Hosting an event that people will remember can be challenging and (if we’re all being honest) super overwhelming. You’re probably thinking:
“How will I promote it?”
“Will anyone actually come?”
“Chicken, fish or vegetarian?”
“What if my budget isn’t big enough?”
Press pause. Before you answer any of the above questions, let’s go back to the beginning and start with step one.
Here are 4 event planning tips:
1. Audience
Knowing your audience is key to throwing an event that people will remember. In order to create interest for both attendees and sponsors you’ll need to spend time on developing killer content that creates a buzz around your event. Before you begin producing said content and event assets you will want to figure out exactly who it is you are trying to invite.
After the content is built and you have determined your audience, it’s time to spread the word. Technically, there is no right or wrong way to go about enticing people into coming to your event. Start by finding them first.
Promoting your event could look like:
- Strategically placed posters throughout the community
- Utilizing major influencers to share the message
- Targeted online ads
- Social media posts / Facebook event
- Press release
- Having sponsors leverage their audience
- Industry Associations
Lastly, remember to compile relevant data on attendees during the registration process. Having that information will not only help you grow and understand your audience, but better connect with them in future promotions.
2. Location
Location, location, location. Did we mention location?
On a more serious note, location will make or break your event. It’s really important and sets the tone from arrival to departure.
Some things to consider before making a decision:
- Theme
- Atmosphere you want to create
- Amenities that will be required (rooms for breakout sessions, power, restrooms, food etc.) – List all of these out
- Room and board – Most hotels will negotiate for large groups
- Space for sponsor booths or tables
3. Speakers
It’s easy to forget that speakers get as much from your event as you are getting from them. Whether it’s exposure for their brand as an individual, meeting attendees or networking with your other VIPs, you have a lot to offer. Having a solid concept in mind before approaching industry experts to speak makes it easier for them to envision their role in your event. Choose a topic your audience will connect with and be inspired by.
4. Get Creative with a Badge
Some might say it’s all in the details. At SnugZ we say it’s all in the badge.
Oftentimes badges are neglected and event planners settle for a much less appealing sticker name tag with “Parker” scribbled on it.
Do you want your event to be remember as unorganized and cheap? No.
A badge is much more than a name tag. Use that space in a creative way to get your audience engaged!
- Map out your venue
- List the conference schedule
- Run a hashtag or social media contest
- Go AR like Facebook at F8
- Tell a story about each attendee
- Your idea here __________
Ordering a lanyard without its badge is unnatural. So buy the badge and start planning an event people will remember! Free setup on full-color badges through May of 2018!* Check out Lanyard + Badge options here.
