Global Meetings Industry Day of Education Recap by Karly Watson
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The theme of the day was “Meet Safe,” and most session content focused on how to get back to in-person meetings. Topics included the newest trends in catering, innovative technology for hybrid and virtual events, new considerations for contract negotiation and sustainability, to name a few. There were even a few case studies highlighted to provide attendees real-life examples of how trade shows and events are returning. One of my favorite sessions was the State of the Industry Panel, which was moderated by Annette Gregg, senior vice president of experience, Meeting Professionals International. The one-hour panel discussion offered a high-level overview from several executive leaders about where the meetings and events industry stands today and where we are headed.
State of the Industry Panel - Pictured, clockwise from the top left:
Annette Gregg, Senior Vice President of Experience, MPI; Paul Van Deventer, Chief Executive Officer, MPI; Julie Coker, President & CEO, San Diego Tourism Authority; Lori Pugh Marcum, Head of Meeting Innovation, MPI ; Carina Bauer, Chief Executive Officer, IMEX; Mike Massari, Chief Sales Officer, Caesars Entertainment Corporation
The day would not have been complete without opportunities for guests to engage! There were several “wellness breaks” during the day that gave attendees a chance to get up and strike a yoga pose or participate in a brief meditation. There was also a virtual photo booth provided by PixiWeb where guests could upload a photo with a special GMID frame. SongDivision even created a custom song for the day with the help of the virtual audience!
PixiWeb Virtual Photo Booth
Overall, the day was informative, fun and gave the MPI Global community a chance to connect. Attendees seemed to really enjoy the content and also seemed to get a lot out of the experience. And for those who hadn’t had enough fun throughout the day, there was a short GMID after party that started at the close of the main event. With GMID 2021 now in our rearview mirror, we can look forward to brighter roads ahead for the rest of 2021 and beyond!
