Experience Design & Engagement
Explore strategies for crafting memorable and impactful attendee experiences, from creative event design to fostering deep engagement. Sessions cover experiential marketing, personalized journeys, and measuring attendee happiness at Skift Meetings Forum 2025.
Viral Moments
35
Create FOMO strategically!
No more imposter syndrome!
Anticipation, interest, vulnerability
Bring the City Inside
Inclusion without cameras!
Beyond event logistics
Unlock audience sentiment!
Remembering vs. Experiencing
Are you a participant?
Know your audience!
Local stories, real impact
Human connection wins!
Community is everything!
Thoughtfulness is key!
Budget-Friendly Magic
Catalyze happiness, trust
Connect, don't just transact!
Beyond Financial Returns
Track soft metrics!
Real experiences matter.
Safe space to learn
Authenticity is Key
Design for lasting memories
Amazing people, great crowd!
Human Connection Matters
Feel seen and heard!
Energized, connected, inspired!
Brands, stop just sponsoring!
Feel seen and heard!
Listen with empathy
Future of Events
Experience the excitement!
Build Your Tribe First
Yoga at conferences? Yes!
Beyond Remote Locations
Key Quotes
7
“Experiential marketing as a craft was really only named about 15-20 years ago where it's like we're going to call this what we're doing planning events strategy around events meeting people in person underneath the moniker of experiential.”
“I think Southby is not Southby without Austin, and Austin is not Austin without Southby, right? like the two just go hand in hand and and Tiffany said it too, it's just in both of our DNA.”
“You bring people together and you give people something that they can't get anywhere else. And that's true community.”
“If you can surround yourself with people who will find the solution... you'd already set the stage for people to come with the solution-minded orientation.”
“People want to feel part of something different and community, right? And when you look at these events, they have a much higher return on um higher return on the meeting satisfaction scores.”
“Events are the only authentic communications channel that is out there. And this is why experiences outplay everything.”
“If you approach business from a very transactional lens, the best thing you will get is a transaction selling something. If you approach it from a relationship building lens, then you might discover a business partner, a new idea, partnership, an investor, a new employee.”
Chapters
62
Articles
7
In an increasingly digitized world, the power of in-person connections and authentic brand experiences is more vital than ever. This sentiment was echoed by industry leaders Cat Tulie from HubSpot and Brendan Brown from GPJ, who recently shared their insights on delivering event activations that truly elevate brands.
Austin, Texas, a city synonymous with innovation and vibrant culture, is embarking on a transformative journey for its event industry. With the Austin Convention Center slated for a four-year renovation starting in April 2025, the city is not just adapting but actively reimagining how large-scale events can thrive by utilizing the entire destination as a dynamic venue.
In an increasingly crowded event landscape, the true measure of success is no longer just attendance or revenue, but the depth of connection and transformation experienced by attendees. A recent panel discussion featuring leaders from Pinterest, Forbes, and TED illuminated the 'new rules' of event leadership, emphasizing a profound shift from transactional gatherings to spaces that foster genuine community and lasting impact.
In a world saturated with events, standing out requires more than flawless execution. It demands a deep understanding of the human experience. Tahira Endean, a seasoned event professional and author, champions a paradigm shift: measuring success not just by attendance or revenue, but by the 'joy' attendees feel. Her insights offer a compelling roadmap for designing events that resonate long after the lights dim.
In an era where attendees, particularly the rising Gen Z, crave more than just standard conference programming, event planners are challenged to innovate. The focus is shifting from traditional setups to creating deeply memorable and culturally immersive experiences. This session explores how unexpected moments and places can profoundly elevate attendee satisfaction and foster stronger community connections.
In an era increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, the very nature of authenticity is being redefined. While AI promises unprecedented efficiency and content generation, it simultaneously underscores the unique and irreplaceable value of live human experiences. This dynamic shift presents both challenges and unparalleled opportunities for the event industry.
C2 Montreal has carved a unique niche in the global event landscape, transforming traditional conferences into vibrant business festivals where creativity fuels commerce. With a philosophy centered on human connection, C2 designs immersive experiences that break down barriers and foster meaningful relationships, proving that business thrives when people truly connect.
Sessions
6
