Corporate event planning is an ever-evolving field, and it's essential for event planners to stay up-to-date with the latest trends to deliver memorable and successful events. Whether you're planning a small meeting, a large customer conference, or a trade show, incorporating the latest trends can take your event to the next level.
In this article, we'll discuss the top trends in planning a corporate event for 2023. From hybrid events to sustainability, technology integration, experiential events, personalization, live events, and wellness and wellbeing, we'll explore each trend and offer examples of successful events that have implemented these trends.
Live events are an essential part of corporate event planning as they provide an opportunity for businesses to connect with their audience in person. The importance of live events in event planning cannot be overstated as they offer a unique experience that cannot be replicated by online events.
Live events allow attendees to engage with brands and businesses in a way that digital events cannot, making them a valuable tool for building relationships and fostering brand loyalty.
In recent years, certain types of live events have gained more traction and popularity among audiences. Music festivals such as Coachella and Bonnaroo have attracted millions of attendees worldwide. These events offer an immersive experience that blends music, art, and culture, making them highly appealing to a younger audience.
Similarly, experiential events such as pop-up shops, interactive installations, and product launches have also gained popularity as they provide a unique and engaging experience for attendees.
When planning a live event, it's essential to consider several factors that can make or break the success of the event. Firstly, have a clear understanding of the target audience and their preferences to ensure that the event is relevant and engaging. Secondly, select a suitable venue that can accommodate the expected number of attendees and provide adequate facilities. Lastly, the event should have a clear theme or concept that ties everything together and creates a cohesive experience for attendees.
Other essential aspects of planning a live event include having a well-defined budget, creating a comprehensive event schedule, choosing the right vendors and partners, and having a robust marketing strategy to promote the event and attract attendees. It's also important to have a plan in case of any unforeseen circumstances such as poor weather, technical difficulties, or other emergencies.
Live events will always be a crucial part of corporate event planning in 2023 and beyond. By understanding the importance of live events, the most successful types of live events, and the tips for planning a live event, event planners can create engaging and memorable experiences that leave a lasting impression on attendees.
Sustainability has become a key consideration for event planners in recent years, as the impact of events on the environment has become increasingly clear.
Some examples of sustainable practices include using reusable or biodegradable materials for event signage and decor, reducing single-use plastics, sourcing local and organic food and beverages, and minimizing energy and water usage.
In addition, some event planners are now implementing carbon offsetting programs to neutralize the carbon footprint of their events.
To plan a sustainable event, event planners should start by considering the environmental impact of each aspect of the event and looking for ways to reduce that impact. This can include choosing a venue with sustainable practices in place, such as using renewable energy or having a recycling program.
Communicate sustainability initiatives to attendees and vendors to create a culture of sustainability at the event. Even better, measure, track and report on your sustainability efforts, or partner with an expert that can help you implement a sustainability reporting initiative for your events.
Find out why you should personalize your event environments with Metavent.
There are many ways that event planners are integrating technology to enhance attendees' experiences and make events more interactive.
For example, some planners are using virtual and augmented reality to create immersive experiences, while others are incorporating live streaming and video conferencing to connect remote attendees.
There are many successful examples of technology integration in events, such as the use of RFID wristbands to streamline event check-in and payments, or the use of interactive touchscreens to display event schedules and maps.
Have a clear understanding of the event's purpose and goals. Planners should consider how technology can enhance the attendee experience and facilitate event logistics.
It's important to have a solid plan for implementing and testing the technology before the event, to ensure everything runs smoothly on the day of the event.
Be sure to provide adequate communication, training and support for attendees, so they can fully take advantage of the technology available to them.
Here’s a quick read on how to plan a successful team building event.
Experiential events have become a major trend in planning a corporate event for 2023. These types of events are designed to engage attendees on a deeper level, by creating a memorable experience that goes beyond a typical conference or meeting.
Examples of successful experiential events include the launch of a new product, where attendees are surrounded by the brand in every event element - from the signage to the furniture - and they can try out the product and learn about its features in a fun and interactive way. Another example is an interactive museum-style exhibit that showcases a company's history or mission. Give your guests a walk back in time to build deeper connections to the brand.
To plan an experiential event, focus on creating unique and engaging experiences for attendees. This can be done by incorporating interactive elements such as virtual reality or gamification, or by creating an immersive environment that transports attendees to a different world.
Consider the overall theme and message of the event, and to ensure that all experiences and activities align with that message.
Personalization is a trend in planning corporate events that is gaining traction, as it allows guests to feel valued and connected to the event.
For example, event planners can send personalized invitations, create custom menus based on guests' dietary preferences, or even tailor the music selection to guests' preferred genres.
Incorporating personalization into events can also extend to the event website or registration process, where guests can customize their experience by selecting their preferred sessions or activities.
To successfully incorporate personalization into events, gather data on guests' preferences and interests, communicate clearly with attendees, and use technology to streamline the personalization process.
As people become more health-conscious and prioritize self-care, incorporating wellness and wellbeing into events has become increasingly important.
Successful wellness-focused events can take many forms, from fitness classes and yoga sessions to meditation workshops and healthy cooking demonstrations. Companies have hosted virtual wellness retreats featuring guided meditation and yoga classes, while others have offered walking meetings and standing desks to promote physical activity and reduce the negative effects of sitting for long periods.
When planning a corporate event with wellness in mind, consider offering healthy food options, providing opportunities for physical activity or movement breaks, and incorporating elements of mindfulness and stress reduction such as guided meditation or yoga. You could also consider incorporating natural elements into the event space, such as plants or natural lighting.
Hybrid events are becoming increasingly popular in the corporate world due to the flexibility they offer. A hybrid event combines both in-person and virtual elements, allowing attendees to participate either in person or remotely. This allows for increased attendance, as those who may not have been able to attend in person can still participate virtually.
One example of a successful hybrid event was the 2021 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), which was held both in person and virtually. This allowed for increased attendance and engagement, with over 100,000 attendees participating virtually from around the world.
When planning a successful hybrid event, consider both the in-person and virtual components. This may include creating interactive experiences for virtual attendees, such as Q&A sessions, polls, and networking opportunities. It's important to have high-quality technology and equipment in place, as well as stellar lighting and training for your speakers, to ensure a seamless experience for virtual attendees.
As event planning continues to evolve, it is crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest trends to ensure successful events. In this article, we have covered six of the top trends in corporate event planning for 2023, including hybrid events, sustainability, technology integration, experiential events, personalization, and wellness and wellbeing.
Additionally, with live events making a comeback, it is important to prioritize the safety and wellbeing of all attendees while also providing engaging and impactful experiences.
At Metavent, whether you are producing an event for 10 or 1000, we’ll help you design, manage and execute an unforgettable live event experience which will delight and inspire your guests.
Get in touch with us today and make the ordinary – extraordinary.
Staying up-to-date with corporate event trends is important because it allows event planners to create experiences that are relevant and engaging for their attendees.
Some popular event trends for 2023 include hybrid events, sustainability, technology integration, experiential events, personalization, and wellness and wellbeing.
Event planners can stay informed about the latest event trends by attending industry conferences and events, following thought leaders and influencers on social media, and subscribing to industry publications and newsletters.
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