December 2011 - PlanAnEvent.org

Promoting an Event and Product Launch…Hello, Good Bye…

December 30, 2011 By Randy Markus Comments

Photo courtesy of Leo Reynolds

When it comes to promoting an event and a company is looking for income growth and development, new products are one of the best opportunities for success.

Say goodbye to the good old days when if you had a new product to launch you could just put it online and expect success. Or you could easily put together a press release and send it out to spread the news. And you know what, if you had a product or service that had value and people wanted to buy it, then basically, no matter what it was, success could be yours. Today consumers receive information in so many different and various ways that we can no longer just write a press release and expect success.

Promoting an Event and Product Launches… Help!

If you are looking for a successful product launch, and aren’t we all, there are a lot of factors to bear in mind including social networking, email marketing and even some traditional ways too.

A great product can take a nose dive, even if the product is the best thing since sliced bread. To avoid failure, and to plan like the majority of event planners, a product launch takes a great deal of pre-planning, organization, communication and hard work.

Promoting an Event and Product Launches – Social Networking…

Countless people are receiving their information and news via social networks, so this is the ideal location to get your product and product launch info in front of your audience. So once the product is market ready and you are planning for the launch, updating and utilizing the various social networks is a great way to inform current and future customers. First, ensure all of your information on all of the different social networking platforms is correct and kept up to date. Then, by composing specific messages for each platform and by using the variety of online tools out there to manage your accounts, you will be able to communicate with all your followers and connections.

Of course the social network platforms are chock-full of possible customers and people very willing to communicate and pass on your information. So always be sure to deliver the most effective and invaluable material and put to good use all the different channels (podcasts, pictures, live chats and videos) around to profile your new product and product launch.

Promoting an Event and Product Launches – Email Marketing …

Today the consumers hold all the power when it comes to product marketing. They truly can make or break the launch of a new product. So if you’ve been in business for any amount of time you will have accumulated customers and a pre-qualified customer list. Marketing your product launch to a specific list that is tried and true and familiar with your company is a great way to offer teasers, sneak peeks and helps you to build on the business relationships you have already secured.

The body of the email can often be the most difficult part. Some of the questions we ask ourselves over and over again when using email as a marketing tool include; how many emails are too many? What is the right frequency? And always at the top of the list, what is the smartest message that will encourage the reader to click through? Sometimes the answers come with research and sometimes with trial and error, with the latter being the most important.

Content, content, content is the take away point, be sure to fashion your message in a way that offers valuable and beneficial information while ensuring your message gets the recipients excited about the launch event and gets them talking. Focus on the people, not the product or the event.

Promoting an Event and Product Launches – Tradition, Tradition, TRADITION…

These days it seems like the various kinds of social media (Twitter, Facebook et al) receive all the attention. Print, TV and radio are still around and within arm’s reach and continue to be a useful and valuable way to spread the word. Depending on the scope of the product launch event, the traditional media is a great source to extend your reach and connect with people.

In addition, there are tons of other traditional and, proven ways to promote an event including direct mail, speaking engagements and tradeshows (to name just a few). Take the time to research and understand the demographics and attitudes of the kind of people you want to touch. Traditional methods still work and you will be glad you included them.

The fact is, when it comes to product launches and promoting an event it is imperative to do your research, think it through, plan and utilize all the elements out there to help. By attracting the appropriate clientele you will turn that product launch into something special and get everyone talking and purchasing. And that’s exactly the reason you’re doing it!

Filed Under: Planning An Event Tagged With: eventable, eventplanning, eventpromotion, events, planning

Event Planning Website – To Dream an Event Planning Dream!

December 29, 2011 By Randy Markus Comments

Photo courtesy of Jenny and Tony Bot

These days in the event planning world when looking for inspiration the first place to look is an event planning website.

Do you dream of having a job where no three days are the same? Do you fantasize about having a career that is vibrant, fun and exciting? Where the word boredom isn’t even part of the vocabulary? Are you looking to unleash all your creativity and vision and plan and create some of the most unforgettable events?

You’ve read about it, heard all about it and even seen it on TV and in the movies. And you’re pretty sure you want to be one but truly you have no idea exactly what event planning actually entails.

Event Planning Website – Event Planning, What’s it all About?

Synonym.com outlines the basic definition of an event planner as “someone who plans social events as a profession”. Prior to getting in to the industry, do any of us really even know what being an event planning expert is all about? Are we aware of all the various positions and what they involve?

For numerous reasons you’ve decided that event planning is the gig for you! Once that decision has been made there are a lot of other things to consider. What type of planner you want to be and what role you want to take on? What industry sector are you interested in, corporate, incentive, fundraising or wedding planning? There are an unbelievable amount of prospects and at this juncture it is imperative to wade through the opportunities and find the situation that is right for you.

Event Planning Website – Whatever You Do Don’t Miss FabJob.com!

When looking at and considering a job or career change, to gain some insight, all the regular guidelines apply. Number one, do your research, speak with other professionals in the industry, network-network-network. Consider volunteering your time working with event planners on events and meetings. In addition, there are some really helpful and resourceful websites available to assist you in your decision.

As the old saying goes, you can never be too thin or have too much knowledge. And while there are a lot of great event planning websites out there, there is one in particular that I have referred to and that will help you with every step you make.

Fabjob.com was founded in 1999. In addition to being an e-book industry innovator as well as an award honored publisher, Fabjob.com leads the way in the world of event planning. Their website and FabJob guides provide career guidance, industry information and recommendations to help anyone interested in breaking into the event planning world, or as they say finding your “Dream Career”. Whether interested in becoming an event planner or starting up an event planning business FabJob is a fabulous place to start.

They have been featured in various media including AOL, CNN, Essence, Oprah’s newsletter and many more. FabJob’s mission is “to assist fabulous people who are ready to achieve their dreams.”

When making earth (or career) shattering choices and decisions, knowledge and experience are the name of the game. Looking to get established in the industry? Be sure to do your due diligence, do your research and don’t overlook all the great event planning websites out there to help!

Corporate Event Planning – We All Need a little Help
The Planning Meeting-You Won’t Do What?
Event Planning NYC Edition-Where to Look for Companies to Assist You

Filed Under: Planning An Event Tagged With: eventable, eventplanner, eventplanning, events, planning

Party Planning Companies – The Stars of the Party Planning World

December 28, 2011 By Randy Markus Comments

colin cowie tending bar at a private event

Photo courtesy of Merriment Events

Party planning companies come in all shapes and sizes and party planners are employed to design some of your most important and unforgettable occasions. They look at and tackle each and every party as an empty slate. They handle all of the details with kid gloves by placing a great importance on all of the particulars and by coming up with the ultimate blend of party elements and ingredients. Party planning companies come in all shapes and sizes and party planners are employed to design some of your most important and unforgettable occasions.

There are all sorts of party planning companies. The planners are just like us, they are creative, unafraid and innovative. But what makes a difference and makes them seem more glamorous is they plan those awesome and larger than life special events and parties for the stars. And in our industry, these party planners are the stars.

Party Planning Companies – Celebrity Party Planner

Located in Los Angeles, the celebrity party planner known as Happy Parties has delivered party planning assistance for over 25 years. And they have worked with an extensive range of clientele including everyone from large organizations and corporations to celebrity clients including Cher, Kirstie Alley, Kim Kardashian and Johnny Depp. They take great pride in providing a uniquely personalized touch that leaves everyone feeling special. They are a one stop shop in premier party planning services and they have the experience and resources to organize and coordinate “the best party ever!”

Party Planning Companies – Colin Cowie Group

With corporate offices in Los Angeles and New York, Colin Cowie is the cream of the crop when it comes to party and special events planning. When he first started he did it all. He was the one who would purchase and arrange the florals. Colin would spearhead the business and marketing side as well as prepare the tables, pour the wine serve-up the meal and when it was all done, he helped clean up too. He puts his all into everything he touches and as he says “It’s kept me at the top of my field.”

Colin Cowie is one of the most pursued and requested event and party planners around, especially within the celebrity and media world. With an elegant and fashionable style he and his team take their love of planning coupled with their expertise and experience to a new level. They can and will transform just about anything and make it truly spectacular. His brand has grown to include speaking and television appearances, books and magazine articles. Colin Cowie is known for spectacular parties that have made him a favorite with Oprah Winfrey, John Travolta and Jerry Seinfeld, to name just a few.

Whether planning parties for the famous or for the not so famous, party planners have the same philosophy to plan and execute the best party ever and to leave the guests on edge waiting for their invite to the next soiree.

Filed Under: Planning Parties Tagged With: parties, party, partyplanners, partyplanning, planning

Event Planning Conferences – Everything Event Planning…All Under One Roof!

December 27, 2011 By Randy Markus Comments

Photo courtesy of Thomas Hawk on flickr

Event planning conferences really do prove that when looking to learn everything under one roof is the perfect storm.

Every year when we watch the Grammys we’re blown away by the live performances…no lip syncing here! There are always a few acts who bring their performances up to the next level and blow everyone away (Rickey Martin and Michael Jackson come to mind). I’m not sure if it’s because it’s the Grammys and they’re performing in front of not only a live audience, but also millions of viewers. But I think the main reason is because they’re performing in front of a room full of their peers. That adds a whole bunch of extra pressure to the situation.

Whenever I go to a conference for industry people I always get that Grammy feel of things…that added pressure on the people throwing the conference for industry professionals. And while most of us are forgiving and understanding, there are also a lot of us who expect perfection at all times. Especially in situations like that. Now that’s pressure baby!

Event Planning Conferences – The Point of it All

Almost every industry has annual or semi annual conferences and why should event planners be any different? It gives us the chance to network and share ideas all while seeing how someone else plans and deals with the fun and games that comes along with conference planning. Sweet!

Most of the event planning conferences I have had the pleasure of attending are incredible. Detailed, informative and a heck of a lot of fun. And why not? It’s being planned and run by some of the industry’s best! And I’m almost always able to pickup (aka steal) a few new ideas that I can factor into my own programs. Double sweet!

Event Planning Conferences – Highlighting a Few

While there are several industry organizations, there are a few conferences that are definitely in the must see column.

Meeting Professionals International (MPI) – With over 23,000 members worldwide, MPI is one of the leading meeting planner’s organizations. With multiple international events offering education, trade shows and the opportunity to network, MPI is truly the big daddy of event planning conferences.

Special Events Magazine – The Special Event, held by Special Events Magazine, is an industry trade show that covers everything event, conference and meeting planning! The Special Event 2012 is taking place in Tampa Bay and includes information on event tools and resources, design and event management, education and more. The market place alone has almost 200 vendors including suppliers from categories such as entertainment, design and decor, catering and more.

Event Planning Conferences – Why You Should Attend

Now keep in mind I may be a little biased but…I think industry conferences (regardless of industry) are definitely a must attend. They’re a great chance for education, information and networking. I always pick up new and exciting ideas that I can use in future meetings and it’s a great place to connect and reconnect with colleagues, suppliers and clients, both new and old.

Event Planning Conferences are a fantastic way to stay relevant and up to the minute on everything meeting and event planning while having fun and connecting with colleagues both near and far!

Upcoming Event Planning Conferences That You May Want to Consider
Corporate Event Planning – We All Need a little Help
Important Event Planning Certification Dates in 2012
Resources for Finding Event Planning Careers

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: eventable, eventplanners, eventplanning, events, mpi, planning

Event Planning Information – The Debutante Ball

December 26, 2011 By Randy Markus Comments

7 ladies in white strapless dresses at a debutante ball

Photo courtesy of El Photo

When it comes to event planning there really are more events than you think that require attention. It was recently reported on People magazine’s web site (and countless others) that Tallulah Willis, the youngest daughter of Bruce Willis and Demi Moore, was presented at Le Bal des Débutantes, a modern day debutante ball in Paris.

The original purpose of a debutante ball was to give the upper classes an opportunity to present their daughters to society; a coming of age affair signifying their availability on the marriage market.

So is a ritual that began in the mid 16th century still relevant more than 500 years later?

Event Planning Information – What the Heck is a Debutante Ball?

We have Queen Elizabeth I to thank for what many consider a sexist and elitist custom. But in all fairness, QE1’s reign occurred from 1558 to 1603, so things were a little different back then. When the custom of formally presenting eligible young women at court began, there weren’t a lot of choices for women. It was either marriage to a man or marriage to god. Unmarried woman were a rarity and usually viewed with suspicion (what’s wrong with her?). So for the upper classes, it was a welcome venue to present their unmarried daughters to acceptable society.

Fast forward three hundred years and Queen Victoria put her own spin on it, insisting that the girls be dressed in white gowns to signify their innocence. Society was pretty stringent back then and parents kept their daughters under a tight guard. Their “coming out” presented them to society and meant that courting could begin. It also meant that these girls could be seen in public with a man without everyone freaking out. It’s kind of amazing the kind of changes 150 years have wrought.

Although Queen Elizabeth II ended the formal court presentation of the debutante ball, the ritual has continued, both in the UK and around the world.

Event Planning Information – The Modern Day Debutante Ball

While early Americans had parties, both formal and informal, the debutante ball didn’t make its official debut until the mid 1700’s. Wealthy Americans traveling abroad had experienced it while in Europe and loved the custom. Post Civil War, with many fortunes lost, for a time it became less about family wealth and more of a symbol of social status and lineage.

Debutante balls, coming-out-parties, cotillions and debuts are still held across the country but are more prevalent in the south. Today, in addition to being a social event, it is often also a charity event. The modern debutante (deb) is expected to raise money through ticket sales and program advertising with the money going to a predetermined charity.

Event Planning Information – How to Plan a Debutante Ball

A formal, invitation only event, costing hundreds of dollars per ticket, a debutant ball isn’t thrown together in a week. They require several months of planning and there are a lot of things to take into consideration.

What – Sometimes a debutant ball is planned by committee for a group of debutantes (such as the Le Bal des Débutantes in Paris where Miss Willis was presented with 22 other young ladies) and sometimes parents choose to independently throw a coming out party for their daughter.

When – As with any major party, several months of planning is required. Pick a date at least six to eight months in advance. Traditionally debutante balls are held between November and January (when the eligible bachelors would be home for the holidays).

Where – Although debutante balls were once held at the family home (all the better show off your wealth), today the venues are varied. Country clubs and high end hotels are popular locations but interesting and different venues have also become more socially acceptable.

How – As mentioned above, sometimes the debutante ball is planned by committee, leaving parents with the easy task of paying for the privilege of having their daughter participate (as well as sell tickets). If planning one on your own, there are several event planners across the country that specialize in debutante balls. And of course, Google, Google, Google to ensure all the traditions have been included

Although originally intended to introduce young woman to society, the debutante ball is, for many, just another excuse to throw a great party. And while many may consider it to be an old fashioned ritual further exposing the divide between the classes, smart and savvy event planners see it as just another business opportunity.

Filed Under: Planning An Event Tagged With: eventplanning, events, parties, planning

How to Promote an Event-the Bethlehem Edition

December 23, 2011 By Andrew Maxwell Comments

Christmas day, December 25, is one of the holiest days in the Christian calendar. It’s the day that Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. If marketers were operating then, as they do today, the biggest question would’ve been how to promote an event of this magnitude. You see, as the story goes, Joseph and Mary were on their way to Bethlehem to pay their taxes. There was no room at the Inn (now remember this point, especially from a marketing point of view). As a last resort they were forced to stay in a manger and…, well, as they say, the rest is history.

Our friends at Funny or Die have a different take on that event. Put yourself in the position of the hotel that turned the, now famous, couple away. In hotel terms that’s called “walking”. Can you imagine the missed opportunity of how to promote an event as the place where this son of God was born. Let’s just say the owners of the hotel didn’t take this news very well.

A word of caution – some language in the video below may not be suitable for all viewers.

The Inn Keeper w/Sam Trammell from Sam Trammell

Even Pres. Obama Uses Social Media to Promote an Event (plananevent.org)
Event Planning Training-the Fawlty Towers Edition (plananevent.org)
Promoting an Event – Nobody Does it Better than Kim Kardashian (plananevent.org)
Non-Event Event Planning (plananevent.org)

Filed Under: Planning An Event Tagged With: Christmas, comedy, comedy video, funny or die, promote an event, promoting an event, video, videos

What’s Involved with the Business of Event Planning?

December 22, 2011 By Andrew Maxwell Comments

So you think you would like to be an event planner. The business of event planning certainly has its rewards. However, I often find people tell me they want to be in event planner for the wrong reasons. They love going to social events and parties that are the talk of the town. And it’s because of their love for parties that they think they would make an excellent event planner. Well they might but that certainly is not the main reason that you should get in the business of event planning.

The Many Components to the Business of Event Planning

When people tell me they want to become an event planner because they love to socialize I usually tell them to stop and think about what’s involved with the business of event planning. Unfortunately, socializing is something you won’t be doing too much of while you’re working. Or if you are there’s probably an aspect of your job that you’re not looking after.

For someone that’s interested in the business of event planning there are many factors for them to review. Some of the characteristics of a typical event planner are;

Strong organizational skills

the ability to multitask (although I really hate that word)

the ability to lead others

and the ability to take direction themselves

budgeting skills

To name just a few. Just looking at the characteristics above will tell you that if you’re in the business of event planning your typically one busy person. And if you do like to socialize or attend parties then perhaps the business of event planning is not for you. Quite often your working hours extend well into the evening as many of your clients functions will be taking place at these times.

The business of event planning can be very rewarding. For me, as I came from a hotel background, entering the event planning world was a natural fit. I was used to working under pressure and under strict deadlines to make sure that my events went off without a hitch. And coming from hotels budgeting became my second name. It’s not that you necessarily like budgeting rather it’s that you become very good at it because it’s a common task of your job. If you’re someone that enjoys the pressures of deadlines and you have the ability to make quick decisions on the fly, then the business of event planning just might be for you.

Event Planning Degree – Yeah or Nay? (plananevent.org)
Do You Use Event Planning Software (plananevent.org)
Ever Wonder What Professional Event Planning Is like? (plananevent.org)
Challenges for Event Planning Companies Today (plananevent.org)
What Sets Top Event Planning Companies Apart from the Rest (plananevent.org)
Use a Template to Help with Event Planning Ideas (plananevent.org)
Today There Still Are Ways to Make Profits in the Event Planning Business (plananevent.org)

Filed Under: Planning An Event Tagged With: budgets, Business, event planning, event planning resources, event planning tips

What to Expect for a Meeting Planner Salary

December 21, 2011 By Andrew Maxwell Comments

Whenever I speak to students or young professionals that are studying to become a meeting and event planner, the top question that I get asked is “what is a typical meeting planner salary”. I tend to go off on tangents regarding whether or not they’re self-employed or whether they work for a large association or corporation. But that doesn’t seem to satisfy them. So they’ll often asked the question again in different ways to try and see if I have a figure in my head.

The Event Planner Salary Depends on the type of Event Planning Job

Okay the direct answer. As we stated here before, the median salary for a meeting and event planner in the United States is $55,453. But the issue that I have with telling someone what the median salary range for a meeting planner is that then this figure gets locked in their head. And when they start interviewing for event planning jobs that they thought they would like, they’re finding their not being offered a salary anywhere near this range. Now that could be due to the recession that we seem to be stuck in lately. But you also have to step back and realize that there are many different types of meeting and event planners.

For Self-Employed Individual the Meeting Planner Salary Is Conducive to the Amount of Business

Even before the recession set in, many people that I know in the meetings and events industry were self-employed individuals. For the right personality type being a meeting planner and working for yourself can have a lot of benefits. For one, the salary range can be unlimited as it’s directly related to the amount of business that you book. But using that same line of thinking, if there’s no business then the meeting planner is probably the last person to receive a paycheck. And in a recession the latter is probably more the norm.

There is a bit of good news regarding event planner jobs. PCMA ( Professional Convention Management Association) will be publishing a survey which shows that those with event planning certification tend to have higher salary than those planners without. Certainly another reason why investing in yourself and becoming certified is a great idea.

Many meeting planners that have become self-employed often start their careers working in planning departments for large associations and/or corporations. After all the meetings industry is very large in the US. And believe it or not, even during a recession, meetings still occur. The hospitality industry as a whole is a huge driver of the economy in the US. It’s usually after the meeting planner has learned the ropes, so to speak, that they tend to venture off on their own. Most likely they have made a reputation for themselves and find it easy to secure new business. For these people the salary is a lot higher than the medium $55,453.

photo by havenoftiogacounty.org

For those that are wondering how to become an event planner, my best piece of advice is always look at volunteer positions first. Many CVB’s are always looking for volunteers or ambassadors to help welcome large conferences and events to their cities. This is a great way to network as well as get involved in the industry to see if it’s for you. Another option is to check with meeting and event planning companies to see if they are offering any internships for which you can apply.

The medium meeting planner salary of $55,453 has a lot of variables factored in. For those meeting planners that are working for corporations and associations they would tend to fall in line with the medium. The real variable for meeting planners comes into play for the self-employed meeting planners. For those meeting planners that become self-employed after establishing themselves in the corporate world, the salary range tends to be higher than the medium. However for those meeting planners that have been forced into the self-employed world because of downsizing,may find that their salary will not hit the medium until they’ve had a chance to establish themselves.

It’s a Small World for an International Meeting Planner (plananevent.org)
What Sets Top Event Planning Companies Apart from the Rest (plananevent.org)
I Want to be an Event Planner – How Much Does the Job Pay? (plananevent.org)
Meeting Planning Tip-Save Money by Selecting the Right Venue (plananevent.org)

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: event planning, event planning resources, eventplanning, eventprofs, meeting planner, meeting planning, meetingprofs, salary

Event Planning in Washington DC

December 20, 2011 By Andrew Maxwell Comments

When you think of Washington, DC all too often we think of the political side to that city. Images of the bickering and fighting that seems to go on forever between the Democrats and Republicans often overshadows how great our nation’s capital really is. There are lots of meetings and events that occur in and around Washington DC. Event planning in Washington DC is a feat that’s best left to a seasoned event planner as there are many logistical issues that need to be addressed.

If Your Event Planning in Washington DC Then You’re amongst the Best

If you’ve never been to the capital then you really have to plan a visit here. The museums alone can keep you occupied for days on end. The venue spaces are plentiful and there are many varieties of venues to choose from. For those that have been in the meetings and events industry for some time, know that Washington DC is home to some of the largest associations in the country (well, the world actually). Many seasoned event planners have lived and worked in Washington DC having worked for one of these associations. Suppliers always wanting to get a piece of the Association business spend a lot of time in and around DC doing sales calls.

For anyone that is planning an event in the DC area is well advised to utilize the talents and expertise of Washington’s CVB -Washington.org. Here you’ll find many links regarding activities and the service providers available to you. You can also take advantage of their expertise by contacting Washington.org and having your meeting or event executed through their experienced sales team. Once you do that your information will be sent to the appropriate suppliers list. From there, you’ll have plenty to choose from as the service providers will contact you (if desired) with their ideas for your meeting or event.

For anyone event planning in Washington DC, the CVB has a great meeting planner page. Here you’ll find all kinds of information, such as facility searches, information about the Walter E Washington Convention Center, additional supplier information (such as housing, registration, speakers, exhibitors and planning guides), information and images to help you put your information together as well as a list of contacts that are available to assist you.

Event planning in Washington DC is abundant with resources and suppliers to suit every event planners needs. The capital is a great place to host a meeting or event. However there are logistical issues (after all there’s a lot of protocol that goes along with this city) that you need to be aware of. Washington.org is a great place to start your search. From here you can link to additional resources and services available to you to help make event planning in Washington DC a breeze.

Working with Corporate Event Planning Companies (plananevent.org)
What Sets Top Event Planning Companies Apart from the Rest (plananevent.org)
Use a Template to Help with Event Planning Ideas (plananevent.org)
Event Planning Checklist – Organization is Key (plananevent.org)
Event Planning Firms – What to Look for When Hiring (plananevent.org)
3 Event Planning Websites Worth Visiting (plananevent.org)
What is a CVB? (plananevent.org)

Filed Under: Planning An Event Tagged With: CVB, event planning, event planning resources, event planning tips, venues

Event Planning NYC Edition – Where to Look for Companies to Assist You

December 19, 2011 By Randy Markus Comments

The Big Apple. If you’ve never been there it really should be on your bucket list. New York City is indeed a city that never sleeps. Event planning NYC requires organizational skills beyond belief. You can literally feel the energy as you stand on a busy street corner in Manhattan and watch all the hustle and bustle that’s going on around you. If you’re taking a group to NYC then it’s strongly recommended that you hire a local professional.

NYCgo.com Is the Best Place to Look for Event Planning Companies in NYC

My family sometimes laughs at me when I travel to cities that I’ve never visited before. The reason they laugh is because I love to take those hop on hop off tours that you see in most major cities. I do this because it gives me a great overview of the city in as little as a couple of hours. These tours provide me with enough information so that I can decide where I’d like to go to dinner, what attractions I want to go back and spend more time at, as well as provide me a good overview and history of each city.

For event planners, just executing the meeting itself is enough of a task to keep you busy. But throw in a new city each time the meeting is held and you’re adding a lot to an event planner’s plate. And that’s where Convention And Visitors Bureaus (CVB’s) come into play. A CVB is a great resource for meeting and event planners. NYCgo.com is New York’s official website for both individual and group travelers. Typically a CVB is made up of members from the community. Of course these members pay to be part of the CVB and, in turn, get promoted by the CVB to potential meeting and event planners. There are a great resource for searching and booking hotels, attractions and other suppliers related to the event industry. I always tell any clients to look at the CVB site first before making any decisions about which suppliers to use in a particular city.