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Planning an event that engages baby boomers, Gen X, millennials, and Gen Z? It might sound like the start of a family road trip joke, but in today’s event environment, it’s a reality.
Today’s workforce includes a staggering six generations—a first in modern history—reports the <a target="_blank" href="https://hbr.org/2024/04/leading-the-6-generation-workforce">Harvard Business Review</a>. For event planners, that means crafting experiences for everyone from Silent Generation leaders still holding top roles to Gen Alpha teens just beginning their careers through internships and summer jobs. In between are boomers, Gen X, millennials, and Gen Z, each with their own preferences, motivations, and ways of engaging. It’s a new era of multigenerational meetings, and planners are at the center of it.
With 49% of marketers saying that audience engagement is the biggest contributing factor to hosting a successful event, according to a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cvent.com/en/blog/events/event-statistics#toc-attendee-engagement-statistics">2025 Cvent report</a>, the challenge is quickly becoming how to captivate such a diverse range of ages. As we know, it’s no longer enough to simply get people in the room; you need to make them want to stay there, too, which requires creative thinking.
Nicole O’Leary, creative director of The <a target="_blank" href="https://theexpogroup.com">Expo Group</a>, has said that a successful multigenerational event is “all about learning, connection, and experience.”
So how do you cultivate that? One trick is to think of a multigenerational event as a family vacation: You won’t please everyone with every activity, but with enough thoughtful variety, everyone leaves feeling like the trip (or in this case, the event) was worth it.
Here are five inspired ways to plan events that resonate across age groups:

<h2>1. Gamification</h2>
Make learning and networking fun for everyone. Gamification isn’t just for tech-savvy Gen Zers. When done well, it can get boomers, Gen X, and millennials in on the action too.
Gamification levels the playing field and brings out a shared sense of fun, competition, and participation regardless of age.
From event-wide scavenger hunts to interactive breakout challenges, gamified elements can boost participation, deepen learning, and encourage spontaneous connections. Apps like <a target="_blank" href="https://www.zuddl.com/platform/attendee-mobile-app">Zuddl</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.eventmobi.com/event-apps/">EventMobi</a> allow you to create challenges that reward actions like attending sessions, visiting sponsor booths, or connecting with other attendees.
Pro tip: Be sure to include QR codes on physical signage to make the experience seamless for those less app-inclined.

<h2>2. Analog zones</h2>
In an age of constant connectivity, sometimes the best way to engage people is to help them unplug.
Advertising Week notes that Gen Z may be the most nostalgic generation yet—more interested in looking back than ahead. They’re driving the return of retro fashion, analog tech, and old-school socializing, not just for the aesthetic, but because they value authenticity. For event planners, this means Gen Z is seeking real-world connection: shared moments, offline interactions, and a sense of community that goes beyond likes and follows.
But it’s not just Gen Z. Analog zones—quiet, tech-free spaces with tactile activities like journaling, origami, or vinyl listening stations—speak to boomers’ nostalgia, Gen X’s love of the tactile, and millennials’ quest for balance.

<h2>3. Mystery guests</h2>
Everyone loves a surprise.
Announce that a “mystery guest” will appear during a keynote or evening program but keep the identity under wraps. The trick is to choose someone with broad, cross-generational appeal. Think: a retired Olympian, an iconic musician, or a celebrity chef known across multiple decades.
As Julius Solaris, an events consultant and creator, wrote in Skift Meetings, “Planned surprises could be a great addition that break routine and make attendees happy. Surprises immediately move attendees to take pictures or videos.” (Bonus: This can provide special social material after the fact.)
If your budget allows, go big. If not, go creative. A viral YouTuber and a legendary journalist on the same panel? That’s cross-generational magic!

<h2>4. Multigenerational mixers</h2>
Instead of organizing networking by industry role or title, try organizing mixers by life stage or learning goals. A “Rookie + Vet” mixer could match up attendees early in their careers with seasoned professionals. A “Reverse Mentorship Happy Hour” might pair Gen Z social media experts with boomers looking to expand their digital skills.
Why does this work? According to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.deloitte.com/global/en/issues/work/genz-millennial-survey.html">Deloitte Global’s 2025 Gen Z and Millennial Survey</a>, both generations crave connection and meaning at work. And boomers and Gen X value legacy and sharing hard-won knowledge. Creating space for meaningful exchange helps every generation feel like they belong.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to set the mood with music that spans decades, from Fleetwood Mac to Beyoncé to Doechii.

<h2>5. Pop-ups</h2>
These stations can appear unexpectedly during breaks or between sessions, offering fast, interactive experiences with a regional or generational twist. Why it works: It’s low pressure, quick to rotate through, and sparks intergenerational dialogue in the process.
Examples include:
“Try This!” Tables with nostalgic snacks or regional bites (think: Gen Z tries boomers’ favorite childhood candy, and vice versa).
Mini Skill Booths like “Learn to DJ on Vinyl,” “Analog Photography in 5 Minutes,” or “Speed Tarot + Journaling.”

<h2>Final thoughts</h2>
No two generations are exactly alike. And that’s exactly what makes multigenerational events so dynamic. Whether you’re welcoming seasoned execs, up-and-coming leaders, or digital natives just starting out, remember: You’re not just planning an event. You’re building a temporary village where everyone—no matter their birth year—feels like they belong.

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For event planners, creating a memorable meeting is always the ultimate goal. Yet, the concept of a “memorable event” can be quite abstract. So instead of simply aiming for something memorable, it might be more effective to focus on concrete outcomes: What do you want the word on the street to be after your event? This shift in perspective can help ensure that every aspect of the event is tailored to achieve specific, desired reactions from attendees.
One way to get the ball rolling is to visualize what a favorable outcome looks like. Imagine the conversations your attendees will have as they leave the event. What are the key takeaways you want them to discuss? What emotions do you want them to feel? This clarity can keep you on track throughout the planning process. Here’s a guide to building a guaranteed positive post-event glow.

<h2>Step 1: Define Your Desired Outcomes</h2>
Begin by identifying the specific outcomes you want for your event. Consider these questions:
● What key messages or themes should attendees remember?
● What emotions do you want to evoke?
● What actions do you want attendees to take after the event?
For example, if you’re planning a corporate retreat, you might want attendees to leave feeling inspired and motivated, discussing new strategies they learned, and eager to implement changes in their daily work. So you may consider team-building exercises like ropes courses or problem-solving challenges, or even an escape room, to build camaraderie. Perhaps you even want to dedicate more of your budget to a memorable closing event featuring an awards ceremony for the winners of these exercises.

<h2>Step 2: Create a Memorable Experience</h2>
With your desired outcomes in mind, the next step is to design an experience that will achieve them. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Engaging Content Ensure your content is relevant and engaging. This means selecting speakers who can deliver your key messages effectively and incorporating interactive elements such as Q&amp;A sessions, workshops, live polls, or panel discussions so that participants can have a voice as well.
Atmosphere and Ambiance The environment plays a crucial role in shaping attendees’ experiences. Choose a venue that reflects the tone of your event, and pay attention to details like lighting, seating arrangements, snacks and meals[1] , and decor. A well-thought-out atmosphere can enhance the emotional impact of your event.
Networking Opportunities Facilitate meaningful connections among attendees. This could be through structured networking sessions, casual social events, or even interactive activities that encourage collaboration, including speed networking sessions.
Personalization Personal touches can make attendees feel valued and special. This could be as simple as personalized name tags or as ornate as customized welcome kits or gifts that include items like monogrammed notebooks, custom pens, or branded merchandise tailored to attendees’ preferences or profiles.
Suggest linking to comfort foods piece.

<h2>Step 3: Monitor and Adjust During the Event</h2>
During the event, stay attuned to the mood and reactions of your attendees. This can be done through real-time feedback tools, observation, and direct conversations. If something isn’t working as planned, be prepared to make adjustments on the fly. For example, if attendees are becoming lethargic, consider canceling a programmed activity to give everyone a little extra downtime—or make it optional. Flexibility is key to ensuring that the event stays on track to achieve your desired outcomes.

<h2>Step 4: Gather Feedback and Reflect</h2>
After the event, gather feedback to assess whether you achieved your goals. Surveys, social media monitoring, and post-event discussions can provide valuable insights. Compare the actual outcomes with your initial visualization. Were attendees discussing the key messages? Did they leave with the emotions you intended to evoke?
And last but not least, reflect on what worked well and what could be improved. This process will not only help you evaluate the success of your event but also inform the planning of future ones.

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In the ever-changing world of event planning, trends come and go, but some classics have a curious way of always making a comeback. Case in point: nostalgia food. In fact, macaroni and cheese, root beer floats, and good old PB&amp;J sandwiches have become stars of Gen Z’s culinary journey back to simpler, heartwarming times, according to our in-house experts, who have noticed a trend among young people finding comfort and inspiration in the dining styles of their grandparents.
As event planners, embracing this movement is a good way to add a fun flair to your menus, whether as casual finger foods or sit-down dining options.

<h2>Capturing the Essence of Comfort</h2>
Nostalgia foods evoke memories of childhood, so it’s no surprise that they don’t just satisfy physical hunger, they also resonate on an emotional level, offering a sense of familiarity to attendees. Serving them at an event tends to put guests at ease—and by extension, make mingling more enjoyable. Just what any event planner strives for!
For events that call for casual mingling and networking, consider the following finger foods:
● &nbsp;Mini Macaroni and Cheese Bites Serve bite-sized portions of creamy mac and cheese in elegant shot glasses or small bowls. Consider offering variations like truffle mac and cheese or lobster mac and cheese for a gourmet twist.
● &nbsp;PB&amp;J Sliders Transform the classic PB&amp;J sandwich into a mini slider. Use artisanal bread, gourmet peanut butter, and homemade jams or preserves for a sophisticated take on this lunch-box staple.
● &nbsp;Root Beer Float Shooters Serve small glasses or shot glasses filled with root beer and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s festive and relatively mess-free.
● &nbsp;Grilled Cheese Triangles Upgrade the traditional grilled cheese by cutting several of them into triangles and serving them with a variety of dipping sauces or gourmet toppings like caramelized onions or bacon jam.
● &nbsp;Potato Chip Crusted Chicken Tenders Give chicken tenders an old-timey feel by coating them in crushed potato chips before baking or frying. Serve them with a selection of sauces—such as ranch, barbecue, and honey mustard—for added flavor.
For sit-down dining experiences, try:
● &nbsp;Three-Cheese Macaroni Gratin Create a luxurious macaroni and cheese gratin using a blend of aged cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheeses. Serve in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation.
● &nbsp;Root Beer Braised Short Ribs Braise short ribs in a root beer-infused sauce until tender and flavorful. Serve with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a hearty and satisfying main course.
● &nbsp;Gourmet Root Beer Floats Offer a sophisticated alternative to the classic root beer float in place of an after-dinner drink by using artisanal root beer and house-made vanilla or bourbon-infused ice cream. Garnish with a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of sea salt.
● &nbsp;PB&amp;J-Stuffed French Toast Use thick slices of brioche filled with creamy peanut butter and berry compote. Drizzle with maple syrup or dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
● &nbsp;Dessert Trio Serve mini salted caramel brownies alongside bite-sized lemon raspberry tartlets and chocolate-dipped strawberries. This combination offers a rich, sweet, and tangy variety that will delight guests with familiar comfort foods and surprising flavors.
When incorporating nostalgia foods into your event menus, keep in mind the presentation, flavors, and overall theme of your event. Aim for a balance between quirky and classic (for example, campy picnic food served in chic baskets). And don’t forget to match the music and signage to the mood. All that will be left to do is sit back and watch as your guests take a culinary trip down memory lane—one bite at a time.

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Excellent planners know that having a robust backup plan is not just a precaution—it’s a necessity. Just ask Desirée Knight, CAE, CMP, DES, immediate past chair of the board of directors for the Professional Convention Management Association and senior director of meetings and events for the American Psychological Association. “I once had a speaker fall off stage,” she says. What saved her (and her speaker) was having emergency contacts on file so that she could secure the right help immediately, and keep the show on track.
Now, Knight begins all of her industry events with a safety briefing. “A lot of venues have different procedures. It would be sad if something happened and you weren’t clear about the process. That eats up time,” she says.
The primary reason for having a backup plan is to avoid scrambling on-site when things go wrong, Knight says. “Someone once said ‘never let them see you sweat,’” she says. “I live by that. We have everything from earthquake to travel delay plans.” She also says that it’s crucial to go through all of your backup plans at the beginning of every planning meeting. This ensures that all stakeholders are aware of the procedures and can act swiftly in an emergency.
Investing time, money, and energy into a backup plan is crucial, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are six viable backup plans for common event scenarios:

1. Speaker Delays
Plan: Have a list of potential replacement speakers.
Action: Identify leaders among your internal attendees who can step in if needed. This way, if your keynote speaker gets held up at the airport, someone is ready to take over.
2. Emergency Supplies
Plan: Prepare an on-site emergency trunk.
Action: Stock it with essentials like flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit. This covers almost any eventuality, from power outages to minor injuries.
3. Lost Equipment
Plan: Identify local rental options.
Action: Have backup suppliers lined up. This prevents lost or damaged equipment from derailing your event by ensuring you can quickly replace what you need.
4. Strikes and Protests
Plan: Develop crowd control strategies.
Action: Create plans to manage crowd control and maintain access to the venue in case of strikes or protests outside the event site. This will enable your attendees to enter and exit safely and without disruption.
5. Travel Disruptions
Plan: Assess your risks.
Action: Evaluate the risk factors for each city where your event is held. Be sure to have measures in place, such as travel insurance and a clear refund policy, to handle unexpected disruptions like a ground stoppage of planes.
6. Planner Problems
Plan: Centralize your information.
Action: Knight recommends documenting absolutely everything about an event—from names and contacts of attendees to food vendors—and keeping it in what she calls a “staging guide,” so that if your key planner is unable to complete their duties, anyone can step in and manage the event.

<h2>Who to Involve in Your Backup Plan</h2>
Creating a backup plan should not be a solo endeavor. Knight advises involving stakeholders and team leads in the planning process. “Don’t do this in a silo,” she says. “It’s essential to get input from those who can provide valuable insights and quick thinking in a crisis.”
Involving stakeholders helps to guarantee that the plan is comprehensive and practical. It also fosters a sense of ownership and accountability among team members, which can be crucial during an emergency.

<h2>Planning Ahead</h2>
Planning an event and its contingency plan should go hand in hand. Even if you’re planning years in advance, start your backup plan years in advance, too, so it can develop alongside the main event.

<h2>Stay Zen</h2>
By investing time and resources into creating comprehensive contingency planning, event planners can maintain their calm. But mental preparedness is important, too. Coming from a mental health background, Knight advocates for taking a moment to center yourself before executing the backup plan. There, don’t you feel better already?

Six Ways to Prepare for the Unexpected at Your Next Event.

How to Plan for the Unplanned

As an event planner, you’re on your feet for hours on end, often navigating various terrains and dealing with unexpected physical challenges like moving furniture and unpacking large boxes. While the adrenaline of executing a perfect event can be exhilarating, the wear and tear on your body—especially your feet—can take a significant toll from head to, well, toe. In this article, we’ll investigate what faulty footwear can do to your feet and help you find shoes that put you in better standing at all your events.

<h2>What Bad Footwear Does to Your Body—And Mind</h2>
Ill-fitting shoes can cause blisters, bunions, corns, and calluses. Over time, they can also lead to more severe problems like hammertoes and plantar fasciitis. “Furthermore, prolonged wearing of uncomfortable and non-supportive shoe gear increases the risk of biomechanical deformities that may affect an individual’s physical activity level and lifestyle,” says podiatrist Sindhu Srinivas, DPM, who is based in Atlanta.
Lack of proper support can also strain your ankles, knees, hips, and lower back, leading to chronic pain and potentially long-term damage. Tight or poorly designed shoes may also affect your vascular system, restricting blood flow, causing swelling and increasing the risk of conditions like varicose veins.
And that’s just the physical effects! As anyone who has ever spent a minute in uncomfortable footwear can attest, it can also impact your mental state tremendously, leading to decreased productivity, irritability (a major liability during high-pressure situations), and even reduced confidence, making it harder to engage with clients and execute your vision with authority.
We turned to Srinivas for pointers on finding suitable event footwear options, no matter your personal style.

<h2>Sneakers: The All-Rounder</h2>
The days of formal footwear are (mostly) over. For event planners, stylish sneakers, as opposed to running shoes, are perfectly acceptable given today’s trend toward business casual. (Marriott has even unveiled a branded white leather sneaker for planners[1] , which made its debut at the recent Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) conference.) And that’s good news since sneakers are generally a safe option for your feet. When selecting them, be sure to look for:
● Good arch support to distribute weight evenly and reduce stress on your feet.
● Adequate cushioning to absorb shock, protecting your joints and reducing fatigue.
● Breathable materials that allow air to get to your feet, reducing the risk of blisters and fungal infections.
● Durable, high-quality materials that can withstand long hours of use.
● A firm foundation: Srinivas suggests testing the shoe’s foundation by trying to bend the shoe at the toe box. “If the shoe folds easily, it may not provide solid foundation or support,” she says.

<h2>Boots: Rugged and Reliable</h2>
Boots, particularly hiking boots, are ideal for outdoor events, or when you need extra support. The key features to look for include:
● A supportive ankle to prevent twists and sprains. “It may be beneficial to choose high-top boots, which enclose and provide stability to the ankle joint. This may reduce incidence of sprains, falls, discomfort, and instability,” Srinivas says.
● Waterproof material to keep your feet dry and comfortable in various weather conditions.
● Good traction to prevent slips on uneven or slick surfaces.
● Sufficient padding and arch support to keep you comfortable throughout the day.

<h2>Heels: Elevated Elegance</h2>
While heels can add a professional and stylish touch, and may still be a go-to for evening events, they can also cause serious pain and damage if not chosen wisely. When picking heels, opt for:
● Heels no higher than 2-3 inches with a thicker base to reduce strain on your feet and lower back.
● Cushioned insoles to give you extra comfort and support.
● A wide toe box to prevent pinching and allow your toes to move freely.
● Wedges with ankle straps and an open toe box (as an alternative to traditional heels). “Ankle straps will support the joint while preventing excessive movement,” Srinivas says.

<h2>Comfort Shoes: The Best of Both Worlds</h2>
Comfort shoes combine style and support, making them ideal for long days on your feet. When selecting comfort shoes, choose:
● Ergonomic designs, which follow the natural contours of your feet, providing support where needed.
● Adjustable straps or laces to ensure a snug fit.
● Shock absorption to reduce impact on your joints.
● Breathable materials to keep your feet cool and dry.
The kicker: Srinivas recommends having your feet measured prior to purchasing any shoes you’ll be wearing for long stretches at a time to guarantee a proper fit, as your feet change size throughout your life.

TK

TK

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