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As I write this, there are more than 375,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19. The world is struggling to get this under control, and we as individuals are struggling with the unknown. How long will this last? What do we need to do to end this? How can we stay safe? Why can’t the politicians agree on anything? And in our meetings industry, what do we do to survive this?

“What does a professional conference planner actually do?” Hmmm. Think about that question for a few quick seconds. I can’t even get my mind around it right now, and I’m not sure if it’s because of these crazy times, or because our jobs are so complex.

As event planners, we often get asked how we juggle it all, including motherhood. 

The DE team took individual DISC assessments... how did our results turn out? Eerily accurate.
 

Congratulations on your decision to host a conference! So, what comes next?

Designing Events and Kiddie Academy® Educational Child Care team up for a conference to remember.

When you were young and dreaming about what you wanted to be when you grew up, you probably didn’t know what a meeting planner was.

​You’ve spent the last year meeting every week with the conference committee, your team; talking to the venue, city managers and transportation companies… and now, it’s here. A behind the scenes look at what gameday is like for a conference planner.

Do you have that “go to” tech tool you use for every conference or event? Maybe it’s an app, or a device, or a software program that makes your life easier.  Whatever the “it” is, don’t be afraid to explore other things. 

After a grueling year of details, planning, programming, logistics, travel, and last-minute changes, your conference date is finally here, and attendees are arriving with high expectations for an informative and entertaining event. You’ve finalized sessions and presenters based on topical relevance and professional expertise. But, are your speakers as prepared as you are? How can you be sure your presenters/speakers will entertain, engage, educate and delight your audience?

As you plan your next conference, you’re likely thinking about topics and speakers for keynotes, breakout sessions, and workshops. Which topics will inform and educate your attendees? Which speakers will connect with, and more importantly, inspire your audience during live sessions? And, you’re probably sitting there trying to figure out what you can do that’s new, innovative and will capture your attendees interest (early and often).

In 2016, it was expected that 86% of events would incorporate an event application (fondly referred to as an app). By 2017, 76% of those who hadn’t yet done so would be adopting the practice. Apps increase attendee engagement, reduce costs, promote sponsors, and provide accurate real-time analytics. 

You’ve selected the perfect location for your next conference, trade show, or meeting – maybe you selected it for the history, the culture, warm weather, or family activities. Now what can you do to bring the location into the conference experience?