Educate

Tips & Trends

As a planner, you spend months preparing for an event and days pulling it off. And the work doesn’t end when the meeting wraps. Leveraging event content and engaging with attendees on social media can support business goals like growing brand awareness, establishing thought leadership, driving future event enrollment, and even securing sponsors.
Admittedly, capturing and conveying the essence of an event might be easier said than done, says Miguel Neves, editor-in-chief of Skift Meetings. “Post-event engagement is very hard. When they’re there, people communicate, network, connect, and get inspired,” he says. “But once people go home, they can lose the magic of that live event.”
The key to getting it right is a combination of knowing your goals, planning ahead, and relying on support when you need it.

<h2>Start With Your Purpose</h2>
Before your event, it is important to determine your content goals. Are you hoping to entice people to sign up for your next meeting? Drive brand awareness or conversions? Convince a sponsor to re-up their support? Defining your desired outcome can help you decide on the right kinds of content to post.
“We ask our clients, ‘What is a measurable key performance indicator that will tell us the content is working?’” says Clark Campbell, CEO and co-founder of event content agency RVRB. “Then, we make content that drives to that goal.”
If you want to drive enrollment, an exciting recap reel on Instagram might do the trick. Meanwhile, a sound bite of a company’s CEO delivering an inspiring address can position the individual as an expert in the industry, and a splashy video featuring a sponsor might move the needle and convince a brand to take part in the next event.

<h2>Plan Ahead</h2>
Don’t expect to capture great content without a solid strategy in place—especially if you’re caught up in the busyness of your event. As spontaneous as social media allows one to be, capturing an inspiring interview with a speaker or a viral TikTok featuring attendees requires being in the right place at the right time.
“The biggest thing really is planning ahead,” says Joe Kuehne, associate editorial director at content marketing agency Manifest. “I keep a very detailed schedule of how I’m spending my time, and I set up all of my interviews well in advance.”
Kuehne often interviews keynote speakers, company executives, and high-profile event guests. He recommends allowing extra time to film videos so that the interviewees are comfortable. “I typically capture three-minute videos, but I set aside a half hour for every single interview,” he says. “That gives us enough time to set up equipment, meet the individual, and get familiar with the space before we start.”

<h2>Bring in a Specialist</h2>
During an event, your day is packed: checking in with vendors, coordinating speaker schedules, answering questions, and handling unexpected challenges. Naturally, capturing high-quality content may not be your top priority. Instead, consider hiring a content concierge or agency that can take that task off your hands.
“Planners are just so busy, and relying on them to capture content and post about it is going to add a lot of stress,” Neves says. “I recommend hiring someone who can really interpret your event and convey it well. If it’s important to your content strategy, then it’s a worthwhile investment.”
Campbell adds that agencies can help you define your goals and plan corresponding content that doesn’t just check boxes—it tells compelling stories. “We’re really looking at what makes a video interesting. Is it painting the customer that’s watching the video as the hero in their own journey? Is it talking about the problem they’re facing?” he asks. “Our job is to make the people who are watching feel like they could get ahead in life if they just attended this event.”

<h2>Leverage Smart Technology</h2>
Capturing video, photos, and audio of your event is just the first step. The real work is transforming those raw moments into engaging, relatable content that tells your event’s story and resonates with your audience. That’s where artificial intelligence can play a useful role, helping you edit clips, generate captions, repurpose recordings, and streamline posting. With the right tools, you can turn simple footage into polished content that extends your event’s reach long after it ends.
“There is a whole wave of AI that can be used for social media,” Neves says. “You can transcribe audio from event sessions and get session summaries for blog posts, or use tools where people can easily find themselves in photos from the event and share them.”
Useful AI-powered social media tools include:
● Image editors: Apps like<a href="https://www.canva.com/"> </a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.canva.com">Canva</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.adobe.com/express/">Adobe Express</a> can generate images or edit photos with the tap of a screen—no training needed.
● Audio transcription: Upload your event audio to<a href="https://www.rev.com/"> </a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.rev.com">Rev</a> or<a href="https://otter.ai/"> </a><a target="_blank" href="https://otter.ai">Otter.ai</a> and you’ll get fast transcripts and smart summaries that can be leveraged for blogs, recap posts, or shareable quote graphics.
● Social planning and posting: Platforms like<a href="https://socialbee.com/"> </a><a target="_blank" href="https://socialbee.com">SocialBee</a> and<a href="https://sproutsocial.com/"> </a><a target="_blank" href="https://sproutsocial.com">Sprout Social</a> provide personalized insights and posting recommendations, analyze post performance, and even generate captions.

Global

Pro Tips for Sharing Your Event on Social Media

Capturing Better Event Content

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&amp;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 &amp; 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&amp;B – Food &amp; 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.

<h2>Final Words</h2>
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.

Drowning in Meeting Alphabet Soup? Read Our Guide to Common Acronyms, Abbreviations, and More

What Does BEO Stand For? And Other Meeting Planning Terms 

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.

Appealing to a Wide Range of Ages in the Workplace Is Easier Than You Think

5 Event Engagement Ideas to Connect With Every Generation

Network

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.

When It Comes to Planning a Successful Event, Begin With the End in Mind.

4 Steps to Creating an Event to Remember

Promote

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.

Try These Playful, yet Professionally Appropriate, Ways to Bring Fun Food Trends From the Past Into Your Next Event.

Embrace the Nostalgia: 10 Ways to Incorporate Comfort Foods Into Event Menus Give Attendees a Taste of Childhood

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

Articles