Frequently Asked Questions

 

I need help planning an event from start to finish. Do you do that?

Yes! We love event concept planning. Working closely with our client and their internal team, we gather all information related to the organization and department and utilize this information to develop an event concept and proposal(s) to present to the client. We even offer Strategy Sessions at 90-minute, half-day, and full-day increments to help inspire our clients to innovate their next event.

How do you integrate hybrid experiences into virtual events?

Whether you are looking for virtual catering, a virtual team-building experience, or curated swag boxes, BLME has you covered. We identify, negotiate, and work with partners to customize your experience and execute delivery for your attendees.

Can you help with sponsor fulfillment and strategic partnerships?

In virtual events, it’s important to focus on sponsor and partner ROI. Together with your team, we institute plans to ensure that sponsors, partners, and exhibitors have the same opportunities to showcase their products and services, network and connect, and reach their goals as they would at a live event.

what information should we prepare for our initial event planning meeting?

We see events as an extension of your business. We like to do a deep dive into our client’s brand. You should bring any relevant event-related information, including mission and vision, brand pillars, annual and quarterly goals and objectives, the purpose for the event as it relates to your business goals, the proposed budget, and existing data from previous events, if applicable.

Do you help select and build out the right event technology?

Yes, we do! After carefully reviewing the client’s existing tech solutions, goals, and objectives, we research and select the right tech for each event—as every event and program is different and requires different elements and features. Additionally, we build out each platform for our clients, while considering necessary integrations to streamline the experience. Finally, we create the run of show and run at least (1) tech rehearsal before the event with all speakers.

What does “CMP” stand for?

“CMP” stands for Certified Meeting Professional. The accreditation was launched in 1985 by the Events Industry Council to enhance the knowledge and performance of meeting professionals, promote the status and credibility of the meeting profession, and advance uniform standards of practice.

How do you plan for live and hybrid events in the future?

We work with our clients to establish and execute three simultaneous plans for postponed events: Plan A being virtual, Plan B being a hybrid of in-person and virtual options, and, if possible, Plan C being a pivot toward a live event.

We also need help with marketing and PR. Can we count on you for that?

We sure do! We work with the client’s team or independently to develop and execute event marketing strategies, including partnership management, social media, email marketing, public relations, and advertising.

What is Experiential Marketing?

Experiential marketing, aka event marketing, engagement marketing, loyalty marketing, or field marketing is the marketing strategy that directly engages customers and community members in brand-driven events. Examples include pop-up shops and experiential concepts such as Refinery29’s 29 Rooms.

we have a lot of speakers. Can you help us streamline speaker communication?

Speaker communication is one of our favorite parts of the event process! Whether you need individualized communication plans, or view speaker communication as part of your event’s integrated marketing plan, we’ve got you covered.

Do you manage vendor relationships and timelines?

We sure do! We start with selecting event elements and vendors, beginning with the tech itself and encompassing audio-visual and production companies, design companies, silent auction partners, and more. Bids are collected and reviewed with the client. If preferred, we serve as the primary contact for outside vendors in all contract negotiations for services and products associated with the event, ensuring that needs are met and the event stays within budget. If applicable, we will work with venues and vendors to develop cost-saving packages and preferred inclusions.

Can you assist with post-event reporting?

For us, the event is not over after the platform is closed or the final session is complete. Post-event, we use the tools available within the selected platform to create and evaluate post-event reports, which can include attendee engagement data, sponsor interactions, virtual exhibit booth traffic, survey and poll answers, and more.

Didn’t find the answer to your question regarding event planning above? Join us over on our Event Planner Blog for helpful tips, guest blogs, and discussions regarding the state of event planning and learn about the event planning process.