed in your products or services, industry trends, and frequently asked questions. They should be able to provide accurate and compelling information to attendees.
Engaging Interactions
Encourage your booth staff to be proactive and approachable. Train them to initiate conversations, ask open-ended questions, and listen attentively to visitors’ needs. Building meaningful connections is key.
Lead Capture Strategy
Implement a lead capture system that enables your staff to collect relevant information from potential customers. Utilize technology such as tablets or lead retrieval devices to streamline the process. Check with the event organizers as many events now offer lead retrieval!
Staff Motivation
Keep your team motivated throughout the trade show by recognizing their efforts, providing breaks, and creating a supportive environment. Encourage them to share their experiences and insights to continuously improve your exhibiting strategy.
Post-show Follow-up and Evaluation
The work doesn’t end when the trade show concludes. Post-show follow-up and evaluation are vital for maintaining the connections made and determining the success of your exhibiting efforts.
- Lead Follow-up: Promptly follow up with the leads you collected during the trade show. Send personalized emails or make phone calls to express gratitude for their visit and further nurture the relationship. Provide additional information, answer questions, and offer any promotions discussed during the event.
- Evaluate Your Performance: Assess the success of your trade show exhibit by analyzing key metrics such as lead conversion rates, attendee engagement, and return on investment. Use this data to identify areas for improvement and refine your strategy for future events.
- Gather Feedback: Reach out to your booth staff, attendees, and clients to gather feedback on their experience. Their insights can provide valuable information on what worked well and what could be enhanced in future trade shows. Consider sending out surveys or conducting interviews to gather comprehensive feedback.
For additional tips on evaluating the event, visit my blog.
A successful trade show exhibit requires strategic planning, engaging booth design, well-trained staff, and thorough follow-up. By implementing these four strategies you can significantly enhance your trade show exhibiting experience. Remember that consistency, adaptability, and continuous improvement are key factors in achieving long-term success. With careful preparation and a commitment to excellence, your next trade show can become a valuable platform for growth, networking, and increasing your brand’s visibility in the industry.
Re-Cap of the 20th Alberta Health & Safety Conference
Re-Cap of the 20th Alberta Health & Safety Conference
Some of you may know, but I have been quite busy in the last few weeks as I’ve just wrapped up the 20th Alberta Health and Safety Conference. This was my seventh year planning the conference and it is always such an honor. The Alberta Health and Safety Conference is an annual event aimed at promoting workplace safety. The conference brings together health and safety professionals, employers, employees, and government representatives to share knowledge and best practices for preventing workplace injuries and illnesses. The event features keynote speakers, educational sessions, and networking opportunities, and covers topics such as safety culture, mental health, hazard assessment, and risk management. The conference also includes an exhibition (The Safety Hall) showcasing the latest products and services in health and safety. In celebration of another successful conference, I thought I’d share key tips for event planners, exhibitors, and attendees on getting the most out of your upcoming conference.
For Event Planners
I love planning for this conference in particular but that being said it still takes a tonne of manpower to get the conference planned and executed. Here are a few tips that event planners can take away from my experience planning this conference.
Tip #1: Create a Tracking Sheet
If you’ve been in the event planning industry for a while, you’re probably used to working with different vendors for different things, all of which have different deadlines. Sometimes these deadlines and tasks can be forgotten so do yourself a favor and create a tracking sheet to include:
- The task
- The due date
- Who is responsible for the delivery of the task
- The task status (I like to colour code this)
- Notes related to the task
Tip #2: Schedule Social Media Posts Ahead of Time
If you’re in charge of executing an event, social media posts may be the last thing on your mind. You have other things that are more time sensitive to worry about. What I like to do is schedule social media posts ahead of them (the crucial ones) using a scheduling tool (I like to use SmarterQueue), so you can focus on the event. In any downtime, you can snap a few photos or take a short video and post it to the event’s social media, but either way, there will not be silence on the social media channels.
For Exhibitors
One of my favorite aspects of the Alberta Health and Safety Conference is the Safety Hall which is full of all sorts of exhibitors showcasing their new cutting-edge technology, products, and services. Exhibiting at events related to your industry provides many benefits:
- Increase brand awareness
- Network with your target audience
- Showcase your products/services to the right audience
- Get in front of decision-makers
After this year’s conference, I have a few tips to share with future exhibitors for any conference!
Tip 1: Find a Unique Way to Draw People to Your Booth
There were so many fantastic exhibitors at this year’s conference, but one booth that really generated some attention was Alberta Motor Transport Association’s booth. This year they brought in a driving simulator which was not only unique from other booths but also helped demonstrate their brand proposition. When thinking about what to bring for your booth, think about your audience and what is going to drive them to come and chat with you.
Tip 2: Bring Fun Swag
Swag is a great way to get people to visit your booth which gives you the opportunity to drum up a conversation. But deciding what swag to bring can be difficult, especially if it’s your first time exhibiting at a new conference you haven’t attended before. At this year’s conference swag ranged from earphones, hand lotion, chapstick, pens, notepads, reusable bags, and more! Here are three great rules to follow when picking swag for an upcoming event:
- Will my target audience use the item?
- Can I display my organization’s branding on it?
- Can I use the swag as a talking point or to dremel up a conversation?
For Attendees
Tip #1: Take Advantage of as Much of the Conference as You Can
When you look at the event agenda, you usually pick out the sessions you want to attend, but it’s important to remember there’s so much more! Try attending sessions that normally wouldn’t interest you and you may be surprised at what you take away from it. If you weren’t anticipating checking out the trade show hall, take a look anyway. You’d be surprised at the networking opportunities and many organizations go out of their way to include a fun experience at their booth!
If you missed attending, exhibiting, or sponsoring the Alberta Health and Safety Conference this year, don’t worry the conference will return in May 2024. For more information, follow the Alberta Health and Safety Conference Social media accounts.
If you have any questions about planning your upcoming event or are looking for someone to take the load off, Planit Events Inc. is experienced in all sorts of events! Send us a message and we would be happy to chat.
8 Important Questions to Ask Your Event Planner
8 Important Questions to Ask Your Event Planner
Organizing an event can be overwhelming, but working with a professional event planner can help ease the stress and ensure that your event is a success. However, not all event planners are the same, and it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure that you’re working with the right event planner who can deliver the results you want. In today’s blog, I’m going to share eight questions you should ask potential event planners before you make the decision on which is the best fit for you and your event.
What types of events do you specialize in?
Not all event professionals are experienced in every type of event, so it’s important to ask about their areas of expertise. If you’re planning a corporate event, for example, you may want to work with an event planner who has experience in that industry and can provide references from previous clients. If you’re planning a wedding, you’ll want to work with an event planner who specializes in weddings and can offer insights and recommendations for vendors, venues, and other important aspects of the event.
How do you approach budgeting?
Budgeting is a critical part of event planning, and you’ll want to work with an event planner who is transparent about their fees and can work within your budget. Ask your event planner how they approach budgeting. Do they provide estimates for different aspects of the event? It is good practice as an event planner to offer suggestions for cost-saving measures that won’t compromise the quality of the event.
Can you provide references from previous clients?
One of the best ways to evaluate an event planner’s experience and professionalism is to ask for references from previous clients. This will give you a sense of their communication style, attention to detail, and ability to deliver results. Ask for references from clients who have hosted similar events to yours, and follow up with them to get a sense of their experience working with the event planner.
How do you handle event logistics?
Event logistics are complex and time-consuming, and it’s important to work with an event planner who has a detailed plan for managing logistics. Ask your event planner how they handle things like vendor coordination, transportation, and guest management. It is good practice to have a detailed timeline and contingency plans in place to ensure that everything runs smoothly.
How do you communicate with clients?
Clear communication is essential when working with an event planner, so it’s important to ask about their communication style and how they keep clients informed throughout the planning process. Ask your event planner how they prefer to communicate (email, phone, in-person meetings) and how often they provide updates. What is the guaranteed response time window? You should also ask whether they are available outside of regular business hours in case of emergencies.
What is your process for selecting vendors?
Vendors can make or break an event, so it’s important to work with an event planner who has a process for selecting vendors that are reliable and provide high-quality services. It is an extra bonus if your event planner has good relationships with vendors you may be interested in or that fit your event. Ask your event planner how they select vendors, what criteria they use, and whether they have established relationships with vendors in your area. A good event planner will have a list of preferred vendors that they can recommend based on your budget and preferences.
How do you handle unexpected issues on the day of the event?
Even with the best planning, unexpected issues can arise on the day of the event. Ask your event planner how they handle unexpected issues, and whether they have a contingency plan in place. You should also ask whether they have experience dealing with emergencies and whether they have insurance to cover any potential liability issues.
What is your cancellation policy?
Finally, it’s important to ask about your event planner’s cancellation policy in case unforeseen circumstances arise that prevent you from hosting the event. Make sure you understand the terms of the cancellation policy, including any fees or penalties, and whether they have a process for rescheduling the event.
Finding the right event planning professional for your event won’t happen overnight, but using the questions above will help give you a better idea of which is the best fit for your event. As always, Planit Events Inc. is always here to help. If you have any questions or would like to chat with us to see if we would be a good fit, don’t hesitate to reach out.
3 Unique Venues in Edmonton for Your Next Event
3 Unique Venues in Edmonton for Your Next Event
If you’re looking for a unique place to host your upcoming event you’re in the right place! Edmonton is a city that continues to grow and with that more venues are becoming available. In this blog, I have three different suggestions to provide however, don’t let these limit you! There are so many unique locations in Edmonton to host your event that I couldn’t possibly name them all but this blog is here to give you a starting point. Whether you’re planning a business conference, a wedding, or a social gathering, there is a venue in Edmonton that is perfect for your event.
The Art Gallery of Alberta
The Art Gallery of Alberta is an iconic Edmonton landmark, located in the heart of downtown that showcases a modern exterior and a rich history. The gallery holds a diverse collection of art from various artists and periods. The gallery offers a variety of event spaces available for rent, including the Ledcor Theatre, Manning Hall, and more!
Each of these event spaces offers unique specs. The Ledcor Theatre seats up to 150 guests and is fully equipped with a high-quality sound system, lighting, and projection capabilities, making it an ideal venue for presentations, screenings, and performances. Manning Hall offers space for up to 350 guests and is great for conferences, receptions, and banquets. The Manning Hall features the gallery’s unique architecture and will definitely leave an impression on your guests. Visit the Art Gallery of Alberta website to learn more about the different spaces and find which one is most suitable for your event.
The Muttart Conservatory
The Muttart Conservatory is a garden located in the heart of Edmonton’s river valley. The conservatory is home to four glass pyramids, each with a unique biome. The conservatory offers a number of unique rental spaces with the largest capacity accommodating 200 people.
The beautiful backdrop of plants and flowers has made the conservatory a popular venue for weddings and galas. Cafe Bloom is the in-house catering service that can provide a customized array of food for whatever event you may be hosting. To learn more about the Muttart Conservatory event rental spaces, visit their website.
The Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
Ok hear me out, I know when you first think of NAIT you think of the hustle and bustle of students shuffling to their next class, however, NAIT offers a wide variety of unique rental spaces for all sorts of events. There are numerous theaters and conference rooms, an atrium, the Glass Box, and even an outdoor patio (for the warmer months of course)! I’ve personally coordinated events at NAIT like the Alberta Health and Safety Conference last spring. The event team there was fabulous and the Productivity and Innovation Centre was the perfect fit for the event. To learn more about NAIT’s venues, visit their website.
Finding the perfect venue comes down to more than just the look and feel of the venue, as you start your event planning journey, pick a few venues that you feel will portray the right feeling to your audience for the event you’re planning. If you need expert advice or a place to start, Planit Events Inc., is here to help. Send me a message and I would be happy to help you along your event planning journey.
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My Top 3 Edmonton Event Venues
My Top 3 Edmonton Event Venues
Wow, I can’t believe we’re already a few weeks into the new year! I hope everyone enjoyed the holiday season and was able to spend some quality time with their loved ones and get a little rest and relaxation. I had a great time taking some well-deserved time off to spend quality time with my family and prepare myself for a new and busy year. So with that, I thought I’d start this year off by sharing my top three venues in Edmonton. This was a tough list to narrow down because there are so many great venues in the city.
Edmonton Convention Centre
If you follow me on Instagram, you may have seen a Follow Friday post in December about the Edmonton Convention Centre. I’ve worked with them many times in the past and trust me, I will definitely be working with them again in the future. The staff are amazing and super easy to work with and are very talented with handling special requests for any type of event. I love the Edmonton Convention Centre, not only for the services they provide but because they are so versatile! ECC is a great venue regardless of the size of the event you are hosting, whether it is a smaller business meeting, conference, tradeshow, holiday party, or even wedding! Other great factors include:
- Close to the heart of downtown
- Large space to accommodate guest lists of all sizes
- Beautiful view of the river valley
- Have experience hosting vast types of events
- Great accessibility
Edmonton Expo Centre
I’ve also done a Follow Friday post on this venue as well, the Edmonton Expo Centre. I recently planned an event there in partnership with CM Events, the Africa Day Gala. The team at the Expo Centre was so helpful and went above and beyond my expectations! Similar to the Edmonton Convention Centre, the Expo Centre is large enough to host functions like tradeshows, concerts, and corporate holiday parties, but they also cater to smaller events like meetings. The venue is located just off Wayne Gretzky drive and is close to the Edmonton downtown core, making it easily accessible from all parts of the city. Other great perks include:
- Lots of parking
- Multiple floor plans to accommodate all types of events
- Great accessibility
- Close to the LRT line
[Africa Day Gala 2022, hosted at the Edmonton Expo Centre]
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT)
In 2022, I helped coordinate the 19th Alberta Health and Safety Conference which was hosted at NAIT in the Productivity and Innovation Centre. The building was beautiful and comfortably hosted the event. NAIT isn’t always thought of as a venue, but let me tell you, they did not disappoint. They have the ability to host various sizes of events and their event services team is a delight to work with. Great things about NAIT as a venue include:
- Lots of parking
- Great accessibility
- Equipment rental
- Ability to chose or customize the menu options
- Central location
[Alberta Health and Safety Conference 2022, hosted at NAIT’s Productivity & Innovation Centre]
It’s been such a pleasure to work with so many different venues over my career and I’m so excited to try out new ones in the future. I, unfortunately, couldn’t list all of the amazing venues I’ve used in my past but if you need help finding the right venue for your event, send me a message and I’d be happy to learn about your event and recommend the right venue.
2022 Re-Cap of Edmonton Event Trends and What to Expect in 2023
2022 Re-Cap of Edmonton Event Trends and What to Expect in 2023
I can’t believe another year has flown by! It’s been an incredible year getting back to in-person events and to say I’ve been busy would be a complete understatement. The 2022 events year was so unique to any other year. So let’s take a deeper dive into this last year in the events world and reflect on some of the trends I’ve noticed and what we can expect moving into the new year.
Return of In-Person Events (Hybrid Events still a focus)
I can’t tell you how amazing it was getting back to in-person events, after what felt like an eternity. It was fabulous to see so many familiar faces and make new connections. One of the most notable trends of 2022, was although we got back to in-person events, online events did not decrease. In fact, many events have pivoted to a hybrid model, accommodating those who want to attend in person and those who wish to attend virtually; the best of both worlds! With that, there has been an increased budget for online event software to help accommodate and deliver a seamless virtual event.
Hybrid events have become popular over the last few years due to a few key reasons:
- Attending virtually allows flexibility in busy schedules
- Ability to watch recorded sessions after
- Attending virtually eliminates all travel costs
- Virtual tickets are usually discounted
Moving into the new year, if you think that your event may perform well as a hybrid event I encourage you to test it out! Keep in mind that hosting a hybrid event does take more planning as essentially you are planning two events in one day.
For tips on hosting a hybrid event, check out my blog.
Events for Brand Awareness
Many organizations, especially post-pandemic, are seeing that hosting or sponsoring events can generate great brand awareness. Whether it is an online, hybrid, or an in-person event, these can create a buzz around your organization and provide many benefits. Some of these events consist of educational workshops, webinars, networking events, fundraisers and so much more!
If you’re thinking of hosting a networking event in the new year, check out my blog!
Data Collection
Data, data, data! I’m sure you keep hearing the word data over and over again, but it’s for a good reason! Data can help you fine-tune your events so well that you are giving your audience and attendees the exact content/event they are looking to attend. Data collection is being focused on in many industries and in the events industry, it can be just as beneficial. So how has data been collected? Through registration portals, surveys, questionnaires, and interviews. Moving into the new year, consider reviewing your data collection methods and ensure that they are sufficient and responsible.
Focus on Recovering/Pivoting from the Pandemic
As we began to recover from the effects of the pandemic in 2022, many events focused on recovering and pivoting from the pandemic. This was very beneficial to attendees as it brought in expert advice and industry opinions to help other similar businesses find a way for themselves to transition into the new phase. An example of this is an event I help organize yearly, the Alberta Health and Safety Conference. The 2022 theme was Preparing for the Unexpected: Lessons Learned. Professionals gathered from all across Alberta to meet and discuss the theme among themselves and learn from industry experts and trends.
Eco-Friendly Options
This trend isn’t just apparent in the events industry, but it is being seen across many. Moving towards eco-friendly options has been a trend that is gaining more traction each year and will continue to do so. Moving forward into the new year, brainstorm where you may be able to incorporate a few eco-friendly options. Some examples may include using less disposable plastics, using biodegradable or reusable cutlery, using recyclable materials, providing shuttle services, or choosing a green venue. There are lots of different ways to start incorporating these options, you will just need to decide what is right for your event and guests.
Stronger Focus on Health and Safety
The pandemic brought in many new trends, one of which was placing a stronger focus on health and safety with in-person events. Some of the key takeaways include:
- Contactless check-in
- Health reminders
- Sanitization stations
I don’t predict that these new standards will disappear so if you aren’t already doing it, review your current health and safety standards for your event and see where improvements can be made.
So what can you do to prepare for the upcoming year of events?
- Decide if your event can be converted to a hybrid event. Is it worth it for your organization to pivot toward the trend?
- If you aren’t hosting events yet, consider if it’s time to start to help generate brand awareness.
- Ensure that you are collecting data effectively and responsibly.
- Can eco-friendly options be implemented into your upcoming events?
- Review your health and safety policy to see where improvements can be made.
Events aren’t always easy and sometimes trying new ideas can be a bit daunting. Planit Events Inc. is well-rehearsed and can offer you advice, recommendations, or even plan the entirety of your event to ensure that it runs as smoothly as possible and your guests are ecstatic. Contact us to learn more, or check out our Corporate Event Planning and Trade Show page!
3 Best Ways to Find Exhibitors for Your Upcoming Event
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