Thank you to all the members and non-members
who attended this year’s Education Conference
at the Indiana Landmarks Center.
We would like to thank the many sponsors for their support; Venue Sponsor: Indiana Landmarks, Catering Sponsor: MBP Distinctive Catering, Linen Sponsor: Chair Covers & Linens, Accommodations Sponsor: Crown Plaza at Historic Union Station, AV Sponsor: Markey’s Rental & Staging, Photography Sponsor: Megelaine Images, Speaker Sponsors: Snappening, Thomas Caterers of Distinction, Detail + Design, Party Time Rental and Accent on Indianapolis. We are extremely grateful for your contributions!
Here is a brief recap and highlights of the day courtesy of Laura Lim (of Eventfull Planning), your communications committee team member.
It was a beautiful fall morning as attendees gathered. After registration (and a cup of coffee), we enjoyed the opening remarks and the Keynote Presentation from Lisa Hurley, Editor of Special Events Magazine. As it is important to know where you have been to know where you are going, Lisa shared with us a recap of the past years’ facts and figures. In 2011, ‘No Décor’ décor was favored. Neon, metallic and monochromatic color pallets were in style. Current trends that are continuing into 2012 are ‘small bite’ food presentations and creating new culinary twists on classic menu items. Cocktails using herbs and fruit will also continue to be used. Another lasting trend (with budgets still being closely watched) is to use a large-scale piece as opposed to many smaller décor items. Lisa suggested the use of lighting to help you get the most ‘bang for your buck’. Looking forward to 2012, we can expect more ‘Eco-Chic’ events. Use local foods, local talent, LED lights and battery-powered lighting units to reduce your carbon footprint. Next year, we can expect to see both masculine color pallets of grey, black and burgundy as well as bright color combinations inspired Indian culture. Last but not least, we can expect continued integration of technology and social media into our events.
In one of two early breakout sessions, Kevin White (CSEP) talked about the human experience. Kevin shared the value in leaving guests with an emotional connection to the event. It is essential to know not only your objective for the event, but your audience as well. It is not enough just to transport someone to another time or place though décor. A great event leaves a lasting impression on the attendees. We discussed how to create that experience with smell, taste, sight and sound. We also – with laughter - explored the importance of meeting a guest’s wants vs. their needs. You may want a martini, but you need an accessible restroom.
In one of two later morning sessions, Ryan Hanson (CSEP) said that it was time to stop decorating and start designing. We discussed the notion of what “event design’ really means. For those of us in the industry, event design means much more than just linen or lighting. It is a strategic approach to planning an event as a whole. To be successful, one must consider all aspects. In today’s society, if you are not grabbing someone’s attention immediately, you have lost your opportunity. Events must get people talking – NOW! Facebook, Twitter, Blogs. You want your attendees talking about your event before, during and after. Ryan suggested that you use your event to tell a story or incorporate interactive elements throughout the space. In today’s event industry, the audience is the most important asset of the event. Your goal when designing events should be that each individual is able to find value in attending.
Lunch was broken out into a variety of roundtable discussion topics. Attendees were able to choose their table based on interest. The discussion topics included: Super Bowl, New Food Trends, PACE Awards and much more. Attendees had the opportunity to sit with a speaker whom they might not have heard or one where they wanted to foster further communication. After a creative hors d’oeuvres-style first course and entrée, guests had the option to change tables and topics for dessert.
After lunch, we gathered for an informational session about all things Super Bowl. Guest speaker Tony Fay, VP of Communications on the 2011 Dallas Host Committee, shared his experience as part of a first-time host city. Missy Berg, Manager of Special Events, and Susie Townsend, VP of ICVA and VP of Guest Welcome and Super Service for the 2012 Indianapolis Super Bowl Host Committee answered Q & A from the industry audience. Knowledge is power as we prepare for this amazing opportunity!
Thank you again to all who sponsored and attended. The images provided were by Megelaine Images & we can't thank them enough for capturing this day so we can share with all of you. Please check our facebook page 'Ed Con 2011' Album for more.
We are already looking forward to next year’s Education Conference!
See you next month for our Healthy Holiday Entertaining luncheon on November 18, 2011 from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM at the Conrad.