What Does BEO Stand For? And Other Meeting Planning Terms

From the moment you send out an RFP to the final Post-Con debrief, event planning is a language all its own. Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned pro, mastering this shorthand can make communicating with venues, vendors, and stakeholders faster, clearer, and more professional.

Herewith, a go-to glossary of key acronyms, abbreviations, and terms every event planner should know, with a few insider “Marriottisms” to keep you ahead of the curve.

ADAAG – Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines

Essential for inclusive planning. These federal standards help ensure your event is accessible to all attendees, from ramps to restroom signage.

APEX – Accepted Practices Exchange

An initiative from the Events Industry Council, APEX sets best practices and standards to streamline event planning and execution.

Attrition

The difference between contracted room nights and actual bookings. Falling short usually results in a fee, so keep an eye on your room block!

A/V – Audiovisual

Microphones, projectors, video walls—this is the tech backbone of your event. Always clarify A/V needs early to avoid last-minute surprises.

BEO – Banquet Event Order

Also called an EO (Event Order) at Marriott, this is your event’s playbook. It includes every detail, from timing and F&B (see below) to A/V and staffing. Think of it as the venue’s roadmap to successful execution. Note: SEO – Schedule of Events — is a related term in Marriott-speak. It covers setup and logistics only, no food or beverage.

CAD – Computer-Aided Design

Software that allows you to visualize room layouts and floor plans. It’s particularly useful for large-scale or multi-room events.

CMP – Certified Meeting Professional

A designation awarded by the Events Industry Council, this credential signifies a high level of expertise and professionalism.

CRM – Customer Relationship Management

A platform for managing client data, event history, and communications—essential for long-term client engagement and repeat business.

CRS – Central Reservation System

A database used to manage hotel bookings and room blocks. Helpful for ensuring group rates and availability are aligned.

CSR – Corporate Social Responsibility

It’s a strategy more than a buzzword these days. CSR in events often includes sustainable sourcing, charitable partnerships, or minimizing environmental impact.

CSM – Convention Services Manager

This is the venue’s logistics point person—referred to as the Event Manager (EM) or Senior Event Manager (SEM) at Marriott. They’re your go-to contact once the contract is signed.

CVB – Convention & Visitors Bureau

A city or regional organization that helps connect planners with local venues, activities, and resources. Often a hidden gem for insider knowledge.

DMC – Destination Management Company

A local event partner who can arrange transportation, off-site experiences, or team-building activities. Think of them as your on-the-ground expert.

DMS – Destination Management System

A platform used by DMOs (Destination Marketing Organizations) to market a region and help coordinate large events and tourism.

ESG – Event Specifications Guide

A detailed document that outlines all your event’s needs. Think of it as your master planning file, which includes everything from Wi-Fi requirements to signage instructions.

FAM Trip – Familiarization Trip

A complimentary or subsidized trip for planners to experience a destination, venue, or vendor firsthand. A great way to vet options before committing.

F&B – Food & Beverage

Refers to all catering-related services. You might also hear it called B+F at some Marriott brands. It includes everything from breakfast buffets to custom cocktails.

GDPR – General Data Protection Regulation

If your event collects attendee data from EU citizens, this law applies. It governs how personal data is collected, stored, and used.

KPI – Key Performance Indicator

Used to measure event success. Popular KPIs include Return on Investment (ROI), Net Promoter Score (NPS), and attendee engagement.

MICE – Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions

A global term that refers to the business events industry. MEEC (Meetings, Events, Exhibitions, and Conventions) is a similar variation.

NPS – Net Promoter Score

A common KPI that measures attendee satisfaction. Attendees rate how likely they are to recommend the event; a higher score usually means higher impact.

PDR – Private Dining Room

A semi-private or exclusive dining space often used for VIP dinners or sponsor events.

Pre-Con/Post-Con

Pre-Convention and Post-Convention meetings generally take place with your venue team to align on final details and review how everything went.

Price++

That “++” means service charge and tax are not included in the listed price. A $100++ menu could mean $125+ per person after fees, so budget accordingly!

RFP – Request for Proposal

The first step in sourcing a venue or vendor, an RFP outlines your event’s needs and invites potential partners to submit proposals. A well-crafted RFP can save hours of back-and-forth later.

ROE – Return on Equity/Return on Event

This abbreviation wears two hats: ROE can refer to financial gains from an event or to broader benefits like brand awareness and long-term relationship-building.

ROI – Return on Investment

One of the most important metrics for any planner. It measures how the financial and strategic benefits of an event stack up against its cost.

ROS – Run of Show

A detailed, minute-by-minute schedule that outlines exactly what happens and when. It’s what keeps planners, vendors, and talent on the same page.

SMERF – Social, Military, Educational, Religious, and Fraternal

A key audience segment for planners. These groups often have unique planning needs and budget considerations.

VAT – Value-Added Tax

A consumption tax widely used outside the U.S., especially in the EU. Always check if it’s included in international quotes.

Final Words

Memorizing every acronym and abbreviation isn’t necessary, but keeping this list handy? That’s just smart planning. Whether you’re finalizing BEOs or calculating ROI, these terms help keep everyone aligned.