by David Twigger October 20th, 2020
With all that has happened to our industry, I found myself wanting to do more. I have spent the last 6 months like most of you watching zoom calls, sitting in on webinar after webinar, panel discussions, research and more. I finally, thanks to the local chapter of HSMAI (Hotel Sales and Marketing Association International), had a chance to put all of that time to good use.
After months of planning it finally took place on October 15th at the Sonesta Suites Scottsdale Gainey Ranch. Working directly with their team and my production partners Latest Craze Productions we pulled off a very smooth (not without a glitch) but enjoyable and very informative event.
I was asked to help plan and be their keynote speaker for their first hybrid event.
We capped the number of live attendees so to accommodate the space we had. We took advantage of both inside and outside spaces… used safety protocols and even had an amazing lunch available.
Discussed were the platforms to look at, the relationships to have and how to handle expectations. Those expectations have definitely changed during these past months. Attendees are savier, sassier and much less impatient when it comes to technology.
My high points for planning a hybrid meeting or event, were knowing technology needs vs. wants, understand your goals, and taking a long hard look at the guests journey. Both the physical journey of your in person attendees and your virtual attendees. You need to sync these journey’s as much as possible.
The video link allows you to view the presentation (though filled with lots of information) goes by fast. The presentation itself, “How to Hybrid” starts at minute 6:
Vermilion Events has fast become the experts on hybrid events. If you have inquiries please reach out. Small meetings to large conference planning, social to non profits events, we are here to assist.
