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In early 2024, I wrote two long, detailed posts ( 1 , 2 ) that explained why using “facial analysis” technology at events is ethically and legally dubious. Now I’ve learned of strong evidence that the core claim of such technology — that it can reliably measure attendee emotions at events — is seriously flawed. Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett is a neuroscientist, psychologist, and the Northe astern University Distinguished Professor of Psychology.
A “Bloom” theme permeated this year’s event. For decades, Amway’s annual Founders Council event has served as a landing point to celebrate the achievements of the company’s direct-selling health and beauty independent business owners or “ABOs” from around the globe. As a highly exclusive incentive experience, top distributors have to qualify each year to attend, and so the experience on the ground needs to match the excitement of earning a seat.
Weddings are full of emotional moments. Among one of the most touching is the father-daughter dance – a moment that captures a father’s lifelong devotion toward nurturing and raising an amazing daughter, and now, bride. Of course, one key ingredient to help make this moment truly unforgettable is the perfect song selection! From timeless classics to modern hits, country tearjerkers to playful singalongs, we’ve rounded up the recos from Toronto’s top wedding DJs , offering
When planning a conference or other large event for your association, determining how to engage attendees from start to finish is essential for success. At the same time, you want to make sure your event comes across as professional and represents what your organization stands for. After all, your main goal is to keep members coming back and taking advantage of all the professional opportunities your association has to offer!
Speaker: Aja Bradley Kemp, Founder & Chief Experience Officer at Conversate Collective
In a world where every brand is vying for attention, how do you make your events stand out? ✨ From creative swag strategies to immersive brand experiences, the key lies in fostering real connections that inspire action and leave a lasting impression. Whether you're planning a large-scale conference or an exclusive executive gathering, this session will explore how to elevate event engagement, strengthen brand perception, and maximize ROI.
How planners can take part culture of conservation, environmental sustainability and positive impact at a sought-after destination June 8 is World Ocean Day. The annual commemorative date was established following a 1992 proposal by Canada’s International Centre for Ocean Development and the Ocean Institute of Canada at the Earth Summit – UN Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
“What we consistently hear from our users, and Gen Z in particular, is that Pinterest is their safe space to explore what they actually like, what inspires them. It’s much less about ‘what is everyone else doing,’ and more about, ‘what’s right for me?’ So we definitely leaned into that at Coachella.” –Sara Pollack, VP, Global Lead of Consumer Marketing, Pinterest Fans could embellish their looks with on-trend hair and beauty styles.
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“What we consistently hear from our users, and Gen Z in particular, is that Pinterest is their safe space to explore what they actually like, what inspires them. It’s much less about ‘what is everyone else doing,’ and more about, ‘what’s right for me?’ So we definitely leaned into that at Coachella.” –Sara Pollack, VP, Global Lead of Consumer Marketing, Pinterest Fans could embellish their looks with on-trend hair and beauty styles.
Love knows no boundaries, and for Heather and Alston, it transcended cultures, weaving a beautiful tapestry of modern elegance and Caribbean vibrancy at Hotel X Toronto. Nestled amidst the dynamic cityscape , the venue provided the perfect backdrop for Heather and Alston’s union. From the breathtaking views at The View , where they exchanged vows, to the enchanting ambiance of New Fort Hall for their reception, every corner of the venue echoed with the promise of a magical day.
The Meetings Industry Association (mia) is seeking an exceptional and inspirational new chief executive, following Kerrin MacPhie’s decision to pursue a new venture. Since her appointment in 2021, Kerrin has significantly elevated and transformed the trade association as well as its work advocating best practice and championing the business meetings and event sector.
You think planning a sales conference at a Chicago hotel ballroom is tough, try planning the 2024 Summer Olympics. The games stretch from July 26 to Aug. 11. To be closely followed by the Paralympics from Aug. 28-Sept. 8. The Olympics opening ceremony, for the first time in the history of the summer games, will not take place in a stadium, but will see 10,500 athletes from 205 international delegations glide along Paris’ River Seine on more than 80 boats as the sun sets.
FIVE THINGS TO KNOW THIS WEEK This week’s hot takes on hot topics in experiential marketing cover “pregnant” street teams, drag conventions and Big Green Keggs. KICK OFF YOUR SUMMER WITH A ‘BIG GREEN KEGG’ STAND We all know grilling and beer go hand-in-hand, so on May 28, just after Memorial Day Weekend wrapped and summer kicked off, Miller Lite teamed up with grill-maker Big Green Egg, which has gained a cult following, to craft the Big Green Kegg and tap into the company’s engaged audience.
Speaker: Alexa Acosta, Director of Growth Marketing & B2B Marketing Leader
Marketing is evolving at breakneck speed—new tools, AI-driven automation, and changing buyer behaviors are rewriting the playbook. With so many trends competing for attention, how do you cut through the noise and focus on what truly moves the needle? In this webinar, industry expert Alexa Acosta will break down the most impactful marketing trends shaping the industry today and how to turn them into real, revenue-generating strategies.
Focus by Jared Cherup I’ve been a big fan of Customer Centricity , a book written by Wharton’s Peter Fader for quite some time. Fader advocates that “in the world of customer centricity, there are good customers … and then there is pretty much everybody else.” He recommends focusing and investing in retaining the former, while not ignoring the latter.
In the events industry where the pace can often feel overwhelming, volunteering has emerged as a powerful antidote, offering profound benefits to not only those who are being supported but also to the volunteers themselves. From utilising pedal power to litter picking, with Volunteers’ Week taking place this week (3-9 June), Central Hall Westminster ’s team shines a spotlight on how donating their time has enriched both their own lives as well as their work as busy event professionals.
Stuart Levy Stuart Levy, The Singer Oceanfront Resort, a Curio Collection by Hilton Levy takes on the role of general manager at The Singer Oceanfront Resort, a Curio Collection by Hilton. With decades of experience leading full-service properties and a passion for fostering meaningful relationship and driving growth in the hospitality industry, Levy will take the helm at the resort and lead it through its upcoming multi-million-dollar renovation.
It’s no secret that consumers are more skeptical and discerning than ever about the types of CPG products they’re willing to use, and pay for. More and more, they’re looking for a peek “under the hood” to understand how products work and the types of ingredients they’re made of. In response, brands like Tide and OGX have been hosting science lab-themed pop-up activations that let attendees delve into the innerworkings of products with hands-on interactives that are typically led by brand special
In order to create a successful event, you must: Optimize Event Website and Registration Process Utilize Social Media Platforms Effectively Implement Targeted Email Campaigns Harness the Power of Video Content Benefit from a Mobile App Download now and learn how to simplify this process with Eventpedia.
Skift Take: It takes a minimum of 849 days to get a visitor visa interview appointment in Mexico City. In Bogota, it’s 640 days. Mumbai, 499 days. These delays have a tangible negative impact on the events industry.
Following last week’s confirmation that a UK General Election will take place on 4th July 2024, The Business of Events and The Meetings Show has elected to postpone the London Policy Forum until the Autumn. It had been due to take place on the 19th June 2024. Martin Fullard, director of The Business of Events issued the following statement: “With the UK General Election catching most commentators by surprise, we have elected to postpone the London Policy Forum.
Grand openings and major renovations refresh meeting space in famous international cities All across the world, in some of the most sought-after international cities, come new and renovated hotels and meeting spaces, leaving the stage set for outstanding gatherings, wherever your attendees may be traveling from to get there. If you’re planning an international meeting, these new and renovated venues are calling your name.
Professional associations, non-profits, and online interest-based groups all have one thing in common: the need to retain and renew their member base. The soaring popularity of online communities—through digital platforms like Meta, Slack, Discord, and others—has led to an overall change in membership retention strategies. Plus, in an inflationary economic climate, how do you encourage membership renewals when people are cutting their spending?
The greats learn from the greats. Set yourself and your team up for success with tried and tested strategies and insights from event marketing geniuses at Vanta, Partnership Leaders, Quantum Metric, Rocketlane, and Explori.
Skift Take: Greg Topalian predicts an industry shake-up in the event industry—think events moving to secondary markets, outdoor venues, new ways to make connections, and fan-focused trade shows. Ready for the revolution?
The recent art exhibition Essence of Jazz by renowned artist Rachel Akers, a first for Aloft Birmingham Eastside, concluded with remarkable success. The launch event, which was the first time the venue has ventured into art and cultural activities as a part of its event business mix, saw the sale of the artist’s largest piece, The Four-Piece Band. Rachel Akers’ vibrant collection captivated attendees, blending the soulful rhythms of jazz with the dynamic energy of her visual art.
Cvent CEO Reggie Agarwal recently stated that the event industry has reached a staggering $1.6 trillion! This stands as a testament to the global appetite for connectivity, knowledge exchange and memorable experiences. That being said, according to a McKinsey study the wellness industry has hit an even more impressive $1.8 trillion, driven by a universal shift towards holistic health and well-being.
Professional associations, non-profits, and online interest-based groups all have one thing in common: the need to retain and renew their member base. The soaring popularity of online communities—through digital platforms like Meta, Slack, Discord, and others—has led to an overall change in membership retention strategies. Plus, in an inflationary economic climate, how do you encourage membership renewals when people are cutting their spending?
In this best practices guide, you’ll learn how to tap into the cost-efficiencies of advocacy and word-of-mouth marketing with video. Examples include speakers providing a preview of their upcoming sessions, exhibitors creating “please stop by” invitations and attendees creating “looking forward to seeing you” introduction videos. Learn about best practices and programs created by leading companies and associations including ASIS, AUVSI, SuperZoo, National Restaurant Association, World of Concret
Skift Take: While many in the events industry have stumbled upon the profession, not Ronny Coombs, exhibits manager of the American Society of Nephrology. She set out on a path with deliberate focus.
Luxury London-based events caterer Blue Strawberry has secured a coveted multi-year contract with IMG, delivering the exclusive King’s VIP Dining Experience at the Hampton Court Palace Festival. Taking place from 11 – 21 June 2024, this year will mark the 28 th season of the iconic open-air concert series. The star-studded line-up features global headliners including Tom Jones, Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Sheryl Crow and Deacon Blue.
When I worked in downtown Detroit, I went to Toronto or Chicago to get an urban buzz. But no more. The Motor City, especially downtown and its nearby neighborhoods, is reborn. In 2023, 30 million people visited this bustling cityscape, where PCMA EduCon will take place June 23-26, right across from Canada on the Detroit River. If you’re going to EduCon, what you should know is that even in its worst days, Detroit saw itself as somewhere special.
Just Vote’s partnership with the summer festivals, ‘Crash the Party’, features: As festival season kicks off, music festival industry heavyweights are uniting to get 18-34 year olds to the polls.
Speaker: Jennifer Hodroge, Omni-Channel Strategic Leader, Forrester CX Certified
Marketers know that personalization is the key to engagement—but with limited budgets and time, how do you prioritize what, where, and how to personalize? Aligning your content, campaigns, and buyer experiences requires a deep understanding of customer needs. In this new webinar with expert Jennifer Hodroge, we’ll explore how to leverage insights and customer journey mapping to build personalization strategies that deliver real impact.
Celebrating its 10 th Anniversary, the Event Photography Awards 2024 culminated in a fabulous event in central London at the at the Royal Institute of British Architects’ (RIBA) magnificent headquarters, 66 Portland Place, on Wednesday 5 June. Some 250 guests perused an extensive gallery of over 130 short-listed shots while enjoying particularly tasty catering by Company of Cooks.
Continuing our discussion of AI with Janette Roush, executive vice president of marketing and digital for New York City Tourism & Conventions, and Sindhu Srivastava, CEO of We Crush Events and MeaningfulData, in this special mini episode, we explore the issue of bias in AI. To hear the full conversation, listen here. The post How To Fight AI Bias: Keep Humans in the Loop appeared first on Smart Meetings.
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