In this episode of the Better Events Podcast, we’re talking all about working with vendors—what that really means and why those relationships are key to a successful event. From how to find trusted vendors for a new project to what info to share upfront, we’re answering common questions we hear from both new and seasoned planners. We’ll also chat about navigating high quotes, verifying expertise, and how to wrap things up professionally after the event. Whether you’re building your vendor list or want to strengthen existing partnerships, this episode is packed with practical tips.

SHOW NOTES:

Learn more about Eventeny and get a $500 discount, a special gift for Better Events listeners by visiting: https://product.eventeny.com/better-events-promo

Logan's YouTube Video on How to Source a New A/V Partner: https://youtu.be/apPQy90FFQs

Register interest for the 2025 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference

Join the paid Better Events Community: https://bettereventspodcast.substack.com/

Buy Us a Coffee Link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bettereventspod

THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!

Leave us a rating on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/04ivq77TMgF5HhJHJOMe1V

Leave us a review on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/better-events/id1561944117

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

In this week’s episode, we're celebrating 200 episodes of the Better Events podcast! That's over 6,000 minutes of event-related content across 5 seasons. In this episode, Logan and Mary answer your questions, from what you need in your portfolio to how to add cost-effective things that make a big impact to reaching out to sponsors for your events. You'll learn something you can apply to your events immediately after listening.

SHOW NOTES:

Learn more about Event Badger at https://www.eventbadger.com/

- Mention the Better Events Podcast for 10% off your first order!

Work-life Balance Bonus Pod: https://bettereventspodcast.substack.com/p/december-2024-bonus-work-life-balance

Profit First Book: https://bookshop.org/p/books/la-ganancia-es-primero-transforma-tu-negocio-en-una-maquina-de-hacer-dinero-y-logra-una-rentabilidad-inmediata-profit-first-transforma-tu-negocio-mike-michalowicz/266082

Buy Back Your Time Book: https://bookshop.org/p/books/buy-back-your-time-get-unstuck-reclaim-your-freedom-and-build-your-empire-dan-martell/18422553?ean=9780593422977&next=t

Register interest for the 2025 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference

Join the paid Better Events Community: https://bettereventspodcast.substack.com/

Buy Us a Coffee Link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bettereventspod

THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!

Leave us a rating on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/04ivq77TMgF5HhJHJOMe1V

Leave us a review on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/better-events/id1561944117

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

This week, we sit down with Deesha Dyer, a woman whose career trajectory is nothing short of extraordinary. As the former White House Social Secretary, she brings a unique perspective to our conversation, sharing her experiences and insights from orchestrating events on a global stage. We also dive into the art of event design, with Deesha sharing real-world examples and practical strategies to captivate attendees. Tune in to discover how to create truly memorable event experiences that resonate.

SHOW NOTES:

Connect with Deesha Dyer:

Website: www.deeshadyer.com

Instagram: @deedyer267

Purchase the replays for the 2024 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference

Join the paid Better Events Community: https://bettereventspodcast.substack.com/

Buy Us a Coffee Link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bettereventspod

THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!

Leave us a rating on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/04ivq77TMgF5HhJHJOMe1V

Leave us a review on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/better-events/id1561944117

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

In this week’s episode, Mary deep dives into her latest experience at the infamous SXSW (South by Southwest) in Austin, Texas. She shares her key takeaways, lessons learned and how you can attend in the future.

SHOW NOTES:

Join the paid Better Events Community: https://bettereventspodcast.substack.com/

Buy the replays to the 2024 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference

Buy Us a Coffee Link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bettereventspod

THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!

Leave us a rating on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/04ivq77TMgF5HhJHJOMe1V

Leave us a review on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/better-events/id1561944117

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

In this week’s episode, join Logan and Mary as they reflect on the first three months of 2025. They discuss the highs and lows of the quarter, sharing insights on the most rewarding aspects and standout moments that have shaped their early 2025. Listen as they delve into the strategies and practices they plan to carry forward, and learn how they intend to recharge and reset for the next bustling quarter. This episode is packed with personal reflections and actionable advice for event professionals looking to evaluate their own progress and plan ahead.

SHOW NOTES:

Unreasonable Hospitality Book (Eleven Madison Park): https://bookshop.org/p/books/unreasonable-hospitality-the-remarkable-power-of-giving-people-more-than-they-expect-will-guidara/17927785

Buy the replays to the 2024 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference

Join the paid Better Events Community: https://bettereventspodcast.substack.com/

Buy Us a Coffee Link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bettereventspod

THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!

Leave us a rating on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/04ivq77TMgF5HhJHJOMe1V

Leave us a review on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/better-events/id1561944117

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

In this week's episode, dive into the essential pre-event routines that seasoned event planners and producers swear by to ensure everything goes smoothly. From the final high-level preparations the day before an event to the non-negotiable tasks that set the stage for success, our discussion covers it all. Learn about the checklists, team protocols, and personal habits that keep top professionals focused and calm, including how they manage their energy with specific meals and physical prep like comfy shoes and hydration. Plus, discover the one thing they wish they had started doing sooner in their careers to enhance their performance and efficiency on the job.

SHOW NOTES:

Learn more about Event Badger at https://www.eventbadger.com/

• Mention the Better Events Podcast for 10% off your first order!

Buy the replays to the 2024 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference

Join the paid Better Events Community: https://bettereventspodcast.substack.com/

Buy Us a Coffee Link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bettereventspod

THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!

Leave us a rating on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/04ivq77TMgF5HhJHJOMe1V

Leave us a review on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/better-events/id1561944117

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

This week, Logan and Mary dive into one of the trickiest topics for event professionals: determining what to charge for your services. They discuss the complexities of setting rates without a standard blueprint, how they feel about their current pricing, and the factors that influence their decisions. From understanding city-specific standards to adjusting fees for different event types and handling travel expenses, they cover all the bases. Tune in for an honest look at the financial side of event planning and gain insights to help you confidently set your own pricing.

SHOW NOTES:

Learn more about Pro Event Tips (and let them know we sent you): https://www.proeventtips.com/

Buy the replays to the 2024 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference

Join the paid Better Events Community: https://bettereventspodcast.substack.com/

Buy Us a Coffee Link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bettereventspod

THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!

Leave us a rating on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/04ivq77TMgF5HhJHJOMe1V

Leave us a review on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/better-events/id1561944117

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

This week, we dive more into the misunderstood topic of tipping within the event industry. Logan and Mary delve into what tipping really means, how it differs from service fees, and who should be considered when gratuities are given at events. They address a listener's question about standard tipping practices and share personal experiences with tipping as event planners. Learn more about why tipping can feel so confusing and get practical tips for handling gratuities at your next event.

SHOW NOTES:

Learn more about Pro Event Tips (and let them know we sent you): https://www.proeventtips.com/

Buy the replays to the 2024 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference

Join the paid Better Events Community: https://bettereventspodcast.substack.com/

Buy Us a Coffee Link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bettereventspod

THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!

Leave us a rating on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/04ivq77TMgF5HhJHJOMe1V

Leave us a review on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/better-events/id1561944117

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

This week, Logan breaks down what information your A/V partner needs for your next event into five key areas to set your event up for success. Learn more about the questions your A/V company has and how to avoid common mistakes that can lead to last-minute scrambling and budget increases.

To watch the original series on Logan's YouTube channel, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoJPIWq7Xp4&list=PLJUlbNbWYyL38UhHxS2WDSRal4Sr1gK7K

SHOW NOTES:

Follow Logan and her business at:

Website: https://www.loganstrategygroup.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loganstrategygroup_events/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVvM0ofLqO3txk9-TPirVnw/featured?view_as=subscriber

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/loganstrategygroup/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loganclements/

Purchase the replays for the 2024 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference

Join the paid Better Events Community: https://bettereventspodcast.substack.com/

Buy Us a Coffee Link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bettereventspod

THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!

Leave us a rating on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/04ivq77TMgF5HhJHJOMe1V

Leave us a review on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/better-events/id1561944117

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

This week, Mary shares a clip from her recent talk at the Non Profit Events Mini-Con in Seattle. Learn more about what you need to do first, at the beginning of your planning process, if you're getting ready for a fundraising event.

SHOW NOTES:

Follow Mary and her business at:

Website: https://epevents.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epeventsllc/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/epeventsllc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/epeventsllc/

Mary's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryrosedavidson/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmEvVsPv_xXt7G0mrACd_cg

Purchase the replays for the 2024 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference

Join the paid Better Events Community: https://bettereventspodcast.substack.com/

Buy Us a Coffee Link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bettereventspod

THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!

Leave us a rating on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/04ivq77TMgF5HhJHJOMe1V

Leave us a review on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/better-events/id1561944117

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)