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.
10 Events in Edmonton this Summer You Need to Visit
10 Events in Edmonton this Summer You Need to Visit
As the weather warms up and the days get longer, Edmonton comes alive with an array of events and activities. From cultural festivals to outdoor concerts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the summer months. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, here are some must-attend events happening in Edmonton from May to August that you won’t want to miss.
Edmonton Craft Beer Festival (May 28-29)
Kick off your summer with a refreshing sip of local brews at the Edmonton Craft Beer Festival. Held at the Edmonton Expo Centre, this two-day event brings together over 500 craft beers from more than 100 breweries, making it a beer lover’s paradise. Sample a wide variety of beers, ciders, and spirits, and indulge in delicious food from local vendors. With live music and interactive games, this festival is a lively celebration of Edmonton’s thriving craft beer scene.
Edmonton Pride Festival (June 10-19)
Celebrate diversity and inclusivity at the Edmonton Pride Festival, a 10-day event that aims to promote LGBTQ2S+ rights and acceptance. The festival features a wide range of activities, including a pride parade, live performances, drag shows, panel discussions, and art exhibits.
The Works Art & Design Festival (June 20 – July 2)
Immerse yourself in the world of art and design at The Works Art & Design Festival, one of the largest free outdoor art events in North America. Held in the heart of downtown Edmonton, this 13-day festival features over 300 exhibits, including visual arts, music, dance, and more. Explore the outdoor gallery of large-scale art installations, take part in hands-on workshops, and enjoy live performances from local artists. It’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts and a celebration of creativity in all its forms.
Edmonton International Street Performers Festival (July 5-14)
Prepare to be entertained at the Edmonton International Street Performers Festival, an Edmonton classic, that brings together world-class street performers from around the globe. Held in Sir Winston Churchill Square, this 10-day festival features jaw-dropping acrobatics, mesmerizing magic tricks, hilarious comedy acts, and more. Watch as the streets of Edmonton come alive with incredible performances that will leave you amazed and delighted.
K-Days (July 22-31)
For 10 days of thrilling rides, delicious food, and exciting entertainment, head to K-Days, Edmonton’s largest summer festival. Held at the Edmonton Expo Centre grounds, K-Days is a beloved event that draws crowds of all ages. From exhilarating rides to mouthwatering carnival treats, this festival has something for everyone. Enjoy live music, games, and exhibitions, and don’t miss the nightly fireworks display. K-Days is a summer tradition in Edmonton that promises fun and excitement for the whole family. I know I’ll be going just for the mini donuts!
Edmonton Heritage Festival (August 6-8)
Experience the rich cultural diversity of Edmonton at the Edmonton Heritage Festival, a three-day celebration of food, music, and traditions from around the world. The site is to be announced at a later date. This annual event features pavilions representing different countries and cultures, where you can sample authentic cuisines, watch cultural performances, and learn about different customs and traditions. With over 100 pavilions, the Edmonton Heritage Festival is a feast for the senses and a celebration of Edmonton’s multiculturalism.
Edmonton Folk Music Festival (August 10-13)
Get your toes tapping and your soul singing at the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, a four-day celebration of music, culture, and community. Held at Gallagher Park with a stunning view of the city skyline, this iconic festival features performances by local and international folk, roots, and indie musicians. With multiple stages, workshops, and food vendors, it’s a festive atmosphere where you can enjoy live music and connect with fellow music lovers. If you plan on attending get your tickets ahead of time as they are known for selling out quickly.
Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival (August 11-21)
Get ready for an explosion of creativity and performance at the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival, one of the largest and oldest fringe festivals in North America. Held in the historic Old Strathcona neighborhood, this 11-day event features over 1,500 performances by local, national, and international artists. From theater and comedy to dance and music, the Fringe Festival offers a diverse range of shows that are sure to captivate and entertain. Explore the bustling outdoor street performers’ scene, indulge in delicious street food, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this unique and dynamic festival.
River Valley Adventure Co. Outdoor Concerts (May to August)
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Edmonton’s River Valley while enjoying live music at the River Valley Adventure Co. outdoor concerts. Held at various locations throughout the River Valley from May to August, these concerts feature local musicians playing a variety of genres, from folk and rock to jazz and blues. Pack a picnic, bring a blanket, and relax in the stunning natural setting of the River Valley while listening to talented musicians serenade you with their melodies.
Farmers’ Markets (Various Dates)
Edmonton is known for its vibrant farmers’ markets, and summer is the perfect time to explore the local produce, crafts, and goodies on offer. From the City Market Downtown on Saturdays to the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market on Saturdays and Sundays, and the 124 Grand Market on Thursdays, these markets are a great way to support local vendors, discover fresh produce, and immerse yourself in the community spirit of Edmonton. Don’t forget about the markets just outside of Edmonton too! Come visit Market 192 on Tuesdays in the town of Tofield. To learn more about Market 192 visit our website.
Outdoor Movies in the Park (Various Dates)
Enjoy a movie night under the stars at one of Edmonton’s outdoor movie screenings in the park. From movies in the park organized by the City of Edmonton to special outdoor screenings at different locations throughout the city, you can catch a classic or recent blockbuster while lounging on a blanket or sitting in a lawn chair. It’s a fun and relaxing way to enjoy a summer evening for a date or a night out with the family!
Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready to make the most of the summer season in Edmonton. Don’t miss out on these must-attend events that showcase the best of what the city has to offer and create lasting memories of a summer filled with fun, entertainment, and community spirit.
8 Tips to Find Your Perfect Wedding Dress
8 Tips to Find Your Perfect Wedding Dress
Your wedding day is one of the most special days of your life, and choosing the perfect wedding dress is an essential part of making your day unforgettable. But where do you start? From the style to the budget, there are several factors to consider. In today’s blog, I’ll share my top eight tips to help you on your wedding dress journey!
Start Early
Your dress or outfit is a vital part of the planning process so I always recommend starting early! Starting early will give you enough time to browse through various styles, designers, and shops to find the perfect one that was made for you. Ideally, you should start looking for your dress at least 9 to 12 months before your wedding day. This way, you have enough time to order, make any necessary alterations, and make sure it fits perfectly.
Set a Budget
The cost of a wedding dress can vary from a couple hundred to a few thousand dollars. Before you start shopping it’s important to consider your budget. Your budget will determine the type of dress you can afford and the designers you can work with. It will also help the wonderful sales associates at the store you’re browsing to bring you options that fit your budget. Now, remember, that a beautiful dress doesn’t have to cost a fortune. There are so many affordable options available that are just as stunning.
Research Styles
There are several wedding dress styles to choose from, including ball gowns, A-line, mermaid, sheath, and more. Each style has its unique features and fits different body types. It’s important to do some research on the styles that interest you and see how they look on your body type. This will help you narrow down your choices and find a dress that flatters your body shape. I always recommend starting on Pinterest to give you an idea of the type of dress you’re looking for! It can be helpful to save these “inspiration” photos to bring with you when you start shopping.
Consider the Venue
Your wedding venue can influence the style of the dress you choose. For example, if you’re having an outdoor wedding, you may want to consider a lightweight dress that won’t weigh you down. On the other hand, if you’re having a formal wedding in a ballroom, a full-length ball gown may be more appropriate.
Shop with an Open Mind
While it’s important to have an idea of the style of dress you want, it’s also essential to keep an open mind when shopping. You may find that the dress you thought you wanted doesn’t look as good as you thought it would, or that a dress you could never picture yourself in looks stunning and hugs your body in all of the right places. This is exactly what happened to me when I was wedding dress shopping! Try on different styles and designs to see what works for you. You may be surprised at how a dress you never considered could be the one.
Bring a Trusted Friend(s) and/or Family Member(s)
Shopping for a wedding dress can be overwhelming, and it’s always helpful to have a trusted friend or family member with you. They can offer a second opinion and provide support when making a decision. But remember, ultimately this is your decision. It’s great to have input but choose the dress that’s right for you!
Consider Customization
When you start to try on dresses, you might not love all of the features or you may feel like something’s missing. Customization is usually an option so talk to the sales associate working with you! Many dresses allow you to add sleeves, customize the length of the train, and more!
Pay Attention to the Fabric
The fabric of a dress can significantly impact its look and feel. It’s important to choose a fabric that’s comfortable and fits the occasion. For example, if you’re having an outdoor wedding, you may want to consider a lightweight fabric that breathes well. On the other hand, if you’re having a winter wedding, a heavier fabric may be more appropriate. It’s important to choose a fabric that not only looks good but feels good too!
Courtney’s Recommendations:
There are plenty of wedding dress shops in Edmonton, each with its own unique style and selection. I thought I’d share a few shops with great reviews to get you started!
Delica Bridal
I purchased my wedding dress from Delica Bridal and the experience was great! They were so easy to work with, made it fun, and I felt amazing in the dress I chose (with the help of their wonderful team). The shop is located in the south end of Edmonton and they offer a wide range of designer dresses with a vast price range as well. I recommend visiting Delica Bridal when you start your wedding dress journey.
Novelle Bridal Shop
Novelle Bridal Shop is located in the heart of downtown Edmonton and is known for its exceptional customer service and designer dresses. The shop has a variety of wedding dresses from designers such as Hayley Paige, Lazaro, and Watters. The shop’s consultants will work closely with you to understand your vision and help you find a dress that fits your style and budget. This is a great shop to start at due to its wide variety of styles ranging from classic, modern, and bohemian.
Pure Bridal
Pure Bridal is a family-owned bridal boutique that has been in business for over a decade. The shop has a beautiful selection of wedding dresses from designers such as Maggie Sottero, Rebecca Ingram, and Mori Lee. Pure Bridal also offers an exclusive collection of plus-size wedding dresses for curvier brides.
Trust your instincts and consider alterations to ensure the perfect fit. With these tips and the shops mentioned above, you’re sure to find the perfect wedding dress for your special day.
4 Top Edmonton Venues – The Wedding Edition
4 Top Edmonton Venues – The Wedding Edition
Edmonton, a place many of us call home doesn’t always seem like the most exciting place to host your wedding, but I promise you there are some wonderful wedding venues to consider! Whether you are looking for a grand luxurious venue or a cozy intimate setting, there is something for everyone. In this blog, we will be exploring some of my favorite wedding venues, including the Foundry Room, Pioneers Cabin, Royal Glenora Club, Mirage Banquet Hall, and Polar Park Brewing Co. So let’s jump right into it!
The Foundry Room
The Foundry Room is a beautifully restored historic building located in the heart of Edmonton’s downtown core. This venue is perfect for couples looking for a unique, industrial-style wedding. The space features high ceilings, exposed brick walls, and large windows that flood the room with natural light. The Foundry Room can accommodate up to 120 guests for a seated dinner or up to 200 guests for a cocktail-style reception.
One of the unique features of the Foundry Room is the built-in bar, which is made from reclaimed wood and steel. The bar provides a perfect focal point for your guests to gather around and enjoy a drink while mingling. Additionally, the venue offers a variety of lighting options, including string lights and chandeliers, to create the perfect ambiance for your wedding.
To learn more about the Foundry Room, visit the website.
Pioneers Cabin
If you are looking for a rustic and intimate wedding venue, then Pioneers Cabin is a great option. Located in Whitemud Park, this historic log cabin offers a cozy and intimate setting for your special day. The cabin can accommodate up to 60 guests for a seated dinner or up to 100 guests for a cocktail-style reception.
The interior of Pioneers Cabin features exposed log walls, hardwood floors, and a beautiful stone fireplace. The cabin also has a small stage, which is perfect for a live band or DJ. The cabin has a fully equipped kitchen, which is perfect for catering your wedding reception.
One of the unique features of Pioneers Cabin is its outdoor space. The cabin is surrounded by a beautiful forested area, which is perfect for taking wedding photos or for hosting an outdoor ceremony. There is also a large deck attached to the cabin, which is perfect for enjoying cocktails and appetizers with your guests.
To learn more about Pioneer’s Cabin, visit the website.
Royal Glenora Club
The Royal Glenora Club is a luxurious wedding venue located in the heart of Edmonton’s river valley. This venue offers stunning views of the North Saskatchewan River and the city skyline. The Royal Glenora Club can accommodate up to 300 guests for a seated dinner or up to 500 guests for a cocktail-style reception.
The interior of the Royal Glenora Club is elegant and sophisticated, featuring chandeliers, marble floors, and beautiful artwork. The venue also has several private rooms, which are perfect for hosting a smaller wedding reception or for getting ready before the ceremony.
One of the unique features of the Royal Glenora Club is its outdoor space. The venue has several outdoor patios, which are perfect for enjoying cocktails and appetizers with your guests. Additionally, the venue has a beautiful outdoor ceremony space, which features a pergola and stunning views of the river valley.
To learn more about the Royal Glenora Club, visit the website.
Mirage Banquet Hall
Mirage Banquet Hall is a versatile wedding venue located in the north end of Edmonton. This venue offers a variety of rooms to choose from, depending on the size and style of your wedding. Mirage Banquet Hall can accommodate up to 800 guests for a seated dinner or up to 1200 guests for a cocktail-style reception.
The interior of Mirage Banquet Hall is elegant and modern, featuring high ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and a neutral color palette that can be customized to match your wedding theme. The venue also has a large dance floor, which is perfect for dancing the night away.
To learn more about Mirage Banquet Hall, visit the website.
Edmonton offers a variety of wedding venues to choose from, each with its own unique features and charm. Whether you are looking for a rustic log cabin or a luxurious country club, there is a venue for every couple. Need help choosing a venue to suit your style and logistics, send me a message and I would be happy to help, or check out my blog on choosing your perfect venue!
The Best 2023 Spring Events in Edmonton
2023 Spring Events in Edmonton
I know the cool weather and snow are really starting to get to a lot of us (myself included), so I thought I would share some fun events that are happening in Edmonton this spring to help us push through the rest of the chilly weather! One thing I love about Edmonton is how many events we have going on year-round! I couldn’t name all the events going on but I picked a few of my favorites for you to check out!
International Festival of Winter Cinema
There’s no event quite like this one! The International Festival of Winter Cinema runs from February 10-19 at Hawrelak Park. This is a great free, family-friendly event that takes place outdoors. Bundle up and fill up your thermos with hot chocolate and check out some original films submitted by artists worldwide. To learn more about the event, visit their website.
Edmonton Career Fair & Training Expo
Swing by the Edmonton Convention Centre on February 22 to open up a wide range of opportunities. If you’re thinking about a career change or maybe looking into training, the Edmonton Career Fair and Training Expo is a great way to get started! To learn more about the event and ticket (free) information, visit their website.
Winefest Edmonton
Are you looking to fulfill your dreams of becoming a sommelier or perhaps you want to try some new wines, check out the Winefest Edmonton at the Edmonton Convention Centre from February 24-25. This is a great event for a date night or a night out with pals. To learn more about the event or to purchase tickets, visit their website.
Women and Wealth Gala Edmonton
If you’re a woman who believes in empowering other women, this is an event for you! Come on down to the Edmonton Convention Centre on March 4 to be surrounded by other like-minded women to learn, share, and empower. As an attendee, you will have access to wonderful speakers, a three-course meal, and so much more. To learn about the event or to purchase your ticket, visit their website.
Edmonton Craft Beer Festival
Now I didn’t forget about the beer drinkers! Come on down to the Edmonton EXPO Centre from March 10-11 for the Edmonton Craft Beer Festival. Check out some great Canadian breweries and distilleries while having a laugh with your friends. This event is also great as a date night idea! Don’t worry, in case you get hungry there will also be great food vendors on site to fill your snack craving! For more information about the event or tickets, visit their website.
2023 Juno Awards
The 2023 Juno Awards are being hosted in Edmonton at Roger’s Place on March 13 and guess what, you can buy tickets to attend! There will be great performances, special guest appearances, and more! To learn more about the event or to purchase your tickets, visit their website.
20th Alberta Health & Safety Conference
I know this isn’t an Edmonton event, but it’s a great event for health and safety professionals so I had to add it here! Do you work in the health and safety industry? Join us in Calgary at the Westin Calgary Airport for two days of insightful keynote speakers, numerous session topics, and learn about the newest in health and safety technology and innovation. Registration will be open soon so don’t forget to get your ticket by visiting their website. If you stop by the conference, stop by and say hello to me, I’d love to meet with you in person.
Well, that’s a wrap! I hope that one of these events can help you turn around your winter blues. If you attend an event, shoot me a message on one of my social media channels and let me know how you liked it, or tag me in your story. I look forward to attending some of these events myself. Stay tuned for the 2023 Summer Events in Edmonton blog coming out in a few months.
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 Great Ways to Find Sponsors for Your Event
3 Great Ways to Find Sponsors for Your Event
What is an event sponsor? An event sponsor is a company, organization, or individual who supports an event usually by providing funds. In exchange for providing funds, the sponsor expects a return in value. This value can come from brand exposure, speaking opportunities, special mentions, discounted tickets, or data after the show. I wanted to start this blog by defining what an event sponsor is and what they expect in return as it will really help explain how you can find sponsors for your upcoming event. In today’s blog, I will share three ways to help you find sponsors for your event!
Provide Value
Ok, I know this one is obvious, but I can’t emphasize how important it is to provide value to your event sponsors. This is especially important if you have a recurring event (i.e. yearly tradeshow). If you want your sponsors to return, or even sign up in the first place you must guarantee them some sort of value that is equivalent to the monetary amount they are providing. So let’s talk a little more in-depth about the kind of value that you can provide to your sponsors and some examples of them!
Brand Exposure/Special Mentions
Brand exposure is usually one of the key reasons a company or organization chooses to sponsor an event. When done properly, sponsors can gain great brand exposure! So how do YOU go about providing it? Check out the list of examples:
- Sponsorship profile on the event website which showcases the company/organization logo, links to their website and social channels, provides an overview as to what they do, and/or provides a link to chat directly with a member of their team.
- Logo displayed on all event branding materials including brochures, website, presentations, and any other print information.
- Social media shoutouts (don’t forget to tag the company).
Speaking Opportunities
Speaking opportunities are usually included in high-level sponsorship packages (continue reading below to learn about sponsorship tiers). As the event organizer, you can choose the topic that you would like discussed or you can allow sponsors to submit abstracts that you approve prior to the event. Do you have an event theme? Think about asking your sponsor to speak on the topic.
Discounted Tickets
I think this one is a bit self-explanatory but providing your sponsor with discounted tickets for team members is a great incentive. This may not hold strong enough value on its own, but paired with another tactic can be a great bonus! Consider including a few free registrations as well!
Data
Depending on your event and your potential sponsor, some sponsors find great value in the market data that you collect from your event. This is usually data pertaining to your attendees which might include:
- Company Industry
- Company Size
- Company Location
- Job Title
Provide Different Sponsorship Tiers
Providing different sponsorship tiers with different levels of value are a great way of attracting various types and sizes of sponsors. Say your gold level sponsorship comes with substantial value, it may also come with a higher cost which some organizations may not be able to budget. In other cases, some organizations prefer to test the lower tiers first as a “trial-run” before they invest more in the coming years to ensure that your event provides enough value and is the right fit for them. Common sponsorship levels are gold, silver, and bronze. Depending on the packages you want to offer, you can choose more or fewer levels. Ensure that you are providing enough value for the sum of money you are asking for each sponsorship tier.
Find Your Prospects
Don’t leave it up for companies and organizations to find you! Go out there and get your event’s name and value out there! Especially if your event is newer and does not have a solid reputation in the industry yet, it’s important for you to approach prospective sponsors and pitch your sponsorship packages to them. Perhaps providing incentives like early bird pricing can help entice some.
I have two additional pieces of advice for you, one, start early, and two, listen to your sponsors. It’s so important to get feedback from your sponsors at the end of an event to learn about where they found value and which areas lacked so that you can improve for the next year. This will guarantee returning sponsors and larger organizations sponsoring in future years. If you have any questions or need some advice on your upcoming event please reach out to us! We have years of expertise in the corporate events world and we would love to help you create your unique and successful event!
3 of the Best Ways to Create an Events Community
3 of the Best Ways to Create an Events Community
Creating a community around your event or even your organization reaps significant benefits. Some benefits include increased brand awareness, customer/event attendance retention, increased website and social media traffic, giving your brand a personality, and so much more! It’s important to note that building a community is not easy and it will not happen overnight. Today I thought I’d share 3 ideas to help you create your events community!
Social Media Channels
Social media channels play many functions in a person’s day-to-day life, one of them is connecting with like-minded individuals. Think about the groups or pages you follow on Facebook, the groups you are a part of on LinkedIn, and the pages you follow on Instagram. These are just a few examples of communities. Social media, when brought in as one element of a community can help make your community stronger! So how do you do it?
First, it’s important to identify where your target audience spends their time. Which platforms are they interacting with most? What types of groups are they already a part of and what types of pages do they follow? Once you have figured out these questions, you will be able to find a way to portray your brand’s voice online. I recommend starting groups on various platforms and testing where you are receiving the most traffic and engagement. Once you know which platform is right for your community, you can put your major focus on it.
Host Community Events
Hosting community events is another excellent way to really build a strong sense of community and create a bond between individuals and your brand. Keep in mind, these events don’t have to be big and expensive! They can be as simple as hosting an online educational webinar where the floor is open for interaction afterward or even a small networking event at a local lounge! The possibilities are endless here, so think about what types of events your community finds valuable and fun and put the two together!
Looking for more benefits on why your brand should host an event? Check out our blog!
Listen to Feedback
I can’t emphasize this enough, but listening to your community’s feedback will play the largest role in the success of your community and initiatives. People want to feel included and they want to feel heard. It’s important to not only recognize this but see the true value it holds! Of course, you can’t accommodate every suggestion, nor can you make everyone happy, however when you are noticing a consensus of a similar opinion it may be something to investigate! Give your community lots of opportunities to give feedback, the good and the bad. It’s important to learn what you are doing well (so that you can continue) and what needs some improvement. Using these insights will bring more value than you could ever expect.
Ok, so you have a few ideas in your pocket now for building your community… but where should you start? I suggest starting with identifying who you are as a brand and then identifying who your audience is and how they typically engage. EXPERIMENT! Try things out, see what’s working and see what’s not. Don’t forget to find metrics to measure engagement so that you can identify how exactly you can build your community.
As always, Planit Events Inc. is here for you! Whether you just have a few questions or you’re looking for professional events help in the Edmonton area, send us a message and we would be happy to see how we can help out.
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