by Angela Zaltsman Any event, big or small, requires acute logistical planning and the ability to manage many moving elements at one time. This often includes a laundry list of to-dos, from sourcing vendors, coordinating timelines, selecting décor, planning for contingency, and more. This is no easy feat for most, which is why the infamous quote “if you want a job well done, hire a professional” exists. Event planners are relied upon to create, organize and implement anything from intimate…
Catering is evolving in exciting ways, shaped by shifts in consumer preferences, environmental awareness, and culinary innovation. Whether you’re planning a corporate gathering, a private celebration, or a community event, understanding these trends can elevate your menus and create memorable experiences for your guests. Here are three of the most impactful trends in catering today and practical ways to bring them to life at your next event. Vertical Farming: From Micro Greens to Mushrooms Vertical farming is revolutionizing how…
In the ever-evolving landscape of event production, the journey from concept to execution requires more than just technical expertise — it demands a delicate balance of creativity, innovation, and practical application. I’ve witnessed firsthand how the fusion of technical knowledge and creative vision can transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences across Canada’s corporate and social event landscape. The foundation of any successful event design lies in understanding not just what clients want, but what their audience needs to feel.…
Any event planner that was working in the industry before the COVID-19 pandemic will tell you that one of the most notable changes since 2020 has been the rising costs of event food and beverage. From a breakfast muffin to a plated dinner every menu has seen substantial increase. We’ve watched as inflation pushed grocery prices higher and both in-house chefs and external catering companies inevitably followed suit. While we’ve started to see prices stabilize, a new phenomenon has…
by Joe Nishi and Jennifer Glynn Hotel contracts in the events industry can feel like a complex dance. It’s a tango between high-stakes planning and “how many ways can this go wrong?” Add in some post-pandemic contract language, recent hurricanes, labour disputes, and a Taylor Swift concert, and you may find yourself in a stressful situation. We are not lawyers. But, we have 30 plus years of experience and want to help you navigate the new, post-pandemic, ‘normal’ in contracting. …
With consumers and employees facing frustrating inflation and challenging price scenarios, corporations are being more cost and perception-aware than ever. Event sponsorship will be looked at with sharp lenses, evaluating just how much positive brand profile and community building each opportunity offers. Executive buy-in is important for success. Venue demand remains high, indicating that events are still taking place regardless of budget tightening and optics management. With this comes increasing pressure for events to lock in their venues perhaps…
by Tahira Endean Earlier in 2024 I looked at the many stressors we have facing us as event professionals. It can feel overwhelming, and this leads to everything from a mild sense of panic to procrastination and eventually burnout. We take on external pressure and we add our own expectations of ourselves, and often the social media image we have built of ourselves. If you are reading this when the holiday season is looming, you have probably added on another…
As another year winds down and the holidays begin, great companies look for ways of celebrating and thanking their staff. In today’s world, how can a company mindfully celebrate and engage their team in a manner that’s meaningful, exciting, unique and festive but also tasteful and inclusive? Mostly gone are the days of purely lavish, over-the-top parties — today’s events are more intentional. As event planners we need to dig deeper and get to the heart of the matter.…
We all know storytelling works. We are all aware that stories are engaging. They influence people. They inspire and excite. As authors Dan and Chip Heath illustrate in their research, 63 per cent of presentation attendees remember the stories told, while only five per cent remember statistics. Storytelling is critical for you and your organization. We always seem to be on the hunt for great stories to tell that will focus on or accentuate the point or message we…
In the world of corporate events, creating a space that captivates and energizes attendees is key. Event planners are constantly seeking innovative ways to make these gatherings more impactful. One powerful yet often overlooked tool is greenery. By designing spaces that align with nature-based themes, companies can create environments that not only enhance the attendee experience but also amplify the event’s goals. While technology, lighting, and floorplans all play crucial roles in event design, one often underestimated event element…
