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Meeting and event management involves the planning, coordination and execution of meetings, conferences, trade shows and other events.
AOE’s event planners work with you and your team to understand your objectives and requirements. We then develop and implement plans to meet those needs.
This may involve selecting venues, managing budgets, coordinating with vendors, arranging transportation and accommodations, and overseeing the event on the day of execution.
The goal of meeting and event management is to create a successful and memorable event that meets your objectives and exceeds attendees' expectations.
Key Resources
FAQs about Meetings and
Event Management
What are the 5 Cs in event management?
The five Cs in event management are a framework for planning and executing successful events. The five Cs are:
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Concept: This refers to the core idea or theme of the event. It encompasses the overall vision, goals, and objectives of the event. The concept should be clear and well-defined, serving as the foundation for all other planning decisions.
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Coordination: This involves organizing and managing all the event elements. This includes tasks such as securing a venue, arranging food and beverage, managing logistics, and coordinating with vendors and suppliers. Effective coordination ensures that everything runs smoothly and according to plan.
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Communication: Communication is crucial in event management. It involves conveying information to stakeholders, participants, and attendees. This includes creating invitations, sending out promotional materials, managing social media, and providing clear instructions and updates to everyone involved.
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Cooperation: Cooperation refers to the collaborative effort among all parties involved in the event, including planners, vendors, sponsors, and participants. Cooperation ensures that everyone works together towards a common goal, contributing their skills and resources to make the event a success.
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Control: Control is about monitoring and managing the event to ensure that everything goes according to plan. This includes having contingency plans in place, addressing any issues that arise, and maintaining a calm and organized approach throughout the event.
By focusing on these five Cs—concept, coordination, communication, cooperation, and control—event planners can create and execute successful events that meet their objectives and leave a positive impression on attendees.
What are the 7 steps of meeting/event planning?
The seven stages of event planning are a comprehensive outline that covers the essential steps for organizing a successful event.
Step 1: Define Goals/Objectives
Define the purpose of the event and establish clear objectives. Understand what you want to achieve, whether it's to raise awareness, generate leads, or celebrate an occasion.
Step 2: Set Budget
Determine the financial resources available for the event and allocate them appropriately. This includes expenses for venue rental, catering, entertainment, marketing, and other aspects of the event.
Step 3: Select Venue
Choose a suitable venue that meets the needs of the event, considering factors such as location, capacity, amenities, and accessibility for attendees.
Step 4: Develop Timeline
Develop a detailed timeline that encompasses all necessary tasks and key points prior to the event to include who from the team is responsible for what task. This timeline should encompass deadlines for vendor bookings, event promotion, invitation dispatch, and other critical activities. A meticulously organized timeline will help maintain order and prevent any oversights.
Step 5: Coordinate Vendors
Identify and secure vendors and services needed for the event, such as catering, audiovisual equipment, transportation, and security. Negotiate contracts and ensure all agreements are in place.
Step 6: Implement an effective marketing strategy
Develop a marketing plan to promote the event and attract attendees. Utilize various channels, such as social media, email marketing, advertising, and public relations to reach the target audience.
Step 7: Event Execution
On the event day, ensure that all preparations are complete for a seamless execution. Collaborate closely with vendors and personnel to provide attendees with a seamless experience. Stay composed and ready to manage unforeseen obstacles with poise and efficiency.
These seven steps provide a structured approach to event planning, helping to ensure that all aspects of the event are carefully considered and executed.
What are the 5 Ps of event marketing?
The five Ps in event marketing are a variation of the traditional “marketing mix” tailored specifically for event marketing. These five Ps can serve as a useful framework for event marketers to consider when promoting an event, as they cover key aspects of the marketing mix and help ensure a well-rounded and effective marketing strategy.
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Product: In event marketing, the "product" refers to the actual event itself. It includes the overall concept or theme of the event, the activities, entertainment, speakers, and other experiences that will be offered. Essentially, it's what attendees will be getting when they attend the event.
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Price: This refers to the cost associated with attending the event. It includes ticket prices, registration fees, and any additional costs for optional activities, merchandise, or services. Pricing strategies can vary depending on the target audience, event goals, and budget considerations.
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Place: In event marketing, "place" refers to the venue or location where the event will take place. It includes factors such as the physical space, layout, capacity, accessibility, amenities, and any special requirements for the event to be successful in that specific location.
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Promotion: This refers to the marketing and communication efforts used to promote the event and attract attendees. It includes strategies for reaching the target audience through various channels, such as social media, email marketing, advertising, public relations, and word-of-mouth.
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People: This refers to the individuals or groups involved in planning, organizing, and participating in the event. It includes stakeholders, sponsors, vendors, speakers, performers, volunteers, and, most importantly, the attendees themselves. The success of an event often depends on effectively engaging and managing the people involved, from planning to execution.
By incorporating these components into your event planning and marketing plan, you can guarantee optimal attendance figures, efficiently publicize your event, and achieve the highest possible return on investment (ROI).
Whether you are planning an in-person, virtual or hybrid event, AOE can help you along the way, working with you on your event marketing, boosting attendance and enhancing engagement.
What information should be included in creating a detailed event timeline?
Planning an event is a complex task, but a thorough event timeline simplifies the process and ensures seamless execution. Below is a guide detailing the essential information for creating a comprehensive event timeline.
Pre-Event Planning
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Initial Planning Phase (6-12 months before event):
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Define the Event Objective: Clearly articulate the purpose of the event and the desired outcomes
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Budget Planning: Develop a budget, including projected revenue sources and expenses
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Date Selection: select a date that avoids major conflicts and is convenient for the target audience
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Venue Selection: Research and secure a venue that meets the event’s requirements
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Team Assembly: Form a planning committee and assign specific roles such as logistics, marketings and sponsorship
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Detailed Planning Phase (3-6 months before event):
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Vendor Selection: Identify and contract vendors for caterings, audio-visual equipment, entertainment, décor, etc.
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Marketing Plan: Create a marketing strategy to promote the event, incorporating social media, email campaigns and press releases
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Sponsorship and Partnerships: Identify and approach potential sponsors and partners
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Program Development: Develop the event schedule, including speakers, sessions and networking activities
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Registration Setup: Establish and online registration platform and begin promoting ticket sales
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Countdown to Event
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Final Preparations (1-3 months before event):
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Finalize Details: Confirm all arrangements with vendors, the venue and speakers
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Guest List Management: Monitor registrations and send reminders to attendees
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Logistics Coordination: Organize transportation, accommodation for VIPs and other logistical needs
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Marketing Push: Intensify marketing efforts to increase last-minute registrations
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One Week Before Event:
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Confirmations: Reconfirm all arrangements with vendors, speakers and volunteers
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Pack Materials: Prepare name tags, programs and other necessary event materials
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Final Walkthrough: Conduct a final venue walkthrough to ensure readiness
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Day of the Event
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On the Event Day:
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Setup: Arrive early to supervise the setup of the venue, including signage, registration desk and vendor stations
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Registration Desk: Ensure the registration desk is staffed and equipped with attendee lists and materials
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Event Coordination: Monitor the follow of the event, address issues promptly and maintain communication with the team
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Engagement: Interact with attendees, gather feedback, and ensure their needs are met
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Closing: Oversee the conclusions of activities, extend gratitude to speakers and attendees and initiate the breakdown process
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Post-Event Follow-Up
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Post-Event Activities (1 week after event)
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Thank You Notes: Send thank-you emails to speakers, sponsors, attendees and team members
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Feedback Collection: Distribute a post-event survey to gather feedback and insights
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Financial Reconciliation: Review and reconcile the event budget, accounting for all expenses and revenue
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Debrief Meeting: Conduct a debrief meeting with the planning team to discuss successes and areas for improvement
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Report Writing: Compile an event report summarizing key metrics, feedback and lessons learned
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Continuous Improvement
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Ongoing:
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Review and Adjust: Analyze feedback and data to improve future events
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Maintain Relationships: Foster ongoing relationship with key stakeholders, sponsors and attendees
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Plan Ahead: Begin preliminary planning for the next event, leveraging insights and feedback from the current event
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By adhering to this detailed event timeline, you ensure meticulous planning and executive, resulting in a successful and memorable experience for all participants.
What factors should I consider when choosing an event venue?
When selecting an event venue, various factors must be taken into account to ensure the success of your event. Below are key considerations:
1. Location
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Accessibility: Ensure the venue is easily accessible for all attendees, considering transportation options and parking availability.
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Proximity: The venue should be conveniently located nears accommodations, such as airports, hotels, dining options and other attractions if needed.
2. Capacity and Layout
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Numbers of Guests: Verify that the venue can comfortably accommodate your expected numbers of attendees
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Layout Options: Check if the venue offers flexible seating arrangements to suit the nature of your event
3. Amenities and Services
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Facilities: Confirm the availability of essential facilities such as restrooms, AV equipment and Wi-Fi
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On-site Support: Determine if the venue provides on-site staff for assistance during the event
4. Cost and Budget
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Pricing: Evaluate the cost of renting the venue and what is included in the price to make sure it aligns with your budget
5. Availability
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Date Flexibility: Ensure the venue is available on your desired dates
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Booking Policy: Understand the venue’s booking policies, including deposit requirements and cancellation terms
6. Catering Options
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In-house Catering: If the venue provides catering, review menu options and dietary accommodations
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External Vendors: Confirm is external caterers are allowed and whether there are any associated fees
7. Technical Aspects
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Audio-Visual Needs: Make sure the venue can support your AV requirements, such as microphones, projectors, and sound systems
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Internet Access: Confirm that there is reliable and sufficient internet access based on your needs
8. Reviews and Recommendations
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Reputation: Research the venue’s reputation through reviews and testimonials from previous clients
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References: Seek recommendations from colleagues or industry contacts who have hosted similar events
By thoroughly evaluating these factors, you can choose a venue that not only meets your logistical needs but also enhances the overall experience for your attendees.
How do you measure the success of an event?
Measuring the success of an event involves evaluating various metrics and performance indicators that align with the goals set for the event. Here is a glimpse into the often-used measures and techniques:
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Attendance Numbers: The number of registered attendees is a clear indicator of your event’s interest and reach. Compare these figures with your expected attendance to gauge success.
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Attendee Satisfaction: Collecting participants feedback through forms or surveys to assess aspects such as content, venue, organization, and overall experience. High satisfaction levels typically signal a successful event.
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ROI (Return on Investment): Evaluate the financial gains relative to the expenses incurred. This includes revenue from ticket sales, sponsorships and additional income, compared to costs such as venue rental, catering, and promotional activities.
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Media and Social Media Presence: Gauge the event’s visibility via media coverage and level of engagement such as mentions, shares, and hashtags on social media platforms. Increased engagement can imply interest and influence.
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Networking Opportunities: Assess the quantity and quality of networking opportunities provided. Effective networking indicates that attendees derived additional value beyond the primary content.
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Impact on Goals: Examine if the event accomplished its intended goals. This might encompass educational outcomes, business leads, partnerships established, of awareness amplified.
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Post-Event Activities: Track what attendees do after the event. Are they following up with contacts made? Implementing ideas discussed? Taking actions that align with the events’ purpose?
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Return Attendance: If relevant, track the number of attendees that show up for future events. This reflects ongoing interest and satisfaction.
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Qualitative Feedback: In addition to ratings and numerical data, qualitative feedback from stakeholders, speakers, sponsors, and attendees is highly valuable. It provides insights into what resonated well and areas that can be improved.
To gain a comprehensive view of event success, multiple measures often need to be integrated. The selected metrics should align with the event’s objectives and can be tailored to specific goals and contexts.
How can AOE help with your next event?
AOE’s tailored event planning services are meticulously designed to meet your specific needs and budget, ensuring a truly personalized experience. We maintain a wide network of reliable and high-quality vendors, guaranteeing the best services and products for every event. Our innovative event design and technology integration will create unique and memorable experiences for your guests. With our dedicated and experienced event coordinators managing every detail from start to finish, your event will be seamless and stress-free. Choose AOE for your next event and experience unmatched excellence.