In 2023, the event planning landscape is sure to be changed in ways that we can’t even imagine yet. But one thing is certain: with so many people eager to come together again in person, there will be no shortage of opportunities for skilled event planners to make their mark.
As we look to the future of event planning in 2023, it’s clear that technology will continue to be a driving force in the industry. We are already seeing the effects of technology in the events industry with virtual events, live streaming, and more.
One thing that is sure to continue to be a major trend in event planning in 2023 is the use of artificial intelligence and automation. Automation is already being used for event planning tasks such as registration, ticketing, and event management. But as AI becomes more advanced, it will be used to manage more complex tasks such as scheduling, budgeting, and even marketing.
Another major trend in event planning in 2023 will be the use of data-driven insights. With data analytics, event planners will be able to gain insight into attendee behaviour, preferences, and engagement. This will help them create more targeted and personalized experiences for attendees. Event planners will also be able to use data to measure the ROI of their events and make smarter decisions about how to allocate their resources.
Overall, event planning in 2023 is sure to be a dynamic and exciting field. With the right skills and strategies, 2023 can be a time of growth and success for event professionals.
In this events industry expert series, 10times asked Shameka Jennings to share some expert tips for successful event planning in 2023. In addition, she also shared some insights on the new trends that are now shaping the events industry.
Table Of Contents
- 1 About Shameka
- 1.1 * How do you think events and venues have changed post covid-19 and what are the new trends that are now shaping the events industry?
- 1.2 * As 2023 approaches, the opportunity to revamp and create a fresh experience should be top-of-mind for event coordinators and marketers. Would you like to share some tips for planning successful events in 2023?
- 1.3 * Post-pandemic, new external pressures like the war in Ukraine, an inflation surge, and supply chain issues will impact event budgets in 2023. What are your tips for event planners in 2023 when it comes to allocating budgets?
- 1.4 * Would you like to share any message for the event professionals community?
About Shameka
Shameka Jennings is an award-winning certified meeting professional, international speaker, and thought leader with over 8 years of industry experience. Shameka is passionate about people, leadership, and successful businesses.
She has a knack for making meaningful connections through events and an insatiable appetite for helping others maximize their potential. She is especially inspired to help people take their events, organizations, and careers to unprecedented levels.
Shameka is the Principal and Chief Events Officer of EventsNoire, where she drives revenue growth, sponsorships, and member engagement through the creation of relevant and on-brand event experiences, in-person and virtually, for non-profit organizations, associations, and corporations.
* How do you think events and venues have changed post covid-19 and what are the new trends that are now shaping the events industry?
Prior to COVID, I feel like a lot of events were very rinse, wash, and repeat. Planners subscribed to the model “If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.” I believe for events, specifically after COVID, planners will need to be more thoughtful and intentional about how we plan events. It’s not enough to do the same old, same old.
It’s now very important to make sure we source diverse vendors, have diverse speakers, ensure accessibility, and truly create experiences where people can be their most authentic selves in the spaces we design. I also want to be clear that these things are not trends. They are vital to the lifeblood of events as we move forward.
I’ll echo what I mentioned above. Our events need to be DEIA – diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible. And this does not start on day 1 of the conference on-site, but rather on day 1 of the planning of the event.
Involve your attendees from the beginning and every step of the way when planning your event. By engaging your community throughout the event process, and implementing some of their ideas and recommendations, they become co-event curators and become invested in the event and its success. This could also be used in marketing as well because this allows the event’s story to be told in the voice of the people.
Embrace technology. Virtual and hybrid events should be part of your event strategy. They can be done in any number of ways with any budget. There are many barriers to attending events in-person so incorporating a virtual/hybrid aspect can provide accessibility and create equity for members/event supporters.
* Post-pandemic, new external pressures like the war in Ukraine, an inflation surge, and supply chain issues will impact event budgets in 2023. What are your tips for event planners in 2023 when it comes to allocating budgets?
I’m going to cheat a little bit here. I just created this graphic for my social media because January is Financial Wellness month. I think these 6 tips (really 5 :D) can help planners as they allocate their budget.
Don’t be afraid of change or to try new things. Give yourself grace. You got this.
For more information on Shameka or her company, visit www.shamekajennings.com or www.eventsnoire.com.
Twitter: @ShamekaPlans
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shamekajennings/
For more in the Events Industry Experts series, check out our interview with Janice Cardinale, Courtney Stanley, Helen Moon, Danica Tormohlen, Ashley Brown, Jason Allan Scott, Brandt Krueger, Corbin Ball, Will Curran, and Stephan Murtagh today!
Are you interested in sharing your insights or viewpoints with the events industry? Join the Eva Talk.