Dharmesh Dayabhai
The landscape of event planning and group bookings is evolving rapidly. As we move into 2024, it's crucial for event planners and hospitality managers to stay ahead of emerging trends in the industry. This comprehensive guide dives into the top 10 trends shaping group bookings for events, providing valuable insights for those at the forefront of this dynamic sector.
Trend 1: Advanced Personalization
The future of group bookings is about creating unique, tailored experiences for every attendee. Leveraging data analytics and customer insights, event planners can customize everything from room allocation to personalized itineraries, ensuring that each participant’s preferences are met. This trend isn’t just about satisfying needs; it’s about exceeding expectations and creating memorable experiences.
Trend 2: Deeper Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is no longer an option but a necessity. In 2024, groups are increasingly looking for venues and events that align with their environmental and social values. This includes everything from energy-efficient venues to socially responsible practices, such as supporting local communities and businesses.
Trend 3: Sophisticated Contactless Technology
The integration of contactless technology in event planning and group booking is becoming more sophisticated. From digital check-ins to mobile event apps, these technologies enhance efficiency, improve safety, and provide a seamless experience for attendees.
Trend 4: Robust Data Security
With the rise of digital solutions, protecting client data in group bookings has never been more critical. Event planners and hospitality providers must ensure that their systems are secure and compliant with the latest data protection regulations, building trust and reliability.
Trend 5: Enhanced Storytelling in Marketing
Storytelling becomes a powerful tool in attracting diverse groups. Creating compelling, engaging narratives around group events helps connect with potential clients on an emotional level, showcasing the unique experiences and memories they can expect.
Trend 6: Comprehensive Health and Wellness Focus
The focus on health and wellness in group events is expanding beyond physical well-being to include mental and emotional health. This encompasses everything from yoga sessions and mindfulness workshops to healthy catering options, catering to the growing demand for holistic wellness.
Trend 7: Versatile Multifunctional Spaces
The demand for versatile, multifunctional spaces in venues is on the rise. These spaces need to adapt to various event types and group sizes, offering flexibility and innovation in layout and design.
Trend 8: Proactive Online Reputation Management
In the digital age, maintaining a positive online reputation is crucial. Proactively managing online reviews and feedback, and engaging with clients on social media platforms, can significantly impact the perception and success of group bookings.
Trend 9: Intelligent Use of Artificial Intelligence
AI is transforming group bookings by enhancing customer service and operational efficiency. From personalized recommendations to predictive analytics for better event planning, AI is a game-changer in the industry.
Trend 10: Dynamic Pricing Strategies for Room Blocks
In 2024, the approach to pricing room blocks will become more dynamic and data-driven. Utilizing real-time market data and predictive analytics, hotels and event planners will be able to adjust prices based on demand, event size, and market trends. This strategy will not only optimize revenue but also provide more flexible pricing options for group bookings, catering to a broader range of budgets and needs.
As we embrace these trends, the future of group bookings for events looks promising and exciting. Staying informed and adaptable to these developments is crucial for anyone in the hospitality and event planning industry.
Explore Resiada’s cutting-edge solutions for group bookings and stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of event planning.
Top 10 Group Booking Trends for 2024: Navigating the Future with Resiada
We’re excited to let you know about our updates that will enhance your experience with Resiada. These updates have been based on your feedback and the value they bring to you. Let's dive in to review the highlights of Resiada 2.2
Alternative payment options
We know how crucial it is to offer flexible payment options, and we’re excited to let you know that we’ve introduced alternative payment methods beyond credit cards. With this update, you can now collect payments through Bill to Master, Check, and ACH. You’ll also have the ability to customize payment methods for each subblock to meet your specific needs. These enhancements apply to front-end booking, bulk upload, and admin reservation processes, and all relevant reports have been updated to include the new payment methods.
Mobile booking experience update
We understand that more and more people are booking their travels through their mobile devices. To cater to this growing trend, we have made significant improvements to our mobile booking process. We have enhanced the landing page, hotel details, payment page, and reservation manager to make the mobile booking experience more pleasant and efficient. Our goal is to ensure that your customers can easily navigate and complete their bookings on their mobile devices.
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Hotel taxes & fees update
We have taken your feedback into account and made significant improvements to our Fees & Taxes module, specifically regarding event fees and taxes. You now have more control over the fee structure and can choose to collect fees using your customer merchant account. Moreover, you can collect fees during the booking process, making it a smoother and more transparent experience. These enhancements provide you with greater flexibility to customize the module according to your specific requirements.
New & updated reports
We are excited to announce some new reports and updates.
- New – The Bill to Master Summary report gives you a brief summary of the billings to master accounts.
- New – The Arrears report helps you keep track of outstanding payments and overdue accounts.
- New – The Balance Due report provides an overview of customer balances.
- New – The Payment Reconciliation report gives detailed information to help reconcile payments.
- Updated – We have also included alternative payment options in the Wait List report, Wait List Summary report, Pending Reservations report, and Rooming List Export to ensure accuracy and relevance.
Product Update: Release 2.2
We are thrilled to share some exciting updates to our platform that we know you will love. We have been working hard to incorporate the features you have requested and are excited to see how they enhance yours and your guest's booking experience.
Better support visibility
We’ve added an option where you can now highlight your support information better to your guests. Support information includes the event website, telephone, email, support image, and any other event data that can be displayed during the reservation process.
Search bar update
To enhance the guest experience further, users can now efficiently select the number of rooms and guests they want to book directly from the search bar.
Block request
For events where a block request process is in place for larger groups, you, as the administrator, can select the number of reservations until the block request option is active. This can be set up with our block request form or directed to your own.
Improved search results
To help highlight further which hotels are sold out vs. not, we are now presenting both available and unavailable hotels. Showing easy-to-read indicators of why a hotel is unavailable provides a more comprehensive view of hotel availability.
Reservation timer
To help ensure guests have adequate time to book their hotel, we have added a reservation timer to help the guest move along the booking process. Additionally, a 5-minute warning is now displayed before the session expires.
Organization Name
Administrators can now make the ‘Organization Name’ field a required field during the reservation process or not, your choice.
Improved guest entry
Guests can now select which rooms they are staying in, enter the name of their guests in other rooms, and also have the option to complete it later. We provide the option for the primary to come back later or assign specific rooms more easily. In the back office – we have also added a report to display all unassigned spaces where the primary has noted to come back later to complete them.
Improved user experience for groups greater than six reservations
Improved the user experience for those booking greater than six room reservations, a new ‘Group Reservation Manager’ has been created with a host of new features.
Improved admin search
Admin users have quicker search capabilities with clearer search results.
Rooming List by sub-block
The Rooming List Report and Export tool has been updated to present information per sub-block, providing a more granular view of hotel inventory.
Product Update: Release 2.1
In the hotel industry, a "sub-block" refers to a group of rooms reserved by an event planner or housing manager for a specific event, such as a conference, festival, or wedding. These rooms are typically reserved in advance and are often discounted or offered at a special rate for the event attendees.
What is a sub-block?
A subblock is a subset of rooms within a hotel’s larger inventory set aside for a specific group or event. These rooms are typically blocked off from the available inventory and cannot be booked by other guests, ensuring they are available for the event attendees.
Subblocks are a common practice in event hotel management because they allow the event planner to ensure that attendees can access suitable accommodations near the event venue. By reserving a block of rooms in advance, event planners can often negotiate better rates and other perks, such as complimentary breakfast or parking, for their attendees.
For hotel managers, subblocks can be a useful tool for managing occupancy and forecasting demand. By working with event planners to set aside a specific number of rooms for an event, hotels can more accurately predict how many rooms will be booked during a given period and adjust their inventory and staffing accordingly.
Overall, sub-blocks are an important part of event hotel management. They can benefit event planners and hotel managers by ensuring that attendees can access suitable accommodations and that hotels can better manage their occupancy and inventory.
What is a sub-block, and how can they help my event?
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When planning and executing successful events, choosing the right venue is critical. Event hotels have become popular for various events, from weddings to corporate conferences. However, managing an event in a hotel can be challenging, and with effective management, things can quickly go smoothly. This article will discuss the importance of effective event hotel management and why it's crucial for a successful event.
Clear Communication and Coordination
The success of an event depends on clear communication and coordination between the event organizer and the hotel staff. This means ensuring everyone involved in the event is on the same page, from the hotel’s sales and events team to the catering and housekeeping staff. The hotel’s event management team should work closely with the event planner to understand their needs and requirements and ensure they are met. Clear communication channels should be established so that everyone knows the schedule, the number of guests and the activities planned for the event.
Accommodation and Room Block Management
If your event requires guests to stay overnight, it’s essential to manage room blocks efficiently. This means working with the hotel’s reservations team or your room block management platform to ensure that guests are placed in the right rooms via subblocks and that their needs are met. It’s important to provide clear instructions to guests on reserving rooms and any available special rates. Event hotel management platforms should be able to handle any last-minute changes and provide solutions to unexpected issues, such as room cancellations or overbooking.
Food and Beverage Management
Food and beverage management is another critical aspect of event hotel management. Event planners should work with the hotel’s catering team to design a menu that suits the event’s theme and meets the guests’ dietary requirements—establishing a timeline for the meal service and ensuring that the food is served on time and in high quality. A contingency plan is also essential in case of unexpected changes or problems with the catering service.
Venue Logistics
The logistics of managing an event in a hotel can be complicated. It’s important to clearly understand the event’s layout, including the location of the main event space, breakout rooms, and restrooms. Event hotel management should ensure that the event space is set up according to the event’s needs and that any AV equipment is working correctly. Having a plan for managing the flow of guests and any potential bottlenecks in the venue is also crucial.
In conclusion, effective event hotel management is crucial to the success of any event. It requires clear communication and coordination between the hotel’s management team and the event planner, efficient accommodation and room block management, proper food and beverage management, and a clear plan for managing the venue’s logistics. By working closely with the hotel’s event management team and ensuring that all aspects of the event are well-managed, event planners can ensure that their guests have a positive experience and that the event is a success.
The Importance of Effective Event Hotel Management
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There's something about luxury hotels that makes us feel special. Maybe it's the plush robes, the gourmet food, or the exotic locations. Whatever it is, we can all admit that there's nothing quite like staying in a luxury hotel.
In this blog post, we’ll look at 15 of the most lavish hotels in the world. We’ll highlight how many rooms they have, what amenities they offer, and what makes them unique. So, if you’re looking for a bit of luxury in your life, keep reading!
1. Burj Al Arab Hotel, Dubai
Rating: 5-Star
The Burj Al Arab Hotel in Dubai is a world-renowned luxury hotel for its opulence and extravagance. Everything about this hotel screams luxury, from its prime location on an artificial island to the crystal and gold-leafed ceilings and marble floors. It’s often called “the world’s only seven-star hotel.”
The Burj Al Arab Hotel is the seventh tallest hotel in the world. Standing at a remarkable 1,053 feet tall, the hotel offers guests a unique view of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline. Each of its luxury suites comes with 24-7 butler service, private terraces, luxury amenities, and stunning views.
The Burj Al Arab Hotel also features an array of restaurants and bars, luxury spas, pools, and activities for guests to enjoy. From luxury shopping to a private beach club and yacht charters, the Burj Al Arab Hotel has something for everyone.
Number of Suites: 199
Meeting/Event Spaces Available: 9
2. Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi
Rating: 5-Star
Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi features luxury amenities such as tennis courts, private beach access, butlers, and luxury spa treatments. Eighty-five hectares of gardens sit proudly behind the white sand beach, offering guests stunning views. The private marina is the destination of choice for luxury yachts.
The palace architecture is stunning to look at too. Schedule a visit if you’d appreciate gold, marble, and 1,000 Swarovski crystal chandeliers.
Emirates Palace is also known for its commitment to sustainability. The hotel faithfully uses renewable energy and has implemented water-saving strategies throughout the hotel.
Number of Suites: 394
Meeting/Event Spaces Available: 41
3. Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas
Rating: 5-Star
Set on the shores of Nassau’s paradise beach and surrounded by crystal clear waters, Atlantis Paradise Island resort offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea that you won’t find anywhere else. There are five separate hotel buildings on the island:
- The Royal
- The Beach
- The Coral
- The Cove
- The Reef
Amenities include:
- 24-hour room service
- Marble bathrooms
- Private balconies with breathtaking ocean views
- Luxurious linens
- The world’s most expansive outdoor aquatic habitat
- Thrilling water parks
- Pampering spa services
- Lush golf courses
Paradise awaits you at this inviting destination!
Number of Suites/Rooms: 3400
Meeting Spaces Available: 60
4. Marquis Los Cabos, Los Cabos
Rating: 5-Star
Marquis Los Cabos is an all-inclusive beachfront resort for adults only. With breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez, this beachfront property includes modern décor and elegant terraces with outdoor hot tubs.
Guests can take advantage of the resort’s many amenities, which include:
- An infinity-edge pool
- Spa treatments
- Fitness center
- Multiple restaurants and bars
- Wellness center
While you’re there, take advantage of the nearby 18-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course or explore the stunning desert terrain by ATV.
Number of Suites: 209 plus 24 Casitas
Meeting/Event Spaces Available: 12
5. Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, Indonesia
Rating: 5-Star
The Four Seasons Resort sits on the stunningly beautiful Indonesian island of Bali. It provides guests with luxurious accommodations and breathtaking natural views.
Guests enjoy traditionally decorated thatched roof villas with private pools and gardens, offering ultimate privacy. Shared facilities include a pool bar, spa treatments, a fitness center, and three outdoor pools.
When it comes to activities, there’s a little something for everyone:
- Sunrise yoga classes
- Private beach for swimming
- Snorkeling
- Kayaking
- Surfing
- Balinese cooking classes
- Artist classes
- Kids Club
- Temple visits
Number of Villas: 147
Meeting/Event Spaces Available: 1
6. Ashford Castle, Ireland
Rating: 5-Star
Ashford Castle, located in County Mayo, Ireland, is a magical setting for discerning travelers. One such traveler was US President Ronald Reagan, who stayed there during his visit to Ireland in 1984.
This historic castle dates back to 1228 and sits amid 350 acres of stunning woodlands and parkland.
The Ashford Castle estate is home to luxurious guestrooms in the main building, where modern amenities complement the castle’s original architecture. Guests can take advantage of the expansive grounds, which include activities such as:
- Archery
- Clay shooting
- Fishing
- Falconry
- Golf
Afterward, enjoy afternoon tea, a horse-drawn carriage ride around the estate, or a whiskey tasting at The Dungeon Bar.
With its breathtaking views of Lough Corrib and Connemara Mountains, Ashford Castle seamlessly blends heritage with luxury. An unforgettable destination.
Number of Rooms/Suites: 83 plus Hideaway Cottage
Meeting/Event Spaces Available: 5
7. Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas, USA
Rating: 5-Star
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Las Vegas, the Four Seasons Hotel offers an oasis of tranquility amid the vibrant cityscape. This five-star hotel features luxurious comfort with state-of-the-art amenities. It’s one of the only non-gaming and non-smoking hotels in Vegas.
Enjoy fine dining at Veranda or grab a drink at the Long Bar. Relax by one of two outdoor pools or indulge in the spa treatments offered. Access to nightlife, shopping, casinos, golf, and more is a short distance from this exclusive hotel.
Number of Rooms/Suites: 379
Meeting/Event Spaces Available: 45
8. The Plaza New York, USA
Rating: 5-Star
The Plaza in New York City is iconic, offering a defining landmark in the city skyline. Stirring up a sense of timeless elegance and refined luxury, The Plaza is a legendary hotel in the heart of Manhattan. The Plaza is a National Historic Landmark featuring a unique French Renaissance chateau design that has withstood the test of time.
Since its inception in 1907, the establishment has been a keystone of sophisticated gatherings for renowned politicians, dignitaries, industrial leaders, and superstars from Broadway and Tinseltown. And, let’s not forget the book character from the 50s, Eloise, who grew up in The Plaza.
Located near Central Park, it offers:
- Spacious guest rooms and suites
- An array of dining options
- Exclusive spa experience
- Afternoon Tea
- Eloise-themed suite and shop
- A rich history
Enjoy the convenience of nearby attractions such as Broadway theaters and Fifth Avenue shopping while taking advantage of unparalleled amenities at The Plaza.
Number of Rooms/Suites: 282
Meeting/Event Spaces Available: 7
9. The Chedi Andermatt, Switzerland
Rating: 5-Star
The Chedi Andermatt is a luxurious mountain resort in Switzerland’s iconic alpine landscape. Known for its modern Alpine-Asian design and contemporary elegance, this hotel features breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps.
Some notable amenities are:
- State-of-the-art spa
- Indoor infinity pool
- Five dining options, including Gourmet Swiss and traditional Japanese cuisine
- Tibetan themed lounge
- Cigar Library
- Wine Library
The Chedi Andermatt offers many adventurous activities, including skiing, hiking, biking, and more.
Number of Rooms/Suites: 123
Meeting/Event Spaces Available: 4
10. Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa, USA
Rating: 5-Star
The Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa is a world-renowned luxury retreat situated on 45 acres of lush San Diego countryside. Boasting the title of San Diego’s only five-star resort, this premier destination offers luxurious accommodations and top-notch amenities for an unforgettable experience.
From spacious villas and suites to private cottages and casitas, guests can choose from a variety of elegant rooms complete with modern decor, marble bathrooms, fireplaces, and an array of thoughtful amenities.
Guests will delight in all that the resort has to offer, such as:
- Lush gardens and olive groves
- Championship golf courses
- Lounging by the pool
- Spa offering relaxing treatments
- Culinary classes
- Award-winning contemporary California cuisine
- Biking
- Tennis
- Yoga classes
Number of Villa/Suites: 49
Meeting/Event Spaces Available: 6
11. Amilla Glamping, Maldives
Rating: 5-Star
Amilla Glamping in the Maldives is an unforgettable, unique bubble-tent camping experience in nature. Sleep under the stars without roughing it.
This unique luxury camping facility offers guests the chance to stay in stylish and comfortable glamping pods. Amilla Glamping pods provide ultimate comfort and convenience with their cutting-edge, waterproof technology, air conditioning, and climate control.
Enjoy camping comfort with on-site access to washroom facilities, outdoor and indoor showers, a plunge pool, and a steam room and sauna. With 360 views of the island jungle, it’s a fully immersive nature experience.
There are six packages available:
- Bubbles and Stars
- Wellness Your Way
- Moonlight Romance
- Private BBQ Dinner for Two
- Overnight Experience
- Cinema, Pizza, and Popcorn night
Massage, wine, private chef, and cinema shows are available as upgrades with any package.
Number of Glamping Packages: 6
Meeting/Event Spaces Available: N/A
12. Giraffe Manor, Kenya
Rating: 5-Star
Giraffe Manor in Kenya is a boutique manor set on 12 acres of serene, leafy grounds in the Langata suburb of Nairobi.
Step into a piece of history as you explore what was once a 1930s Scottish hunting lodge. Here, treat yourself to an unforgettable experience like no other.
Encounter the resident herd of Rothschild’s giraffes daily. Guests can watch these gentle giants from the breakfast table or even from their balcony. It’s a unique African safari experience without leaving the comfort of the manor house.
At Giraffe Manor, you’ll enjoy the following:
- Breakfast with giraffes
- Meet and adopt a baby elephant
- Afternoon tea
- Pool overlooking the gardens
- Dine in the Orchid House
- Croquet and chess
- Gin next to a crackling hearth
- Spa treatments
- Daisy’s Cafe
- Nairobi excursions
With timeless historic guest rooms and picturesque surroundings, Giraffe Manor promises a once-in-a-lifetime stay in one of Africa’s most breathtaking locations.
Number of Rooms: 12
Meeting/Event Spaces Available: None
13. Taj Lake Palace, India
Rating: 5-Star
Set in the heart of Udaipur, India, the 18th-century Taj Lake Palace is an iconic luxury hotel that exudes romance and grandeur. Located on a lake island surrounded by lush greenery, it began as the summer home of Indian royalty. This majestic palace offers guests an unforgettable stay with spectacular views from every angle.
Accommodation ranges from sumptuous suites to magnificent terraces. Each is individually decorated with traditional Indian silks, artwork, and princely-inspired decor to create a unique experience for all visitors.
Guests can take advantage of the luxurious amenities such as:
- Swimming pools
- Spa treatments
- Rooftop restaurant
- Private boat rides
At the Taj Lake Palace, elegance meets sophistication for an unforgettable stay in one of India’s most remarkable settings.
Number of Rooms/Suites: 83
Meeting/Event Spaces Available: 1
14. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
Rating: 5-Star
Conrad Maldives on Rangali Island is an exclusive island resort located on two private islands in the Indian Ocean. This five-star hotel features luxurious villas with modern amenities, a personal butler service for each guest, and an array of activities to choose from.
At Conrad Maldives, guests can experience the following:
- World-class diving and snorkeling
- Beachside champagne dinners
- Sunset boat cruises
- Stairs leading into the Indian Ocean
- Private gardens
- Private sauna
- 12 world-class restaurants
- Subterranean wine bar
- The world’s first undersea restaurant
From its breathtaking ocean vistas to its pristine white sand beaches and crystalline waters, this tropical paradise offers something magical for all.
Number of Villas: 150
Meeting/Event Spaces Available: 1
15. Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai
Rating: 5-Star
Embrace the captivating desert oasis that is Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, located in Dubai’s majestic dune-filled landscape. The resort offers luxurious accommodations with private terraces overlooking the stunning desert and mountain landscape or tranquil gardens.
Immerse yourself in luxury with temperature-controlled swimming pools, handcrafted furnishings, antiques, and ancient artifacts. Guests can relax with pampering spa treatments, a dip in the pool, or go camel riding across the dunes.
At Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, guests enjoy:
- Arabic and Mediterranean cuisine
- Safari jeep rides
- Desert walks
- Horse and camel riding trips
- Cultural activities such as falconry and archery
- Private candlelit dinners in the desert
- Swimming pools
- The spa and gym
At Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, luxury and adventure meet for a world-class stay in the Middle East.
Number of Rooms/Suites: 42
Meeting/Event Spaces Available: 1
Final Thoughts
The luxury hotels featured in this article offer unique, unforgettable experiences for those who choose to wander. From camel rides at Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa to the world’s first undersea restaurant at Conrad Maldives, luxury travelers get spoiled for choice.
If you’re looking for an amazing luxury hotel for your bucket list, be sure to check out these properties – adventure awaits!
The 15 Most Luxurious Hotels in the World
The hospitality industry was rocked hard by COVID-19, with in-person events grinding to a complete stop at points. As venues and event managers plan for the post-COVID uptick, though, changes will need to be considered. Here are 10 factors event managers should know for in-person events post-COVID.
1. Events need clearer contingencies
Cancellations and postponements are costly, and a pandemic makes them more unpredictable.If a venue needs to cancel, communicating early with attendees gives them time to adjust. Clear refund policies – paired with timely pay-outs – can preserve a venue’s relationship with guests.If a guest cancels, managers should have an accurate account of the financial implications in order to pivot effectively. Unclear costs can make replacement events harder to organize.
2. Value added services can generate revenue
A slump in business over the last year means event managers are working with even tighter budgets. One solution over the last year has been to cut value added services and only focus on essentials. As in-person events pick up, however, these extra services offer an opportunity to generate more revenue.Services that generate excitement and can market a venue’s services can secure future business.
3. Supply chains need to be evaluated
Suppliers faced just as much turmoil as the organizers could no longer buy from them. Before operations pick back up, event managers should assess their current supply chains to make sure they can keep up. Supply chain issues that are detected early can be addressed while there’s still time.
4. Supply chains need to be evaluated
Suppliers faced just as much turmoil as the organizers could no longer buy from them. Before operations pick back up, event managers should assess their current supply chains to make sure they can keep up. Supply chain issues that are detected early can be addressed while there’s still time.
5. Safety considerations for in-person events
Depending on the event location, managers may have to prove an event will meet all existing safety standards. This is especially true for events that need room block management. In some cases, that might even mean applying for post-COVID permits or gaining approval from the right committee.Not only is safety a major consideration for post-COVID events, but a certified standard is a great marketing tool to guests who still have their own concerns.
6. Value added services can generate revenue
Managing everything manually takes more time and labor. Using event software can automate some processes that would otherwise strain a budget or a downscaled team. Software like Cvent Passkey, for example, allows guests to self-book within an assigned room block online. It also has tools for upgrading rooms, extending stays and updating reports in real time.
This reduces admin costs and allows event managers to focus on the tasks that need them most.
7.Venues are eager to jump start operations
Venues are keen to make up losses with events, but this will need a level of caution to execute. Staff reductions, budget cuts and a less stable influx of guests will all affect the level of event that can be realistically pulled off.
In these early stages, it may be more important to manage within ones means to lay the foundation.
8. Communication isn’t strictly digital anymore
Many organizers pivoted to virtual events to keep business going, but in-person events mean in-person contact. Dress codes, guest training for staff, and presentation will once again be major factors.Sharpening those skills is the first step to presenting guests with a professional and fulfilling event.
9. Attendance tracking can minimize disruptions
Early communication is a big theme here for a reason. Even if an event stays on schedule, individual guests might cancel. Tracking attendance allows for better room block management and allows event planners to dedicate resources to those in attendance.
Up-to-date attendance numbers reduce wastage and make for housing management and organizing – and that’s the goal in these early stages.
10. Event managers, not venues, are in demand
Guests want an organizer who can help them manage an in-person event post-COVID, and venues want managers who can generate good business. From room block management to sourcing supplies and executing, this is the time for event managers to show how valuable they are.
Venues may be more willing to offer higher commission rates to secure the best managers. While this trend won’t last forever, it’s a good time for professionals to negotiate their service contracts.
11. Hybrid events can help scale back up
Depending on room block availability and venue resources, not all businesses will be able to host events at full capacity from the start. Hybrid events provide a middle ground by using streaming and virtual rooms to supplement in-person events.
Doing this allows businesses to slowly scale operations back up to full capacity while generating revenue. It also allows event managers to work through early issues while the stakes are still low – and that troubleshooting experience will pay dividends on the bigger stage.
Hospitality in a post-pandemic world is possible – it just needs clever planning, strong communication and an eye for spotting problems early. Those qualities have always been important for event managers. Now more than ever, though, they can be used to navigate the new landscape and breathe life back into the industry.
Top 10 post-covid factors for event managers to consider
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