Welcome to Best.Day.Ever.’s “Ask Me Anything” style blog, where I am recapping our two most recent client engagement events. Who am I? Maci McShan, nice to meet y’all! I am an Account Executive here at Best.Day.Ever., and I just might be the secret weapon to your next great event…
A little background on my expertise: I am a Houston, Texas native with a passion for storytelling. You may be asking, “How does that tie into event planning?” My biggest asset is my ability to recognize the story the client wants to tell, whether that’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience bringing together industry leaders or an intimate outing with deserving employees. I have a keen sense for developing innovative ideas that engage, writing copy that intrigues, and delivering events that move the needle.
I’m thrilled to share the highlights of Jellyfish’s thought leadership culinary experience in Washington DC and NRG’s customer and strategic channel partner golf invitational in Dallas, TX. Both events were a fantastic blend of networking, collaboration, and memories made!
Q1 — How did you ensure meaningful networking and collaboration at both events?
At Jellyfish’s thought leadership dinner, our aim was to bring together prominent software engineer industry leaders in an intimate setting. I thought a great way to engage guests casually as they arrive and check in was with a patio networking reception. Guests had the chance to exchange stories, insights, and ideas fostering valuable industry connections over Jellyfish-branded custom cocktails. They could then continue these stimulating conversations through the multiple-course dinner, featuring a branded conversation menu to drive discussion around relevant topics.
Similarly, at NRG’s golf invitational, we wanted to facilitate networking opportunities between NRG’s top executives and their VIP clients. To accomplish this, we incorporated a casual yet impactful networking atmosphere, allowing guests to bond over a friendly game of golf while building professional relationships.
Essentially, I believe a truly personable setting allows for intimate business conversations between colleagues in a zero-pressure environment. This is your key for success!
Q2 — How did you incorporate your clients’ brand identity into the events?
For both events, maintaining brand consistency and incorporating branded touchpoints throughout was key. At the DC dinner, every detail reflected Jellyfish’s branding, from custom cocktail creations to branded menus and napkins. At any given moment, the guest could be seen with a branded touchpoint.
Meanwhile, NRG’s golf tournament featured exclusive Fields Ranch merchandise and branded giveaways, reinforcing NRG’s dedication to utilizing innovative experiences and gifting to show appreciation for their stakeholders.
My goal is always to work alongside you to understand your business goals, and establish branded touchpoints that reflect those initiatives, whether incentivizing attendance or creating on-site touchpoints that reflect your company’s commitment to excellence.
Q3 — What were some memorable highlights from the dining experiences at these events?
At Jellyfish’s dinner, guests savored a multiple-course meal curated by renowned chefs, expertly paired with wines for a delectable culinary experience. In my opinion, that take-home tiramisu was truly unforgettable and served as an excellent “surprise and delight”.
On the other hand, NRG’s guests enjoyed a mouthwatering Tex-Mex bar and house-made brisket station. As a native Texan, you already know my opinion on this meal!
Both catered to diverse culinary preferences and ensured a memorable dining experience. My tip? Menu selections should reflect the market location of your event to truly immerse your guests in the experience.
Q4 — How did you tackle challenges and ensure a seamless event experience?
Both events presented their own set of challenges, but through meticulous planning and organizational skills, challenges can become opportunities. Leveraging the expertise of our talented event staff, we ensure that every aspect of the event — such as registration, take-home gifts, onsite engagement, and post-event breadcrumbs — are executed with precision, leaving attendees with cherished memories, and strengthened professional relationships without the hassle.
I know you want the specifics, so I’ll give our loyal subscribers an inside scoop — managing headcount is always a moving target. You can invite twenty guests, but may not know the actual turnout until day of, and the last thing you want is a room feeling empty. Consistent communication with guests helps limit the impact of attrition, but through research of past field events, plan on anywhere from 15 – 25% of RSVPs not showing up for one reason or another. Of course with the caveat that you keep a backup plan in case of full attendance.
Q5 — What’s next after the success of these events?
The success of these events has only fueled my excitement for future endeavors! Best.Day.Ever. is committed to building off the connections made and the positive impressions left by these gatherings. Whether it’s hosting a series of these field events for Jellyfish, or organizing another thrilling customer event for NRG, we’re dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences that resonate with our audience long after the event concludes.