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This episode, we had the opportunity to talk to Michael Sabani of Swoogo Virtual regarding the status of events and how companies nowadays are adjusting to virtual/hybrid events.

With over 10 years of experience in event tech and product marketing, he shares his thoughts on the integration of virtual events and discusses how companies are currently adapting to these changes.

In this episode, we discussed:

• The need for virtual events ⁠
• Why innovation in event tech is important ⁠
• Why hybrid events are the future⁠

Listen to the full episode here:

About Michael Sabani

A former Disney Cast Member, Michael has a passion for creating amazing customer experiences from the first moment they interact with a product to the last. With almost a decade developing, marketing, and supporting both virtual meeting and event software under his belt, Michael has taken on the role of Director of Swoogo Virtual and is focused on delivering a personalized, exceptional experience to prospects, customers, and anyone who encounters the Swoogo brand. From developing and managing his own 501(c)(3) nonprofit to editing his own Star Wars prequel cut, Michael is never afraid to roll up his sleeves to create something awesome— an attitude he applies daily in the event tech space.

About Swoogo

Hearty technology, lightweight package. Swoogo combines serious event software with a platform designed for regular humans and a price structure built for modern events. What’s not to love? They specialize in: Event Registration ▪ Event Websites ▪ Event Software ▪ Event Apps ▪ Event Marketing ▪ Event Planning ▪ Event Management

Vendors are a part of the DNA of events. 

Can you imagine a conference without a videographer?

A brunch without a caterer? 

A company retreat without tables and chairs?

Just because we can’t gather in large groups right now doesn’t mean that vendors should be forgotten when organizing groups online.

There are many advantages to advertising during virtual events. Here are some of them:

1. Continue to monetize in times of economic despair.
   
   Let’s face it – we are living in an uncertain and challenging financial climate. Thus, staying active in your industry is imperative, not only for your current monetary situation but also for your future.
   
   When you advertise during virtual events you are able to bring in the same income (or near the same) that you were getting before. Technology has enabled many workers to stay relevant during this quarantine and vendors should be included in that category. Take advantage of the internet and get your money!
   
   
2. Reach a potentially larger audience
   
   Have you been watching any of the “versus” music challenges on Instagram? It’s when two popular artists pit their songs against each other – in a light-hearted, fun manner – to judge whose music is better.
   
   Whether you’ve caught one or not, the “attendees” reach in the hundreds of thousands, far more than any concert hall could hold in person. Imagine if your brand was plugged during one of these events? Can you say “ka-ching”?
   
   While it is more likely to get marketing exposure during a virtual business event, digital gatherings simply reach a wider audience, especially during these times, and your brand could benefit from the larger “crowd”. Don’t underestimate the power of what virtual events can do for your company.
   
   
3. Perfect a new strategy to implement when things go back to normal
   
   At some point, things will get back to the way they were before Covid-19. Face masks will come off and “non-essential” businesses will re-open. But this doesn’t mean that virtual events will go away. In fact, they may even become more popular due to the fear of Corona returning and the comfortability we have acclimated to. When this quarantine ends, part of our new normal will include digital events.
   
   Why not get a jump on the market and figure out now how to master the digital space?  With the way things are going now, this is a tool for your toolbox that will continue to pay off long into the future.
   
   An entrepreneur once said that if you want to be rich then find out which direction the world is going and get there first. You already know digital events are the new wave. Learn to ride it now so that you are ahead of the pack when others figure it out, too.

We sincerely hope you are able to take advantage of this tremendous opportunity. Which digital events will you pitch your services to this month?

On the next episode of The Checklist, we spoke with Curt Johnson of Four Moon Productions, about “How To Pivot As A Vendor.” He broke down his experience with his company pivoting early in the game and how it has helped them stay afloat.

In this episode, we discussed:

• The future of events and how it will impact vendors
• The ups and downs of pivoting into the digital world as a vendor
• Tips to transition into virtual events

Listen to the full episode here:

About Curt Johnson

Curt Johnson is a native of Omaha, Nebraska. He relocated to Las Vegas where he began his career in events as a driver transporting production equipment. Twenty years later, after working in various positions in the A/V field, he currently serves as the National Sales Director for Four Moon Productions. Using his knowledge of all facets of the corporate production industry, he assists his clients with meeting their needs big or small. He has developed and produced many groundbreaking events touting locations around the globe with thousands of attendees, managing everything from break out rooms to general sessions and each small detail in between. Bringing his talents to the tech space, Curt has had the pleasure of partnering with Four Moon’s host of clients among them Zoom, Blavity, Great Place to Work, and Afrotech to name a few. In his spare time Curt enjoys dancing, quality time with family, and anything that involves great food. 

About Four Moon Productions

Four Moon Productions is a full-service audio/visual production company. From set design and content creation to streaming and everything in between, Four Moon is a one-stop solution for live corporate events. Four Moon is a completely mobile production company, servicing all corners of the globe. Learn more at: https://www.fourmoon.com/

Dear Event Organizer,

We know you are interested in working virtually, yet some of you just don’t know how. 

So, we did some work for you and compiled a short list of virtual vendors that could add value to almost any event.

Check them out below:

1. Outsnapped – The Virtual Photo Booth
   
   Who said you couldn’t capture your memories during online events? They don’t all have to be participants passively looking at a screen for hours. Now you can memorialize the moments with an awesome photo company that services virtual events, in addition to other events.
   
   Built for virtual marketing campaigns, webinars, trainings, keynotes, and more, Outsnapped outpaces its competition by adapting to the times and taking advantage of a growing need in the events industry. Featuring everything from snap still photos, animated GIFs, boomerang looping videos, and customizable overlays, your photos are instantly sharable via email, text, and your favorite social media platform.
   
   The best part is that you don’t need to download an app on your phone to use it! It can work directly from your mobile device or computer.
   
   
   
2. Fanomena Events – For Digital Swagbags
   
   Gone are the days of stuffing generic pens, stress balls, pen pads into plastic bags for hours. Most event attendees do not care for them past the event itself and they can take up so much time to prepare. Go digital instead!
   
   Fanomena allows you to include important information about the event, upload PDFs and include rich media, such as videos and integration with Google maps. You can also create coupons and discount vouchers to be used at different times.
   
   The best part is that you can send your marketing material privately to registered attendees or create a public link which can be shared widely.
   
   
3. The GoGame – For Virtual Games
   
   Teambuilding is essential for team success and playing games is essential to teambuilding. When you can’t play games together in-person, try them online with The GoGame.
   
   The GoGame sits at the intersection of technology, exploration, and creativity. After 10 years in the business, they have perfected games such as hunting for clues Amazing-Race style and shooting 80s-style music videos that engage everyone from marketers and lawyers to engineers and teachers.
   
   The best part is that when you book with them you are assigned a Game Producer who helps organize your game and the best method to administer it. 

As you can see by this list, there are many ways to engage online vendors at your next event. Try out one of our suggestions or let us know of another that you recommend.

We’re so excited to introduce our new podcast, The Checklist, where we talk with event experts about the state of event culture and tips to elevate your next event.

On our first episode, we spoke with Enovia Bedford of Vettdeck, about “How To Attract Money To Your Events.” She broke down the do’s and don’ts of exploring sponsorship with the current state of events and how that applies to attracting money for your online events.

In this episode, we discussed:

• The most important things to include in your sponsorship deck
• The best time to approach a sponsor (considering the sponsorship cycle)
• How to find the right brands to work with for your event

Listen to the full episode here. Other ways to listen: Youtube | Soundcloud | iTunes

You can learn more about Enovia by following her on Instagram: @novey.b @vettdeck  

About Vettdeck

Vettdeck is a sponsorship matching platform that simplifies and streamlines the sponsorship process for event organizers and brands. Visit them online at: www.vettdeck.com

If you’re new to Vendorspace, you might not be aware of all the ways our platform could benefit your business. 

Here are some helpful tips to get you started: 

Find vendors you need for your event.

From DJs to videographers, Vendorspace is an online hub of geo-friendly vendors eager to assist your event. Our vendors are asked to set up full profiles to help you vet the right partner for you. You can view their event history, products or services, and check customer reviews. This will help you feel confident trusting our vendors because our community was built to support events. No matter your city or state, you can count on Vendorspace to provide a local directory of vendors to make your event successful.

Tip for Vendors: Fill in as much info as possible to make your profile stand out! It’s a lot easier to know whether you’re the right fit for an event if they know what you can do.

 

Find events to participate in as a vendor. 

Searching ticketing sites and social media is a thing of the past! Now you can use Vendorspace to find events that cater to you. 

Interested in a women’s event targeting a specific age range? You can find it here. 

What about a conference for startup entrepreneurs? We have that, too. 

If you’re looking for the best online events to vend at right now, you’ve come to the right place.

Vendors now have access to a database of events that lists vendor opportunities in any city, based on audience, date, type of event, and vendor fees. Next time you’re looking for an event  to sell your services or support your company’s new marketing campaign, try Vendorspace! 

Tips for Vendors: If you still have questions about the event, shoot the organizer a message! You can easily chat with an event organizer before confirming your spot in the event. 

Stay booked with Gigs-On-Demand. 

We’re living in a gig society. Work is not as stable as it used to be so sometimes business slows down. Luckily, you can stay flexible and find work in the events sector with our new feature,  Gigs-On-Demand. 

This feature allows vendors to offer services to organizers who need a vendor in a hurry. The vendor gets to keep working and the organizer is able to save their event by adding a qualified vendor. It’s a win-win. 

For vendors looking to stay booked this feature is your best friend. You could waste time on search engines and general listing sites or become the hero to organizers who are desperately seeking you out. 

Tips For Vendors: Check back often! Since the life of events can be so unpredictable, someone is always looking for a vendor to step at the last minute. That vendor could be you!

Monetize your event.

After tickets and sponsorship, vendors are the #1 way to monetize your events. With vendors, you have an opportunity to reach a specific audience in one place and brands want to take advantage of that. We created the platform for you to connect with them. 

The same way you’d set up your event to sell tickets is the same way you’d set up your event on Vendorspace to sell vendor opportunities. From booths to signage, you can now directly market your exhibitor and advertising options to your target vendors. 

Tip for Organizers: Clearly outline all the opportunities you have available at your event. There’s no limit on how many you can add. If you have a lot to offer, just submit your website link or deck and our team can help you get set up. 

As you can see, there are a lot of benefits of doing business on Vendorspace. We are the world’s top platform to connect vendors and event organizers online. Our mission is to help make great events happen. Now more than ever, we are committed to helping event professionals monetize their events and get back to business amid COVID-19.

Create a free account today to learn how we can help you create or participate in an awesome event!

Human beings are social creatures, thus the value of face-to-face interaction can never be diminished. However, in the times of Corona and the digital revolution, virtual events are becoming just as important – and business savvy – as the traditional in-person interaction. 

But with so many companies employing this strategy, how can you make your virtual event stand out?

Here are some suggestions:

Add vendors to your event 

There is nothing like a vendor to add spice to an already tasty event palate. Including a comedian or singer into your schedule can break up monotonous areas of your programming and even invite a new audience to support your event. Moreover, virtual vendors are often more cost-friendly than hiring them in-person. At the same time, you wouldn’t necessarily have to cut back on your profits if the event is marketed well with a lot of attendees. This scenario can be a major win for your company.  

Try virtual games.

We are never too old to play games. In fact, according to Science Daily, video games can help to improve mental cognition in people of all ages, from youngsters to the elderly. But what does this mean for your virtual event? Well, for one, gaming is fun! It’s a great way to keep your audience engaged and enjoying themselves. Also, gaming can be used as a marketing tool for your company, positioned as an analogy for your particular theme. Lastly, gaming is another way to add a vendor to your event (see #1 for these benefits). Some gaming companies have gone virtual and offer bingo and other games to play over Zoom and webinar platforms. Find a game that suits your audience and have fun!
 

Use Video Production

Along with the digital revolution came huge advances in media production tools. Use this to your advantage in your virtual event. When people can literally shoot videos from their phones nowadays, there is no reason why you can’t find creative video footage to add to your event. Video, like games, help to keep your audience engaged and can break up monotonous moments. In addition, video marketing is becoming the norm in business, thus customers are not only used to seeing videos but even expect it. Try hiring a video marketing specialist or editor for ideas on which videos would be best to include in your program.

Do a #Challenge

Who can forget the #IceBucketChallenge of 2015 or the #DontRushChallenge
currently sweeping the web? These internet phenomenons are entertaining, amusing, and so wide-spread that even celebrities join in and national news organizations cover them. Wouldn’t you like to get free publicity from a celebrity or national news organization? Of course you would. So start a challenge either before, during, or after your event to get people talking and sharing your message.

These are just a few ways to make your virtual events great. With new events popping up everyday, you should try some of them to see which fits your style or needs. You never know, CNN or Brad Pitt could end up promoting your event. 

Tell us some of your ideas to make virtual events great in the comments below. 

Entrepreneurs start businesses to be leaders in their industries. 

They do their research, gain competitive advantage, and position their brand to stand out from the pack. 

However, while this approach may get you started out on the right foot it doesn’t ensure your long-term success. 

To be successful long-term you need to take care of your existing customers, continually invite new ones into your orbit, and solve communication and organizational issues along the way. Oh, and it wouldn’t hurt to have some fun and enjoy your work while you’re at it!

Luckily, engaging in events can take care of all of this. 

If you haven’t thought about what events could do for your brand, here are five benefits they can offer. 

Events Gather Your Tribe For a Common Cause

Cambridge dictionary loosely defines a tribe as “a large family or other group that
someone belongs to”. For our sake, let’s think of your customers as your tribe. 

When your tribe comes out to support your event they make face-to-face
connections, not only between your team and them but also between each
other. This builds camaraderie and gets people speaking the same language, which in
turn builds trust in your brand and a stronger collective identity.  

Tribes with a strong collective identity work hard to make sure they all survive and thrive.

Events Create An Opportunity To Grow Your Tribe

Tribes grow every day. You don’t need to be born into one to join one. And it’s no secret
that larger tribes dominate society and the global marketplace. 

When you contribute to events that speaks to more than your already established
following, it creates an opportunity to gain new followers.

These newbies can test out your brand through the event experience and, if impressed,
they will surely sign up to be part of your family. 

But don’t worry, for those you are still unsure about you after spending a few hours with
your brand, you can always ask them for their email address to send them more
Information later. 

Events Leverage Your Brand’s Creativity And Resourcefulness

Events show both newcomers and existing customers what your brand is capable of.
From creative decorations to creative collaborations, they use their occurance to bring
teams together and bring out the best in one another.  

Every tribe needs to evolve and that comes through new ideas and experiences. Events
are the perfect way to either test these out or reinforce the ones you already have. 

When your team develops your brand gets a boost, making it strategically
advantageous to better compete with your competitors.  

Events Create Buzz

Everybody wants to hang with the cool kids. And in this day of social media, your event
can show everyone just how cool your brand is. From live streams to event pics, video
clips to good ole’ fashion word-of-mouth marketing, events create a buzz for you that
is simply invaluable. 

They get people talking about your brand and wanting to get in on the action. This can
not only attract new clients but also help to keep the ones you already have. Moreover,
both segments can provide you with valuable customer feedback, all at the fraction of
your traditional marketing budget. 

Events Can Generate Revenue For You

All businesses want to make money. When you have an event you are literally inviting money into your domain and asking it to stay. 

Whether you upsell, meet future business partners, or cater to returning customers, events are a great way to keep attracting money to your brand. 

Events Are Fun! (BONUS)

Businesses want to make money, maybe even better the world, but more than anything they want to enjoy the work they do.   

If you have ever organized an event you know that the planning stage can be gruesome. But there is nothing like seeing all of your hard work come to fruition. 

Smiling faces. Affirmative handshakes. Meeting new people and showing appreciation to those who have supported you from day one. 

Events are the best way to party with a purpose. 

All in all, whether you book an online or in-person event, they can provide great value to your brand. Not only can you make money, grow your tribe, and impress your existing family members, you can also get a lot of enjoyment out of them! 

What event do you plan to take part in next? Let us know in the comments below.

There is a great quote I like about the nature of charity. 

It says, “Helping one person might not change the world, but it might change the world for one person.”

In these trying times, as much as we would like to ease the struggle of so many who are hurting, there are just too many people who are in need of assistance right now. Luckily, there are some great resources out there that could mean the world to a few vendors. 

Take a look at the list below and try to get assistance where you can. 

Good luck and please share this information with others who you think might benefit from it!

FINANCIAL SUPPORT (LOANS & GRANTS)

The Meetings Industry Fund

When life takes an unexpected turn, The Meetings Industry Fund is there with an immediate lifeline. We provide confidential financial assistance to those individuals in crisis who are directly involved in the planning, execution, delivery and support of meetings.

Small Business Administration Paycheck Protection Program Loan

SBA PPP loans provide financial assistance to small businesses that have been affected by COVID-19 to help them keep employees on their payrolls. OnDeck is an approved SBA lender for PPP loans and is participating along with other banks and financial institutions.

SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans

This loan advance will provide up to $10,000 of economic relief to businesses that are currently experiencing temporary difficulties.

SBA Express Bridge Loan

Enables small businesses who currently have a business relationship with an SBA Express Lender to access up to $25,000 quickly.

Facebook Small Business Grants

Facebook is up to 30,000 small businesses with 2 – 50 employees loans worth up to $100 million dollars.

COVID – 19 Ancillary Costs

The HealthWell Foundation just announced a COVID-19 Fund that provides up to $250 in assistance with ancillary costs associated with COVID-19. Grants awarded through the fund will provide reimbursement assistance to at risk or quarantined individuals for delivered food, medication, telehealth copays and transportation costs associated with COVID-19.

SBA Debt Relief

The SBA is providing a financial reprieve to small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hello Alice’s Covid-19 Business Resource Center

Hello Alice is offering $10,000 grants being distributed immediately to small business owners impacted by coronavirus

Live Nation Covid-19 Global Relief Fund For Live Music Crews

Live Nation, the world’s live entertainment company, in collaboration with the House of Blues Music Forward Foundation, a non-profit organization,has pledged an initial $5 million dollars and will match an additional $5 million pledged by artists, fans, and employees to support live music crews who have lost work during the Coronavirus.

BUSINESS WORKSHOPS

SCORE Mentoring for Small Businesses

SCORE has served as America’s premier source of free business mentoring and education.
As a resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), SCORE provides support to entrepreneurs through mentoring, workshops and educational resources. Mentors are available to participate in remote mentoring sessions via phone, email, and video.

National Small Business Town Hall Series

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce will team up for a sixth virtual National Small Business Town Hall to help small business owners alike navigate the programs that are available to them.

The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council – Local Chapter Support For Small Businesses

The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) is the largest certifier of women-owned businesses in the U.S. and a leading advocate for women business owners and entrepreneurs. They have local chapters around the nation providing support for women entrepreneurs. 

Start Small Think Big

A great non-profit dedicated to helping entrepreneurs is on the pulse of posting information about workshops and resources needed during Covid-19.

*You can also check with your local small business development organization for more workshops.* 

MENTAL HEALTH

How To Best Manage Coronavirus Anxiety

The Anxiety and Depression Association of America has made the effort to compile a comprehensive guide to managing anxiety and/or depression during these times.

How To Best Control Your Time During Covid-19

The American Psychiatric Association offers helpful tips on how to control and manage your time during Covid-19.

World Health Organization (WHO) Mental Health Considerations

The ever-important World Health Organization has provided a 6-page document outlining factors and elements to look for while experiencing this pandemic.

Self-Screening for Mental Health

A national non-profit, Mental Health America, has created a self-screening test for individuals to take to determine where they stand on the mental health spectrum. 

PHYSICAL HEALTH AND FITNESS

Classpass

Stream thousands of live or on-demand workouts from top studios around the world. Try everything from yoga to strength training to HIIT and more.

Gymcube

GymCube membership unlocks the resources you need to lose fat, tone up, increase fitness, gain strength and lead a healthier, happier lifestyle. Burn calories at home with online exercise classes like HIIT, Abs, Combat, Dance (similar to Zumba), Indoor Spin Cycling, Yoga and Pilates.

Alo Moves

Get access to unlimited yoga, fitness, and meditation classes for only $20 a month, featuring the likes of Dylan Werner, Sri Dharma Mittra, and Melini Jesudason. 

I hope you find something useful on this list. Remember, we are all in this together. Please share any additional resources you think our community can benefit from. 

Take care.