Ep 12: 25 Event Marketing Trends for 2025

Tim Fisher: 00:00

Happy New Year, everyone. It's 2025. It is. And things are already changing

Meg Salmon: 00:04

Yeah.

Tim Fisher: 00:04

Like, fast. Yeah. Like, really fast in the world of events. Right. You know, imagine you're planning your next big event.

Tim Fisher: 00:12

Maybe it's a concert or a festival or museum. Exhibit a play. Yeah. You know, whatever gets your audience excited Yeah. What's gonna make it stand out in this new year?

Tim Fisher: 00:21

Yeah. How are you gonna wow your audience?

Meg Salmon: 00:23

Yeah. That's the question, isn't it?

Tim Fisher: 00:25

It is. And that's what we're diving into today.

Meg Salmon: 00:27

Okay. Cool.

Tim Fisher: 00:28

25 event marketing trends.

Meg Salmon: 00:31

Wow. We think

Tim Fisher: 00:31

are gonna be huge this year.

Meg Salmon: 00:33

25. That's that's a lot.

Tim Fisher: 00:34

It is. But we're gonna break it down to make it super easy to digest.

Meg Salmon: 00:37

Okay.

Tim Fisher: 00:38

So don't worry. Good. And to help you navigate all of this Yeah. We're using the Evenicle framework.

Meg Salmon: 00:43

Okay.

Tim Fisher: 00:44

They're 8 tentacles, so to speak.

Meg Salmon: 00:46

I like that.

Tim Fisher: 00:47

We'll cover audience growth and engagement ticket sales and revenue event promotion sponsorships and partnerships. In venue experience content and storytelling data and insights and finally upscaling for you and your team.

Meg Salmon: 00:59

Okay. So we're covering, like, the whole gamut here.

Tim Fisher: 01:01

We are we're gonna unpack everything from AI powered tools to sensory experiences that'll leave your attendees buzzing. Alright.

Meg Salmon: 01:09

Let's do it.

Tim Fisher: 01:10

Get ready, Event Pros. The future is here. Let's start with the heart of it all.

Meg Salmon: 01:22

Okay.

Tim Fisher: 01:23

Audience growth and engagement. What really struck me is how AI is becoming essential. Mhmm. Not just a trendy add on for personalizing each attendee's experience.

Meg Salmon: 01:36

Yeah. It's not just a buzzword anymore. It's, like, actually useful now.

Tim Fisher: 01:40

Exactly.

Meg Salmon: 01:40

And you need it. You do. If you wanna stay ahead of the game.

Tim Fisher: 01:43

Generic marketing just doesn't cut it anymore. Nope. Tools like Braze and Segment.

Meg Salmon: 01:47

Yeah. Those are great.

Tim Fisher: 01:48

But you gather data on your attendees and use it to tailor everything.

Meg Salmon: 01:51

It's amazing what they can do.

Tim Fisher: 01:53

Imagine sending someone an email with session recommendations based on what they loved at your last event.

Meg Salmon: 01:59

That's so smart. Like, why haven't we been doing that all along?

Tim Fisher: 02:02

I know. Right? Or suggesting a pre show dinner special based on their online browsing. Mhmm. Oh, I like that.

Tim Fisher: 02:08

It's about making them feel like a VIP.

Meg Salmon: 02:11

It's all about personalization these days. Right? Yes. Making people feel

Tim Fisher: 02:15

seen. And you know what else is cool? Building microcommunities around your events.

Meg Salmon: 02:20

Oh, yeah. Tell me

Tim Fisher: 02:21

about that. Platforms like Discord and Circle let you create these niche spaces for your attendees to connect, share their excitement, and build that sense of belonging even before the event starts.

Meg Salmon: 02:33

So it's like building hype before the event even happens.

Tim Fisher: 02:36

Yeah. But you're not just selling tickets.

Meg Salmon: 02:37

Right.

Tim Fisher: 02:38

You're creating a community.

Meg Salmon: 02:39

It's like a movement.

Tim Fisher: 02:40

It's like a fan club that turns into a street team.

Meg Salmon: 02:43

I love that.

Tim Fisher: 02:44

And speaking of getting people talking, we have to prioritize inclusivity. Yes. Ab Not just because it's the right thing to do, but because it makes good business sense.

Meg Salmon: 02:54

100%.

Tim Fisher: 02:55

It absolutely does. Yeah. Think about using tools like Esri's Tapestry Segmentation and Clarita's Prism to really understand the demographics of your audience. Both. Then you can tailor your messaging and imagery to make sure everyone feels seen and welcomed.

Meg Salmon: 03:10

Yeah. Inclusivity is not just a checkbox anymore.

Tim Fisher: 03:12

No. It's, like, essential.

Meg Salmon: 03:14

It has to be baked into everything you do.

Tim Fisher: 03:16

It's about making your events a space where everyone feels they belong.

Meg Salmon: 03:20

I love that.

Tim Fisher: 03:21

And once you've got them in the door, you need to keep them engaged. Right?

Meg Salmon: 03:24

For sure.

Tim Fisher: 03:25

Absolutely. That's where real time interaction comes in. Yep. Think about using tools like Slido and Menimeter for live q and a's polls, quizzes, anything that gets people participating, not just passively watching.

Meg Salmon: 03:38

So, like, interactive stuff.

Tim Fisher: 03:39

Yes.

Meg Salmon: 03:40

Yeah.

Tim Fisher: 03:40

Make it a two way conversation.

Meg Salmon: 03:42

Treat them on their toes.

Tim Fisher: 03:43

I love that it makes the event more dynamic, whether it's in person, virtual, or hybrid.

Meg Salmon: 03:48

So true.

Tim Fisher: 03:48

Okay. So we've got the audience engaged.

Meg Salmon: 03:50

Alright. Check.

Tim Fisher: 03:51

Now let's talk about those ticket sales. Gotta keep the lights on.

Meg Salmon: 03:54

Gotta get that revenue.

Tim Fisher: 03:55

Dynamic pricing is becoming a major player here.

Meg Salmon: 03:58

Absolutely.

Tim Fisher: 03:59

It is. And AI is driving the bus.

Meg Salmon: 04:01

AI all the way.

Tim Fisher: 04:02

Tools like Diginex and Vatic analyze tons of data in real time like Mhmm. How many tickets are left, what your competitors are charging, even things like the weather forecast or social media buzz. Wow. Then they suggest the optimal price to maximize your revenue.

Meg Salmon: 04:17

So it takes the guesswork out of it.

Tim Fisher: 04:19

It does.

Meg Salmon: 04:19

That's pretty amazing.

Tim Fisher: 04:20

So if a big star suddenly announces a guest appearance at your festival

Meg Salmon: 04:24

Okay. Yeah.

Tim Fisher: 04:25

The AI could automatically bump up the ticket prices.

Meg Salmon: 04:29

Exactly.

Tim Fisher: 04:29

It's like having a 247 pricing expert Mhmm. Tweaking things to make sure you're getting the most out of every seat.

Meg Salmon: 04:35

I mean, that's incredible.

Tim Fisher: 04:36

That's impressive. Yeah. AI is really changing the game.

Meg Salmon: 04:40

It is.

Tim Fisher: 04:41

But, you know, even with perfect price, you still need to get the word out.

Meg Salmon: 04:44

True.

Tim Fisher: 04:44

What about event promotion in 2025?

Meg Salmon: 04:48

Okay.

Tim Fisher: 04:49

One thing that caught my eye is voice search optimization.

Meg Salmon: 04:52

Oh, yeah. That's huge.

Tim Fisher: 04:54

People aren't just typing into Google anymore. Nope. They're asking Alexa or Siri Right. What's happening this weekend?

Meg Salmon: 05:00

Total.

Tim Fisher: 05:00

You have to make sure your events show up in those voice searches.

Meg Salmon: 05:03

Absolutely.

Tim Fisher: 05:03

So how do we do that?

Meg Salmon: 05:04

I'll think about how people talk.

Tim Fisher: 05:06

Okay.

Meg Salmon: 05:07

They're not using keywords. They're asking questions. Tools like Answer the Public can help you understand those questions, and then you can tailor your website content to provide those answers.

Tim Fisher: 05:16

So instead of just listing event dates Yeah. I might have a section on my website that says family friendly events this month.

Meg Salmon: 05:24

Exactly.

Tim Fisher: 05:25

It's about speaking your audience's language, literally.

Meg Salmon: 05:28

Literally. And

Tim Fisher: 05:29

while we're on the topic of AI Yeah. It's also making a splash in creative design.

Meg Salmon: 05:34

Oh, yeah. AI design tools are amazing.

Tim Fisher: 05:37

Oh, yeah. Those AI powered design tools are amazing. I've used Canva Magic Studio, and it can whip up incredible graphics and even suggest designs based on your brand style.

Meg Salmon: 05:46

That's so cool.

Tim Fisher: 05:47

And there's ad creative dot ai

Meg Salmon: 05:49

Oh, yeah. I've heard of that.

Tim Fisher: 05:51

Which uses AI to create high performing ad copy and visuals tailored to your target audience.

Meg Salmon: 05:56

So it's like having a whole design team at your fingertips.

Tim Fisher: 05:59

It is imagine not having to stress over designing every single banner or social media post.

Meg Salmon: 06:05

I mean, that would save so much time and money.

Tim Fisher: 06:07

It would.

Meg Salmon: 06:08

That's a game changer.

Tim Fisher: 06:09

It's a huge relief. Yeah. It's like having a whole design team at your fingertips.

Meg Salmon: 06:13

Yeah. For sure.

Tim Fisher: 06:14

But speaking of teamwork

Meg Salmon: 06:15

Okay.

Tim Fisher: 06:16

Micro influencer partnerships Oh. Are another trend I'm excited about.

Meg Salmon: 06:20

Yeah. Those are interesting.

Tim Fisher: 06:21

They're definitely powerful. Mhmm. These aren't your megastars with millions of followers, but they have a dedicated audience that trusts their recommendations.

Meg Salmon: 06:29

Right.

Tim Fisher: 06:30

It feels more genuine than a big celebrity endorsement.

Meg Salmon: 06:33

Yeah. It's like getting advice from a friend. It is. Right.

Tim Fisher: 06:36

Exactly. Platforms like Upluence and Aspire can help you find micro influencers who align with your event and audience.

Meg Salmon: 06:42

That's handy.

Tim Fisher: 06:44

And speaking of reaching your audience in new ways Yeah. Have you seen how people are using AR and VR for event promotion?

Meg Salmon: 06:51

Oh, yeah.

Tim Fisher: 06:52

It's incredible. Imagine letting people use a VR headset to take a 360 degree tour of your venue

Meg Salmon: 06:59

Oh, wow.

Tim Fisher: 06:59

Or virtually try out different seats before they buy a ticket

Meg Salmon: 07:03

That's a good idea.

Tim Fisher: 07:04

Or using AR for interactive ads.

Meg Salmon: 07:06

Okay.

Tim Fisher: 07:06

You scan a QR code at a bus stop Mhmm. And suddenly, a 3 d model of your vent space pops up on your phone.

Meg Salmon: 07:13

That's so cool.

Tim Fisher: 07:14

It's about breaking down the barriers between the digital and physical world.

Meg Salmon: 07:18

It's like blending them together.

Tim Fisher: 07:20

It is. Tools like 8th wall and snap AR are making this possible, and it's a game changer for event promotion.

Meg Salmon: 07:27

Yeah. It's like the future is here. I love it. Me too.

Tim Fisher: 07:30

Okay. Let's move on to sponsorships and partnerships.

Meg Salmon: 07:33

Okay.

Tim Fisher: 07:33

One thing that struck me is that sponsors are getting more discerning.

Meg Salmon: 07:37

Yeah.

Tim Fisher: 07:38

They They don't just want their logo on a banner anymore. Nope. They want partnerships that align with your values.

Meg Salmon: 07:43

Right. They wanna be associated with something meaningful.

Tim Fisher: 07:46

It's true. Yeah. We're seeing a big shift towards purpose driven sponsorships.

Meg Salmon: 07:51

Mhmm.

Tim Fisher: 07:51

Sponsors wanna be associated with events that support causes they believe in.

Meg Salmon: 07:56

Mhmm.

Tim Fisher: 07:56

Whether it's sustainability, diversity, or social impact.

Meg Salmon: 07:59

Makes sense.

Tim Fisher: 08:00

It's about finding sponsors who share your vision and values right.

Meg Salmon: 08:04

Absolutely.

Tim Fisher: 08:05

Absolutely. Tools like sponsorship.com and sponsor my event can help you find those perfect matches.

Meg Salmon: 08:10

Okay. Those are good to know.

Tim Fisher: 08:11

Turning sponsorships into genuine collaborations that benefit everyone involved.

Meg Salmon: 08:16

Oh, I like that win win for everyone.

Tim Fisher: 08:18

And when it comes to engaging attendees and sponsors

Meg Salmon: 08:21

Yeah.

Tim Fisher: 08:22

We can't forget about gamification.

Meg Salmon: 08:24

Oh, this is a good one.

Tim Fisher: 08:25

Oh, I love a good game. Using interactive elements to bring sponsorships to life is so much fun.

Meg Salmon: 08:31

It is. It's like, who doesn't love a game?

Tim Fisher: 08:33

Platforms like EventMobi let you integrate games right into your event app.

Meg Salmon: 08:38

Oh, cool.

Tim Fisher: 08:39

Think scavenger hunts, trivia challenges, virtual badge collecting Mhmm. All tied in with sponsor branding.

Meg Salmon: 08:45

So clever.

Tim Fisher: 08:46

It's a win win for everyone. Sponsors get visibility attendees, have fun

Meg Salmon: 08:50

Yeah. And

Tim Fisher: 08:51

you get a more engaged audience.

Meg Salmon: 08:52

Exactly.

Tim Fisher: 08:53

And with the rise of virtual and hybrid events

Meg Salmon: 08:56

Mhmm.

Tim Fisher: 08:56

We're also seeing more virtual co branding opportunities.

Meg Salmon: 08:59

Oh, interesting. Tell me more.

Tim Fisher: 09:01

Think about branded virtual lounges, sponsor hosted breakout sessions, even interactive 3 d experiences that attendees can explore online.

Meg Salmon: 09:10

Okay. So, like, taking the sponsorship online as well.

Tim Fisher: 09:13

Exactly. Platforms like Spatial and RingCentral events are leading the way in this area. It's opening up a whole new world of possibilities for sponsors to connect with their target audience in a meaningful way.

Meg Salmon: 09:23

That's awesome.

Tim Fisher: 09:25

Okay. Let's shift our focus to the in venue experience. Alright. One of the trends I'm most excited about is the move towards multisensory immersion.

Meg Salmon: 09:35

Oh, yeah.

Tim Fisher: 09:36

It's about creating an experience that engages all the senses, not just sight and sound.

Meg Salmon: 09:41

Right.

Tim Fisher: 09:42

Imagine walking into an event and being greeted by a signature scent that evokes the theme or having interactive installations that let attendees touch and feel different textures.

Meg Salmon: 09:52

Oh, I love that. I love this smell idea. So I go to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, and it immediately smells like butterbeer, or the atrium at a baseball stadium smells like freshly cut grass.

Tim Fisher: 10:05

That's exactly right. It's about transforming events into multisensory journeys that leave a lasting impression.

Meg Salmon: 10:11

Wow.

Tim Fisher: 10:11

And in today's world where convenience and safety are top of mind, contactless entry, and payment systems are becoming essential.

Meg Salmon: 10:19

Yeah. For sure.

Tim Fisher: 10:20

They really are. No one wants to wait in long lines or fumble with cash.

Meg Salmon: 10:23

No, bud.

Tim Fisher: 10:24

Technologies like Clear's facial recognition and platforms like Square are making everything seamless and touch free.

Meg Salmon: 10:29

That's so convenient.

Tim Fisher: 10:31

It's about streamlining the entire attendee experience for the moment they arrive to the moment they leave.

Meg Salmon: 10:36

So smooth.

Tim Fisher: 10:37

And speaking of creating a seamless experience

Meg Salmon: 10:40

Yeah.

Tim Fisher: 10:41

Personalized fan zones are another trend that's gaining traction.

Meg Salmon: 10:44

Oh, personalized fan zones. What are those?

Tim Fisher: 10:47

Imagine having different zones within an event that are curated based on attendees' preferences. Oh. Whether it's music, tasty food preferences, or favorite activities.

Meg Salmon: 10:56

Oh, that's so cool.

Tim Fisher: 10:57

Tools like Finesco are making this possible.

Meg Salmon: 11:00

So, like, you could have a zone for foodies, a zone for music lovers.

Tim Fisher: 11:03

Exactly.

Meg Salmon: 11:04

A zone for, like, the tech geeks.

Tim Fisher: 11:06

So attendees could use an app to indicate their interests Mhmm. And then get recommendations for zones of activities they'd love.

Meg Salmon: 11:13

Oh, wow.

Tim Fisher: 11:14

It's like having a custom designed event itinerary.

Meg Salmon: 11:17

That's amazing.

Tim Fisher: 11:17

And it's not just about personalization. It's also about accessibility.

Meg Salmon: 11:20

Oh, right. Of course. Course.

Tim Fisher: 11:22

We're seeing a growing emphasis on creating sensory friendly spaces at events.

Meg Salmon: 11:26

Yeah. That's so important.

Tim Fisher: 11:28

That's so important. Making sure that everyone feels welcome and comfortable regardless of their sensory sensitivities should be a priority for every event organizer.

Meg Salmon: 11:38

Absolutely.

Tim Fisher: 11:39

Organizations like Culture City provide resources and training to help create these inclusive spaces.

Meg Salmon: 11:45

Okay.

Tim Fisher: 11:45

They offer sensory bags with noise cancelling headphones, weighted lap pads, and they train staff on how to best support attendees with sensory needs.

Meg Salmon: 11:53

Oh, that's fantastic.

Tim Fisher: 11:54

It's about making sure everyone can fully enjoy the event experience.

Meg Salmon: 11:58

Yeah. Creating a truly welcoming environment for everybody.

Tim Fisher: 12:01

Okay. Let's move on to content and storytelling.

Meg Salmon: 12:03

Alright.

Tim Fisher: 12:04

One trend that's impossible to ignore is the dominance of short form video.

Meg Salmon: 12:08

Oh, yeah. TikTok is everywhere.

Tim Fisher: 12:11

Platforms like TikTok and Instagram reels have completely changed the way we consume content.

Meg Salmon: 12:15

Yeah. Our attention spans are, like

Tim Fisher: 12:17

So short. Yeah. And people are drawn to quick engaging videos that tell a story in seconds.

Meg Salmon: 12:23

It's all about being snappy and eye catching.

Tim Fisher: 12:25

It's about capturing those behind the scenes glimpses, the highlights, the quick bursts of information that leave people wanting more.

Meg Salmon: 12:33

I like that.

Tim Fisher: 12:33

Tools like TikTok's built in editing features and platforms like Animoto make it easy to create these eye catching videos even if you're not a video expert.

Meg Salmon: 12:42

Oh, that's good to know.

Tim Fisher: 12:44

And since they're so shareable, short form videos can really amplify your events reach and get people

Meg Salmon: 12:50

talking. Yeah. It's like free marketing.

Tim Fisher: 12:52

And speaking of getting people talking

Meg Salmon: 12:54

Mhmm.

Tim Fisher: 12:55

We can't forget about user generated content.

Meg Salmon: 12:57

Oh, yes. User generated content is gold. I know we're diving deeper into this topic in a future podcast episode. UGC isn't really that big in the event space, but you and I both think it's something event marketers need to start testing.

Tim Fisher: 13:11

Absolutely. Encourage your attendees to share their experiences on social media using your event hashtag.

Meg Salmon: 13:17

Right.

Tim Fisher: 13:18

It's like having an army of brand ambassadors spreading the word about how much fun they're having.

Meg Salmon: 13:22

Exactly. And it's authentic.

Tim Fisher: 13:24

It is.

Meg Salmon: 13:24

People trust other people.

Tim Fisher: 13:26

Tools like Tagbox and NoSto can help you collect and display that user generated content, creating a buzz around your event and showcasing the authentic voices of your attendees.

Meg Salmon: 13:37

Oh, cool.

Tim Fisher: 13:37

You can even display it on screens at the event itself.

Meg Salmon: 13:40

I love that idea.

Tim Fisher: 13:41

I love that idea. It makes the event more interactive and encourages even more people to share their experiences.

Meg Salmon: 13:47

Yeah. It's like a feedback loop of excitement.

Tim Fisher: 13:49

Now before we move on, I wanted to touch on another content trend that's really taking off pre event podcast

Meg Salmon: 13:55

series. I mean, we love podcasts here at Eventicle. Right?

Tim Fisher: 13:58

Oh, podcasts are such a great way to build anticipation and connect with your audience before the event even begins.

Meg Salmon: 14:06

Yeah. I love listening to podcasts.

Tim Fisher: 14:07

You can interview speakers, performers, organizers

Meg Salmon: 14:11

Mhmm.

Tim Fisher: 14:12

Or even just have casual conversations about the themes of your event.

Meg Salmon: 14:15

It's like giving people a sneak peek.

Tim Fisher: 14:16

It is. Platforms like Spotify for creators and Transistor dot f m Yeah. Make it super easy to create and share your podcast.

Meg Salmon: 14:24

That's good to know because I feel like podcasting can seem intimidating.

Tim Fisher: 14:28

It can be.

Meg Salmon: 14:28

But it doesn't have to be. It doesn't Not with those tools.

Tim Fisher: 14:31

It's like giving your audience a backstage pass to the event.

Meg Salmon: 14:34

I love that analogy.

Tim Fisher: 14:35

And once the event is over, the content creation doesn't stop there.

Meg Salmon: 14:38

Nope. The party keeps going.

Tim Fisher: 14:40

AI can actually help you create amazing post event content.

Meg Salmon: 14:44

Oh, really? How so?

Tim Fisher: 14:45

That's right. We can use AI powered tools like Pictory and Animoto to turn raw event footage and photos into polished highlight videos and recaps.

Meg Salmon: 14:54

Oh, wow. So you don't need to be, like, a professional video editor.

Tim Fisher: 14:58

Oh, it's so easy.

Meg Salmon: 14:59

That's amazing.

Tim Fisher: 14:59

It's a fantastic way to keep the excitement going, thank your attendees, and even attract future attendees by showcasing the best moments of your event.

Meg Salmon: 15:08

It's like reliving the magic.

Tim Fisher: 15:09

Okay. So we've covered content creation.

Meg Salmon: 15:11

Right.

Tim Fisher: 15:12

Now let's talk about data and insights. Okay. Because in today's world, data is king.

Meg Salmon: 15:17

He does every

Tim Fisher: 15:18

We have more data at our fingertips than ever before.

Meg Salmon: 15:21

Right.

Tim Fisher: 15:21

But the key is knowing how to use it effectively.

Meg Salmon: 15:25

Yeah.

Tim Fisher: 15:25

To improve our events and our marketing.

Meg Salmon: 15:29

That's the tricky part.

Tim Fisher: 15:30

And there's one trend that's really important is real time marketing adjustments.

Meg Salmon: 15:34

Okay.

Tim Fisher: 15:34

We need to be able to track campaign performance, ticket sales Mhmm. And social media buzz in real time

Meg Salmon: 15:40

Yeah.

Tim Fisher: 15:41

And then make changes on the fly to optimize our efforts.

Meg Salmon: 15:44

So, like, being really responsive.

Tim Fisher: 15:46

Exactly. We need to be agile and responsive.

Meg Salmon: 15:48

Agile. That's the word.

Tim Fisher: 15:49

What kind of tools can help us do that?

Meg Salmon: 15:50

Well, there are platforms like AdStage and AdRoll that allow us to monitor key metrics and make those crucial adjustments to our campaigns, ensuring that we're getting the most out of every dollar we spend.

Tim Fisher: 16:02

So we're not just throwing money into the void.

Meg Salmon: 16:04

Right. We're being strategic.

Tim Fisher: 16:05

It's like having a finger on the pulse of our marketing efforts. Mhmm. Constantly tweaking and refining to make sure we're on track.

Meg Salmon: 16:13

Love it.

Tim Fisher: 16:14

And, of course, we can't forget about sentiment analysis.

Meg Salmon: 16:16

Oh, yes. Sentiment analysis is so important.

Tim Fisher: 16:19

It's not just about knowing how many people are talking about your event.

Meg Salmon: 16:23

Right?

Tim Fisher: 16:23

It's about understanding how they feel about it.

Meg Salmon: 16:25

Exactly what are people saying. Are they happy? Are they excited?

Tim Fisher: 16:29

AI can help with that.

Meg Salmon: 16:30

Absolutely. Absolutely.

Tim Fisher: 16:32

Tools like Brandwatch and Talkwalker can analyze social media conversations and other forms of feedback to gauge audience sentiment.

Meg Salmon: 16:40

So you can get a sense of the overall vibe.

Tim Fisher: 16:42

This information is so valuable for understanding what's resonating with your audience, what areas you might need to improve, and how you can create even more positive experiences in the future. Yeah.

Meg Salmon: 16:52

It's like getting direct feedback from your audience.

Tim Fisher: 16:55

Now to get a truly comprehensive view of your audience in their journey, you need to embrace cross channel data integration.

Meg Salmon: 17:03

Okay. Cross channel data integration. That sounds kinda complicated.

Tim Fisher: 17:07

It can sound complicated, but it's actually pretty simple.

Meg Salmon: 17:09

Okay. Good.

Tim Fisher: 17:09

It's about bringing together data from all of your marketing channels, email, social media, your website Mhmm. Your ticketing system

Meg Salmon: 17:17

Yeah. Everything. Everything. Okay.

Tim Fisher: 17:19

So we can see the big picture of how people are interacting with our brand. I see. Exactly. Platforms like HubSpot and Segment are designed to do just that. Cool.

Tim Fisher: 17:29

They help us create unified customer profiles and understand how people are engaging with us across all touch points.

Meg Salmon: 17:35

That's so powerful.

Tim Fisher: 17:36

It is.

Meg Salmon: 17:37

To have all that information in one place.

Tim Fisher: 17:39

This holistic view is essential for creating truly personalized experiences and making data driven decisions.

Meg Salmon: 17:46

Yeah. Because you can really see what's working and what's not.

Tim Fisher: 17:48

And speaking of data driven decisions Mhmm. Predictive analytics is playing an increasingly important role in revenue forecasting for events.

Meg Salmon: 17:56

Oh, tell me about that.

Tim Fisher: 17:57

Absolutely. By analyzing historical data ticket sales trends

Meg Salmon: 18:01

Okay.

Tim Fisher: 18:02

And other factors, tools like Tableau and Alteryx can help us predict future revenue streams with remarkable accuracy.

Meg Salmon: 18:09

Wow. That's like looking into a crystal ball.

Tim Fisher: 18:11

It kind of is.

Meg Salmon: 18:12

That was like data.

Tim Fisher: 18:13

This information is so valuable for setting budgets, making informed pricing decisions

Meg Salmon: 18:18

Right.

Tim Fisher: 18:19

And ensuring the financial success of your events.

Meg Salmon: 18:21

Yeah. So you can plan ahead with more confidence.

Tim Fisher: 18:24

K. We've covered a lot of ground.

Meg Salmon: 18:26

We have.

Tim Fisher: 18:27

But we've got one final tentacle to explore, upskilling.

Meg Salmon: 18:30

Okay. Upskilling. Let's do it.

Tim Fisher: 18:32

It's so important to stay ahead of the curve in this industry.

Meg Salmon: 18:35

Absolutely. The industry is always changing.

Tim Fisher: 18:36

What are some ways we can upscale ourselves and our teams?

Meg Salmon: 18:39

Well, one trend that's transforming the way we work is the rise of AI powered assistance for administrative tasks.

Tim Fisher: 18:46

You mean, like, having a virtual assistant who can handle things like scheduling appointments, generating reports, and even drafting emails?

Meg Salmon: 18:54

Exactly.

Tim Fisher: 18:55

Oh my gosh. That would be amazing.

Meg Salmon: 18:56

It is. It's a game changer.

Tim Fisher: 18:58

Tools like Make and Notion AI are becoming indispensable for busy event teams.

Meg Salmon: 19:02

Yeah. They free up so much time.

Tim Fisher: 19:05

They free up those tedious time consuming tasks, freeing up our mental bandwidth for more strategic work.

Meg Salmon: 19:10

Yeah. So you can focus on the big picture stuff.

Tim Fisher: 19:12

It's about working smarter, not harder.

Meg Salmon: 19:15

Couldn't agree more.

Tim Fisher: 19:16

Exactly. It's about leveraging the power of technology to streamline our operations and boost our efficiency.

Meg Salmon: 19:23

And who doesn't wanna be more efficient?

Tim Fisher: 19:24

Exactly. Right.

Meg Salmon: 19:26

It's a win win.

Tim Fisher: 19:27

Wow. We've covered a lot of ground today.

Meg Salmon: 19:28

We have.

Tim Fisher: 19:29

From AI powered personalization to multisensory experiences, the world of event marketing is evolving at an incredible pace.

Meg Salmon: 19:38

It's mind blowing. It is. It's like every day there's something new.

Tim Fisher: 19:41

It's an exciting time to be in this industry It is. But it can also feel a bit overwhelming.

Meg Salmon: 19:47

Yeah. I can see that.

Tim Fisher: 19:48

Where do we even begin to implement all of these incredible trends?

Meg Salmon: 19:51

Right. Like, it's a lot to take in.

Tim Fisher: 19:53

I think the key is to start small.

Meg Salmon: 19:55

Okay.

Tim Fisher: 19:56

Experiment and see what works best for your specific events and your target audience.

Meg Salmon: 20:00

Yeah. Like dip your toes in the water.

Tim Fisher: 20:02

There's no one size fits all approach.

Meg Salmon: 20:03

True. You gotta find what works for you.

Tim Fisher: 20:06

It's about embracing the spirit of innovation and being willing to try new things.

Meg Salmon: 20:09

And not being afraid to fail.

Tim Fisher: 20:11

Exactly. You learn from your mistakes.

Meg Salmon: 20:13

That's how you grow.

Tim Fisher: 20:14

But with all this talk of technology and trends, it's easy to lose sight of the human element at the heart of what we do.

Meg Salmon: 20:21

Oh, that's so true.

Tim Fisher: 20:23

You're absolutely right. At the end of the day, it's all about creating experiences that resonate with people Mhmm. That make them feel something and that leave a lasting impression.

Meg Salmon: 20:34

Like, create memories Yes. That people will cherish.

Tim Fisher: 20:38

Well said. I think we've given our listeners a lot to think about today.

Meg Salmon: 20:41

Yeah. I think so too.

Tim Fisher: 20:42

What are some final thoughts you wanna leave them with?

Meg Salmon: 20:45

Let me think for a second. You know, what constantly surprises me is how rapid the pace of change is for event marketing or really just marketing in general, and how nimble yet steadfast event marketing professionals need to be. The role of the event marketer has evolved significantly and will continue to change as both technology and consumer demand move at this rapid pace. It's not just about logistics and promotion anymore. It's about being a storyteller, a data analyst, a community builder, and a tech enthusiast all rolled into 1.

Tim Fisher: 21:17

Exactly. It's a multifaceted role that requires a wide range of skills and a constant willingness to learn and adapt.

Meg Salmon: 21:24

It's like being a superhero of the event world.

Tim Fisher: 21:26

Which can feel overwhelming at times. Right? There's so much to keep up with.

Meg Salmon: 21:29

Absolutely. But I think it's also incredibly exciting.

Tim Fisher: 21:31

Yeah.

Meg Salmon: 21:32

We're at the forefront of an industry that's constantly evolving, and we have the opportunity to shape the future of events.

Tim Fisher: 21:37

And that brings me to a question for you. With all these trends and technologies swirling around us, what are you personally most excited about? Mhmm. What's sparking your imagination?

Meg Salmon: 21:48

That's a great question. You know, I'm really intrigued by the potential of AI to create even more personalized and immersive event experiences.

Tim Fisher: 21:58

Me too. I can imagine a world where events are tailored to each attendee's unique interests and preferences, creating a sense of wonder and delight that's truly unforgettable.

Meg Salmon: 22:09

It's a beautiful vision, isn't it? And it's not as far fetched as it might seem. We already have the technology to make it happen. It's just a matter of embracing those possibilities and putting them into action.

Tim Fisher: 22:19

I agree. And that brings me to another thought. With all this talk of technology and innovation, I think it's important to remember that at the heart of every successful event is a human connection.

Meg Salmon: 22:33

You're absolutely right. Technology can enhance those connections, but it can never replace them.

Tim Fisher: 22:38

It's about finding that sweet spot, that balance between the digital and the human, the data driven, and the heartfelt.

Meg Salmon: 22:48

And I think that's where the magic happens. When we use technology to amplify the human experience, that's when events truly become transformative.

Tim Fisher: 22:55

Beautifully said. And I think that's a perfect note to end on. Ah. But before we wrap up, what's one final piece of advice you wanna leave our listeners with?

Meg Salmon: 23:02

That's a good question.

Tim Fisher: 23:03

It's a big one. It is. So much to think about.

Meg Salmon: 23:06

I know. Right? Like, where do we even start with all these trends?

Tim Fisher: 23:09

I think my biggest takeaway from all of this

Meg Salmon: 23:11

Yeah.

Tim Fisher: 23:12

Is that the events industry is more dynamic and exciting than ever before.

Meg Salmon: 23:16

Oh, absolutely.

Tim Fisher: 23:16

There's so much potential for creativity and innovation.

Meg Salmon: 23:19

It's like a blank canvas.

Tim Fisher: 23:21

It is. Yeah. And, you know, it's not just about the technology itself. It's about how we use it

Meg Salmon: 23:25

Right.

Tim Fisher: 23:26

To create experiences that resonate with people on a deeper level.

Meg Salmon: 23:30

Yeah. Like using tech to make things more human.

Tim Fisher: 23:33

Exactly.

Meg Salmon: 23:34

Get less.

Tim Fisher: 23:35

That's what really struck me when we were talking about purpose driven sponsorships.

Meg Salmon: 23:38

Oh, yeah.

Tim Fisher: 23:39

It's not just about transactions anymore. Right. It's about finding partners who share your values

Meg Salmon: 23:45

Right.

Tim Fisher: 23:45

And who are genuinely invested in making a positive impact.

Meg Salmon: 23:49

Yeah. Like, finding those real connections.

Tim Fisher: 23:51

And it's also about using technology in a way that enhances the human experience, not replaces it.

Meg Salmon: 23:57

Exactly. Like you said, we can use AI to personalize experiences, but, ultimately, it's the human connections that make events truly memorable.

Tim Fisher: 24:06

You know, I think that's a really important message for event marketers to keep in mind

Meg Salmon: 24:11

Mhmm.

Tim Fisher: 24:11

As we navigate this rapidly changing landscape.

Meg Salmon: 24:14

Yeah. It's easy to get caught up in all the shiny new things.

Tim Fisher: 24:17

It is it's easy to get caught up in the latest trends and gadgets, but we can't forget the heart of what we do. Right. Bringing people together and creating experiences that matter.

Meg Salmon: 24:27

It's all about those shared experiences.

Tim Fisher: 24:29

And the feelings.

Meg Salmon: 24:30

Yes. The emotions.

Tim Fisher: 24:31

Well said. And, you know, it's funny because we've been talking about all these futuristic trends. Yeah. I've also been thinking about the timeless principles of good event marketing.

Meg Salmon: 24:40

Oh, I like that. Tell me more.

Tim Fisher: 24:42

Oh, you know, things like knowing your audience, crafting a compelling narrative, and creating a sense of community?

Meg Salmon: 24:48

Yeah. Those are the fundamentals.

Tim Fisher: 24:49

They are these principles have always been important, and they'll continue to be important Mhmm. No matter how much technology evolves.

Meg Salmon: 24:56

It's like the foundation.

Tim Fisher: 24:57

It is you can build all sorts of fancy stuff on top.

Meg Salmon: 25:00

Right.

Tim Fisher: 25:01

But without a strong foundation, it's not gonna last.

Meg Salmon: 25:03

So true.

Tim Fisher: 25:04

It's about finding that balance between the cutting edge and the classic, the innovative, and the timeless.

Meg Salmon: 25:10

It's like a dance.

Tim Fisher: 25:12

It is. Yeah. And I think that's what makes this industry so exciting. It's a constantly evolving blend of art and science, creativity and data technology and human connection.

Meg Salmon: 25:21

We get to play with all the toys.

Tim Fisher: 25:23

We do. So as we wrap up our conversation today, what's one final piece of advice you wanna leave our listeners with? Something to inspire them as they head into this new year of event planning.

Meg Salmon: 25:33

I would say embrace the change. Don't be afraid to experiment, to try new things, to push the boundaries of what's possible, but always remember to ground your efforts in a deep understanding of your audience and a passion for creating experiences that truly connect with people.

Tim Fisher: 25:48

Beautifully said, and I think that's the perfect note to end on. To all our fellow event professionals out there, cheers to a year of innovation, connection, and unforgettable experiences.