Food costs have always fluctuated, but over the past few years, planners have felt those changes more acutely and more frequently. Ingredients shift in price, availability can change week to week, and labour costs continue to rise. The result? Menus have become one of the most sensitive parts of the event budget. That said, higher food prices don’t have to lead to scaled-back experiences. In fact, some of the most successful events I see today are the ones where…
The business events industry is experiencing renewed momentum. Organizations are once again investing in live experiences to drive connection, learning, culture, and economic impact. Business events continue to play a meaningful role in tourism, hospitality, and local economies. At the same time, industry research points to a persistent labour shortage. Post-pandemic attrition, retirements, and the pace of recovery have created workforce gaps across planning, production, sales, and operations. Together, these realities present both opportunity and responsibility. If demand continues…
In the past several months, I have had several people ask me about bending the rules around business situations or client asks. Some asked, “When is it OK to bend the rules?” while others have questioned not so much “when” but rather “is it OK to bend the rules?” I thought long and hard about this and then consulted several industry leaders for their feedback and thoughts. We all agreed that it is OK to bend the rules. There…
The meetings, event and incentives industry is facing a talent reckoning. According to the Incentive Research Foundation’s 2024 Future of the Incentive Workforce report, more than three-quarters of meetings and incentive professionals are experiencing talent or skills shortages. At the same time, more than 70 per cent of potential job seekers have never considered a career in our industry. Not because it lacks appeal, but because they simply do not know the opportunities that exist within our industry. This…
Corporate events sit at the crossroads of brand, culture, environmental, social, and governance and talent retention. At the same time, expectations around diversity and inclusion have moved well beyond the token vegetarian option and the land acknowledgement at the mic. The reality: many organizations still treat inclusion as a compliance box. It shows. The event looks expensive, but it doesn’t feel considerate. Inclusive design, done properly, doesn’t dilute a premium experience — it creates it. When people feel seen,…
For years, the conference industry has been locked in a familiar pattern: more sessions, more speakers, more choices, more movement. We try to pack value into every hour — often forgetting that attendees aren’t empty vessels waiting to be filled. They’re human beings with nervous systems, responsibilities, lived experiences, and limits. But the most transformative events I’ve ever delivered — and attended — don’t feel like that. They feel intentional. Spacious. Grounded. Human. And they have more in common…
In the world of corporate events — from conferences and meetings to trade shows and award shows — production budgets are often treated as a necessary expense. Yet in reality, event production and audio visual production are among the most powerful tools for generating measurable return on investment (ROI). ROI in event production isn’t limited to head counts or applause. It’s about achieving the objectives that justify the event in the first place — whether that’s strengthening client relationships,…
Most business owners understand the importance of insuring their physical assets —property, equipment, vehicles —and securing coverage for day-to-day operations. Commercial general liability is standard, protecting against third-party bodily injury and property damage. Yet one of the most significant threats to a company’s financial health doesn’t come from physical loss at all. It comes from the decisions made inside the business. Management liability insurance is designed to address these internal risks, covering the exposures that arise from leadership decisions,…
by Heather Reid After decades of reviewing, negotiating, and rescuing event contracts, I’ve learned one universal truth: every professional needs a checklist – but not just any checklist. A checklist that you understand inside and out. Because while a checklist can help you stay organized, only understanding can help you stay protected. Checklists are powerful tools. Pilots use them before every flight; surgeons use them before every operation. They keep professionals consistent, focused, and safe. But here’s the key: a…
Choosing the right speaker can make or break your event. Your speaker sets the tone, engages the audience, and reinforces your event’s purpose. So how do you find the best speaker for your event? Define Your Event Goals Before starting your search, define what you want your audience to gain from the experience. Do you want to inspire, educate, motivate, or entertain? Your answer will help determine whether you need a thought leader, motivational speaker, industry expert, or someone…
