The Savvy Event Planner Podcast: Event Planning | Corporate Entertainment | Event Services | Tom Crowl

Event planners already have a lot on their plate. When you add travel and lodging to an event it can become a nightmare. In some areas, it is illegal for event planners to book or pay for travel for their clients. Why toss that duty back on a client?

Jessica Tomcsik provides travel services for personal and business clients. From personal trips, wedding parties and corporate retreats, she helps planners solve travel problems. In this episode she shares reasons why event planners should partner with travel agents.

By the end of this interview you will learn:

* The most important training for a travel agent.

* Role a travel agent plays in the planning of a destination event.

* Travel logistics an event planner should consider when working on a destination event.

* The benefits of holding an event on a cruise ship.

* Is travel insurance really important?

* When is the best time to plan a destination event?

* The hottest event destinations for 2016.

* Why a travel agent won't add to your event budget.

* How a travel agent relieves hassle and stress for you and your client.

Interview bonuses:

Right click here and save-as to download this episode to your computer.

Right click and save-as to download the Episode 22 transcript.

Click here to read the transcript online.

Links and resources from this interview:

Jessica's Report: The Top 10 Reasons Why Event Planners Should Partner With A Travel Agent

Jessica's Website: www.shipshapevacation.com

Jessica's Email: [email protected]

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Thanks for listening!

Thank you for joining us for this episode. Plus a big thanks to Jessica for sharing her insights on how travel agents can help you become a more Savvy Event Planner.

Have you ever worked with a travel agent? Are you considering the option? Take a moment to let us know. Leave a note in the comments section below:

Melanie Woodward has planned events for Honda, HGTV and other high profile clients. Soon, other event planners were coming to her for advice. That prompted Melanie to begin a blog sharing event planning tips and insights. This project eventually morphed into the Event Planning Blueprint. Now Melanie not only creates amazing events, she helps others become professional event planners.

By the end of this interview you will learn:

* How powerful referrals are in advancing a career.

* The logistics behind planning destination events.

* Why Destination Management Companies (DMC) are a valuable partner.

* How honesty and communication can reduce stress.

* Reasons event planners should attend other events.

*  The logic behind variety and “too much to do.”

* Why the party is so important.

* A resource to create your own event app.

* Ways to “set the tone” for success.

* How a “give back day” can affect your attendees.

* Powerful methods to impact people in your everyday life.

* The value of interacting with other event planners.

* Tips for finding and cultivating event sponsors.

* Ideas to simplify event sponsorships.

* Why proving ROI is so important to an event planner.

Interview bonuses:

Right click here and save-as to download this episode to your computer.

Right click and save-as to download the Episode 21 transcript.

Click here to read the transcript online.

Links and resources from this interview:

Awesomenessfest.com

Acts Of Impacteurness

Event Planning Blueprint – (This is a link to The Event Toolkit.)

Note: I was so impressed with Melanie during our conversations and interview, I have become an affiliate for her Event Planning Blueprint. If you use the above link and decide to purchase the blueprint, the price remains the same to you, however I receive a commission on the sale. While I feel this might be a help to some of our audience, please do not purchase anything you do not need, want or can't afford.

Event Planning Blueprint Blog

YAPP – Event Planning App

Have You Subscribed?

Get event planning content every Monday. Don't miss a single episode. It is easy to subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast directory. Just click the link!

I also appreciate reviews for The Savvy Event Planner Podcast on iTunes! I read each one and always appreciate and consider the feedback.

Thanks for listening!

Another huge “THANK YOU” to Melanie for being such a wonderful guest and sharing so much gold!

Inspired by an idea? Have a question for Melanie? Or for me? Let us know in the comments section below:

Planning an international convention can be stressful. Mark Wade has planned so many, he has it down to an art. In this episode Mark shares a unique look into a niche market convention. Attendees from around the globe converge on Hebron, Kentucky for a week every year. And they return, year after year.

A fascinating look at the common denominators and differences of niche event planning.

By the end of this interview you will learn:

* The 40 year history of a unique niche convention.

* Frustrations caused by revolving chairmen and event planners.

* The downside of long term venue contracts.

* Dealing with disruptive or publicity seeking attendees.

* An overview of a new venue tour.

* Why letters of invitation are required by some countries.

* Considerations of feeding an international audience.

* One convention's mixture of education vs entertainment.

* The importance of focusing on the international aspect.

* The art of making “newbies” feel like part of the family.

* Importance of selecting the right department heads.

* Why holding pre and post convention meetings are important.

* Concepts for handling the unexpected.

* Inside view of moving people safely from venue to location and back.

* The importance of knowing what your attendees expect.

Interview bonuses:

Right click here and save-as to download this episode to your computer.

Right click and save-as to download the Episode 20 transcript.

Click here to read the transcript online.

Links and resources from this interview:

The Vent Haven International Ventriloquist ConVENTion Website

Have You Subscribed?

Killer event planning content comes your way every Monday. Don't miss a single episode. It is easy to subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast directory. Just click the link!

I also appreciate honest reviews for The Savvy Event Planner Podcast on iTunes! I read each one and appreciate the feedback.

Thanks for listening!

Mark & I hope this look into a niche convention inspires your events.

Inspired by an idea? Is there something you could adapt to your events? Share your thoughts in the comments section below:

Bethany Smith began her event planning career with Americorps. Her degree in public relations and advertising led to creating social media campaigns. The two knitted together, driving traffic and raising awareness for events.

The common thread in her journey was copywriting. Event planners have many different things to write. Emails, invitations, blog posts, sales pages, social media posts and more. The question is, what should you be saying? What do you need to talk about? How can you write copy that generates action?

Listen to this episode and find out. Bethany shares solid gold tips for creating compelling copy, along with event planning insights you don't want to miss.

By the end of this interview you will learn:

* The key to telling your story authentically online.

* Insights into planning a zero budget event.

* The power of turning a social media campaign into a Pop Up Event.

* Why events are the best way to “Humanize” a company.

* The types of copywriting event planners struggle with.

* What your copy must achieve.

* 5 tips for writing event copy that converts.

* Why you must always write to sell.

* How to do that without coming off as “salesy”.

* Secrets behind delivering on perfect promises.

* Why writing for your audience is more important than SEO.

* Social Media tips that generate engagement.

Interview bonuses:

Right click here and save-as to download this episode to your computer.

Right click and save-as to download the Episode 19 transcript.

Click here to read the transcript online.

Links and resources from this interview:

The Planners Process Blog

Aspiration Station

Follow Bethany on Twitter

Click here to contact Bethany by email

Have You Subscribed?

Killer event planning content comes your way every Monday. Don't miss a single episode. It is easy to subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast directory. Just click the link!

I also appreciate honest reviews for The Savvy Event Planner Podcast on iTunes! I read each one and appreciate the feedback.

Thanks for listening!

As always, I'd like to thank Bethany for being such a wonderful guest on the show. She went above and beyond to provide us with great information that the audience can put to use. I'd also like to thank you for taking time from your busy schedule to be with us!

Share your event copywriting challenges or triumphs in the comments section below:

 

You'd never consider a second rate meal for a corporate dinner. Yet event planners sometimes try to save on speakers, presenters and entertainment. Unfortunately, a bad program can ruin your event no matter what you serve on a plate.

In this episode, Andy Saks shares insights based on his work as a professional keynote speaker & trade show presenter. Event planners, meeting professionals and trade show booth managers, take note. You don't want to miss this episode.

By the end of this interview you will learn:

* What to consider before hiring a speaker or presenter.

* Negotiating tips when you are on a tight budget.

* Coaching ideas to improve management speeches.

* Why hiring a professional trade show presenter saves you money.

* How to stage a presenter in the trade show environment.

* The perfect microphone for trade show presentations.

* Trade show “good neighbor” tips.

* Timing your trade show presentations to own the floor.

* Secrets for a good trade show presentation.

Interview bonuses:

Right click here and save-as to download this episode to your computer.

Right click and save-as to download the Episode 14 transcript.

Click here to read the transcript online.

Links and resources from this interview:

SparkPresentations.com

Thanks for listening!

Andy has agreed to respond to comments here on the show notes. Care to leave some feedback, ask some questions or get additional insights? Leave a note in the comments section below. Please be patient. It may take some time for Andy to respond during the holiday season.

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with your friends on social media using share buttons on this page. We try to make it easy for you!

Have you subscribed to the podcast? Take a moment and click the subscribe button to the right!

I also appreciate honest reviews for The Savvy Event Planner Podcast on iTunes! Ratings and reviews not only help the rankings of the show, but I read each and every one. Your support and thoughts motivate me improve the program and I truly appreciate them.

Another very big thank you to Andy for offering us great information and making himself available for follow up.

David Spark helps planners make their events go viral. His background in advertising, television and comedy, combines to create shareable branded content.

While working trade shows, David discovered how behaviors prevented companies from maximizing their leads. In his words: “On a normal day, we talk to our co-workers. We look at our phone. We check our phone. We work on our computer. We eat at our desk sometimes. That behavior, everything I just described to you is horribly bad at a trade show.”

In thie episode David shares everything from  content marketing techniques to trade show staff training. It is an information packed interview you don't want to miss.

By the end of this interview you will learn:

* Ideas for generating content at your events.

* The meaning and shareable value of soundbite video clips.

* Ways to maximize the viral value of a video clip.

* The reason it is easier to focus on logistics than staffing.

* Why most people don't realize they have a trade show staff problem.

* Behaviors that reduce lead generation at trade shows.

* The unnatural environment a trade show presents.

* How to layer your booth staff.

* The value of planning and rehearsing one-on-one engagement.

* Methods to stop, qualify, move and end conversations with attendees.

* and much, much more…

Interview bonuses:

Right click here and save-as to download this episode to your computer.

Right click and save-as to download the Episode 13 transcript.

Click here to read the transcript online.

Links and resources from this interview:

David's book – Three Feet from Seven Figures: One-on-One Engagement Techniques to Qualify More Leads at Trade Shows

3feetbook.com

David also offers: Comedian-Led Trade Show Training

SparkMediaSolutions.com

Fiverr.com

Odesk & eLance have merged into: Upwork.com

Podcast Episode 11 with Robert Strong

Thanks for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing this on social media using the buttons you’ll see at the top of the show notes.

Have you subscribed to the podcast? Take a moment and click the subscribe button to the right!

I also appreciate reviews for The Savvy Event Planner Podcast on iTunes! Ratings and reviews not only help the rankings of the show, but I read each and every one. Your support and thoughts motivate me improve the program and I truly appreciate them.

Share your thoughts and feedback! Leave a note in the comments section below. I always enjoy hearing from our listeners.

Once again, a very big thank you to David for joining me on this episode.

Content is king. Using content to market your event and keep it top of mind for attendees is easier than ever. In the words of my guest, Christina R. Green ” Content is everywhere. You can get inspired from everything …”

But in a world brimming with content, how can you stand out? How can you capture the attention of your audience? How can you continue to be a thought leader with so many other things on your plate?

In this episode, Christina shares tips and ideas to generate and multiply the effects of content. Event planners take note – this is one episode you don't want to miss.

Click here to rate the podcast or leave us a review on iTunes.

By the end of this interview you will learn:

* The real definition of content marketing.

* Four ways content helps an event planner.

* How to stand out in a content crazed world.

* Why content must appeal to the emotions of your audience.

* The steps to planning killer content.

* How to concentrate your dissemination efforts.

* Easy resources you can use to create content immediately.

* The biggest success secret to marketing with content.

* A recipe for successful storytelling and why most people mess up.

Interview bonuses:

Right click here and save-as to download this episode to your computer.

Right click and save-as to download the Episode 12 transcript.

Click here to read the transcript online.

Links and resources from this interview:

ChristinaRGreen.com

Content Marketing Institute

Gamification article

Thanks for listening!

Let us know your thoughts. Did you find this information helpful? Were you inspired? Please leave a note in the comments section below and provide your feedback about this episode.

If you enjoyed Christina's insights, please share this episode on social media. Just use the buttons at the bottom of the page.

Are you subscribed to the podcast on iTunes? If not, take a moment and do it now so you won't miss any of our upcoming episodes.

I also appreciate honest reviews on iTunes! Ratings and reviews help others find us, plus I read each and every one. Your support and thoughts motivate me improve the podcast and I truly appreciate them.

Another huge thank you to Christina for sharing and inspiring me during this interview.

Robert Strong is a trade show trainer, networking expert, speaker and magician. He travels the world helping companies train their employees to improve their networking skills.

On the trade show floor, Robert uses magic & his talent as a presenter. Working with companies, he helps isolate and eliminate problem areas that can reduce their trade show ROI.

In this episode, he shares tips for event planners and trade show booth managers. From networking ice breakers to planning a trade show to generating more leads, we'll cover it all.

Click here to leave a review or rating on iTunes.

By the end of this interview you will learn:

* How to use simple misdirection to gain people's attention.

* The power of yes.

* A method to get people on their feet and interacting.

* Ways to overcome bad networking habits.

* Tips to improve your elevator pitch.

* Trade show organizing tips for event planners.

* Booth design tips that increase lead generation.

* Methods to improve booth staff attitude.

* Mistakes many trade show staffers make that reduce ROI.

* Easy engagement techniques to stop and qualify leads.

* Giveaway tips to increase trade show buzz.

Interview bonuses:

Right click here and save-as to download this episode to your computer.

Right click and save-as to download the Episode 11 transcript.

Click here to read the transcript online.

Links and resources from this interview:

StrongEntertainment.com

Smart Meetings Magazine

Savvy Event Planner Podcast – Episode 4 – Disney Experience

DropBox – (If you sign up using this link, you will get an extra 500 MB of bonus space!)

Google Drive

Thanks for listening!

Please take a moment to share some feedback about this episode. Just leave a note in the comments section below.

If you enjoyed my interview with Robert, please share this episode on social media using the buttons you’ll see at the bottom of the page.

I also appreciate honest reviews for The Savvy Event Planner Podcast on iTunes! Ratings and reviews not only help the rankings of the show, but I read each and every one. Your support and thoughts motivate me improve the program and I truly appreciate them.

Finally, if you haven't already, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes to get the latest episodes through automatic updates.

Once again, a big thank you to Robert for sharing some incredible information on this episode.

Jacob Weiss' graduate degree focused on connecting local communities. His career as a corporate entertainer followed suit. Following the model of Tom's Shoes, Jacob created an element of giving back to the community.

This interview will open your eyes to the possibilities that surround you as an event planner.  Mixing social responsibility with corporate charity & events creates a unique experience on many levels.

Click To Tweet: Jacob Weiss shares how giving back adds value to your event.

By the end of this interview you will learn:

* The power of integrating elements of cause marketing with your event.

* Why “giving back” adds an extra layer of value for your attendees.

* The value of nurturing community relationships with charitable organizations.

* Team building techniques that benefit the community.

* How to locate partners that extend the benefits of your community outreach.

Interview bonuses:

Right click here and save-as to download this episode to your computer.

Right click and save-as to download the Episode 10 transcript.

Click here to read the transcript online.

Links and resources from this interview:

Jacob's Performance Website: playingbyair.com

Creativitymoveskids.org

Creativitymovesevents.com

Thanks for listening!

Let us know your thoughts. Please leave a note in the comments section below. Provide feedback and share your ideas on this subject. Your feedback and comments help me to learn and grow.

Share this episode on social media! Just use the buttons at the bottom of the page.

Not subscribed to the podcast? Subscribe now on iTunes. That way you won't miss any of our upcoming episodes. I also appreciate honest reviews on iTunes! Ratings and reviews help others find us, plus I read each and every one. Your support and thoughts motivate me improve the podcast and I truly appreciate them.

Thanks again Jacob for sharing, inspiring and challenging us all to be socially conscious.

Marketing events can challenge even the most savvy event planner.

David Ranalli studied public relations in college as part of his career preparation. Since graduating, he has experimented with social media in his business. In this episode, you will discover the unique differences between social and traditional media. David shares how each media can best serve you in your marketing efforts.

Click To Tweet: David shares PR & Social Media Tips for Event Planners today.

By the end of this interview you will learn:

* How public relations and marketing tie into show business.

* The growth of media from traditional to modern social outlets.

* Techniques for using media to document your event.

* Why storytelling is stronger than sales copy on social platforms.

* An overview of different social media platforms and how they are used.

* About up and coming social platforms.

* What to consider when planning social media campaigns.

* Using social media to follow up an event.

* Tools that can help your social media stand out.

Interview bonuses:

Right click here and save-as to download this episode to your computer.

Right click and save-as to download the Episode 9 transcript.

Click here to read the transcript online.

Links and resources from this interview:

David's 10 Action Steps You Can Take To Improve Your Social Media

DavidRanalli.com

Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook: How to Tell Your Story in a Noisy Social World

Cannon VIXIA G20

David's Rev Video Example:

Thanks for listening!

Did you find this interview helpful? Please leave a note in the comments section below and provide your feedback about this episode.

If you enjoy the Savvy Event Planner Podcast, please share it on social media. Just use the buttons at the bottom of the page.

Are you subscribed to the podcast on iTunes? If not, take a moment and do it now so you won’t miss any of our upcoming episodes.

I also appreciate honest reviews on iTunes! Ratings and reviews help others find us, plus I read each and every one. Your support and thoughts motivate me improve the podcast and I truly appreciate them.

Thanks again to David for taking the time to share during this interview.