Maria Lenhart

Labor shortages are impacting events in multiple and sometimes completely unforeseen ways. Four event experts candidly share their horror stories. Treat these as warnings for those hosting events in the weeks and months ahead.

While the pandemic dealt a hard blow to companies that arrange childcare at events, forcing some of them out of business, those who survived are now seeing a surge of demand as live events return. However, given staffing shortages and soaring costs, those seeking childcare at events must be prepared to plan in advance and stretch the budget.

What does it really mean to plan an “accessible” meeting or event? While most commonly thought of as ensuring that facilities are accessible for wheelchairs, it’s more complex than that. It means anticipating and addressing a wide spectrum of needs among attendees and presenters, encompassing everything from dietary, hearing, vision, scent allergies, mobility, and much more.

Time-squeezed meeting planners are pleading with tech companies to stop requiring buyers to sit through lengthy online demos before getting an idea of whether or not the platform cost fits into the event budget. Tech companies say pricing is far too complex to post on a website, although some are addressing the issue. PUT PRICING […]

The tight labor market is fuelling demand for freelance services in the event industry. For their part, planners are moving into freelance work for greater flexibility, relief from career burnout, and the chance to focus on aspects of the job they enjoy most.  

Crafting the right attrition and cancellation clauses in event contracts is more important than ever. Despite continued uncertainty, planners can no longer count on the low rates and flexibility hotels offered at the height of the pandemic. Contract experts share their advice on how best to negotiate in the current climate.  

Software company twine, a specialized tool for networking, just announced its acquisition of Glimpse, part of the Zoom App Marketplace. This deal marks the launch of twine for Zoom, a tool that combines matchmaking software with Zoom Breakout Rooms.

As many associations report declining volunteer and membership levels, leaders say it’s time for organizations to rethink the way they manage volunteer programs and take steps to encourage more participation at meetings. 

Staffing shortages, supply chain issues, rising costs and, of course, the ongoing pandemic are creating a perfect storm of challenges for event managers. Out of the storm may come more efficient approaches to event planning and respect for hospitality employees.

The past two years have been a roller coaster ride for event managers as they pivot toward virtual and hybrid strategies amid the twists and turns of a wildly unstable pandemic environment. Along the way, they’re dealing with a flood of new event technologies that often come with steep learning curves and inadequate support. Where’s […]