Ready, set, plan

I’m fairly confident to say that the worst of the pandemic is now behind us, and life is mostly on track now. We don’t want to hear the words covid, pandemic, isolation, or any other word associated with the events that took place over the last couple of years. We should be in a different space with a more positive mindset as we move forward, making plans and picking up where we left off. I hope that over the next few minutes you can get excited again about planning those events that have been on the back burner. Let yourself escape as we mention exciting destinations, fabulous venues and conjure up images of people coming together.

Now more than ever as the events industry has opened once again and with such a generous supply of options the market is more competitive than ever for your business. With many new properties to choose from, refurbishments as well as loyal brands expanding to other locations it is a very exciting time for us. With more supply comes more bargaining power for the organisers and more choice to suit varying budgets not only in the events space but also for the independent traveller.

In the following blog I would like to hopefully inspire you to start thinking again about planning your next event and destination selection. Pick up where you left off or make that start that has been on hold.

 

No time like the present

There is no reason why we need to hold off on planning our events now. Borders are open, venues are operating and now more than ever with such a huge choice in options leaving the organisers with more bargaining power is an ideal time to organise and deliver your event.

Whilst events can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of years from the beginning of the planning stage to delivery, many are now being organised with shorter lead times in place. Depending on the nature of your event this is possible and can still deliver a successful event on the day. Regardless, careful thought and planning is still necessary. Consider the purpose and message you are wanting to get across to your audience. Whilst sometimes it can be a little overwhelming at the beginning, once you have established the purpose set your budget, selected your destination and venue it’s relatively smooth sailing from there. It’s a matter of adding meat to the bones and building it to bring it all together.

The correct destination and venue choice can have a huge impact on the success of your event. Poor choice can lead to a poor attendance thus leading to a failed event both in attendance levels, dynamics and interaction of the audience and the financial bottom line.

 

Picking your destination

With the world at your fingertips and so many options to choose from its now easier than ever to venture beyond your usual and “go to” locations. Don’t discount destinations too quickly thinking they will be outside of the budget or too hard to get to. When reviewing consider all aspects. Whilst an out-of-town destination may require a slightly higher cost to get to, you may find an all-inclusive resort that ticks all the boxes. You may be pleasantly surprised with what’s out there. Destinations are expanding their reach to go beyond the independent travel sector by now adding to and improving their services to win a slice of the pie in the event space.

From venues that are all inclusive making it cost effective, additional flights equating to higher frequency in arrivals and departures, more airlines equal more competitive airfares. Destinations have also improved ground service operations which means they are better equipped to cater to the event market.

With so many options available choosing the right destination and venue can take some time to make the right decision. When you look at all the elements to be considered this process should not be taken lightly or cut any corners given its importance. Care, attention to detail and thought is paramount.

Over the years I have seen where many events have continued to be held in the same cities and even same venues. Whilst the consistency, uniformity and ease of planning is a bonus but for many delegates who attend on very rare occasions or only annually would like to see some variation. For them it’s a treat and something they look forward to so changing it up keeps the delegates stimulated and on the ball which in turn adds to the content and dynamics that come about over the few days of the event.

With destinations becoming more attractive as they build on their infrastructure and offerings leads to more options for the organisers. With more choice, improved facilities, refurbished properties, improved ground support and more suppliers demonstrates they are catering and really adding in effort and resources to this sector to win your business and really market themselves as an events destination.

 

From Australia to Europe and everywhere in between

Whilst Australia is located a little further afield for many of us most events tend to stay locally in Australia or not far beyond our shores. However, with competitive airfares, additional flights, and new carriers we are seeing many Australians travel abroad.

Sometimes we have already discounted international destinations assuming they are costly and will blow the budget, but we can be pleasantly surprised. Don’t look at the transport alone in getting to your location but overall evaluate with the venue cost in mind. Once bundled and calculated a per delegate cost for registration you may find it works out cost effective. Many venues are priced as all-inclusive, particularly popular in the Caribbean, which extends to conferences. The pricing model covers costs including the catering, room hire etc and can prove to be an economical way pricing your registration ticket.

As does the independent traveller who can shop around and find specials the same applies in the event sector. Do your research as the competition is fierce.

 

Ground services  

It’s worth a mention here that not only have we seen an increase in new venues and improved air services but also complimentary to these are all the ground services that accompany. These services anywhere from transfers to team building to staging and production have come back post covid with improved services and polished offerings. They have re-invented themselves and, in some instances, have added to their offering showing adaption to the new and current conditions.

 

In conclusion

So, when picking your destination and venue factor in all the elements. Take your time in the research and decision-making process here and be open to options you may have never considered before. Don’t discount any location until you have done the research, including a thorough cost analysis to host your event there, accessibility, facilities, and ground support. With so many destinations as options make your next event one to remember.

I’ll leave you with a couple of images to lose yourself in and consider for your next destination.

 

You can review my personal profile on Linkedin at Anna Civiti or follow me on Facebook at AC Events Management & Consultancy here