I don’t know about you, but my day planner has been glammed up with my glitter pen for next week. I’m heading to Toronto for my favourite show of the year!
It’s right around the corner – the Canadian Meetings + Events Expo (CMEE) happening on August 15-16 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
Now, I know what some of you might be thinking. “It’s just another industry trade show – why should I bother?” I wouldn’t blame you; it can be exhausting hopping from one industry show to another, but let’s dive into why this show is a can’t-miss for me every year.
I love to meet new people.
I love to learn.
I’m also about saving time and getting ROI on every single second of my day.
And CMEE answers it all, with:
- Cutting-edge education on the redesigned bb Blanc Theatre.
- Never-before-seen (or tasted) activations that will leave you feeling energized and creative.
- And a Spotlight On… some of the best-kept-secrets in our industry!
Don’t forget the ROI
If you’ve ever found yourself overwhelmed with the task of connecting with hotels, destinations, and other service partners, then consider CMEE your sanctuary. The show is designed to save planners time, energy, and probably a few strands of hair by offering partners and resources that make your job easier, and dare I say, even a bit more glamorous.
And the networking
Imagine getting to meet everyone you need to, learn about the latest trends, and maybe even catch up on some industry gossip – all in one place! It’s like the Netflix binge-watch of the event world. No more hopping from one meeting to another when you can have all the action under one roof.
iStock: Wavebreakmedia
Now if you think industry trade shows are as pointless as a chocolate teapot, let me spill some tea for you. (See what I did there?) The true value of these trade shows lies in the spontaneous, unplanned connections you make on the show floor. You know, the kind where you bond over a shared love for quirky centrepieces or that weirdly specific shade of LinkedIn blue?
So, if I still haven’t convinced you, here are the top 3 reasons why you should absolutely, definitely, without a doubt attend CMEE next week:
- Networking nirvana: Where else can you bump into everyone you’ve ever wanted to meet in the industry, all while juggling a canapé in one hand and a business card in the other? Don’t forget to set off the week on a high-note at the Reveal party on Monday night!
- Trendspotting: Before you even hear about them on the ‘Gram, you’ll be in the know. Yes, you my friend can be the trendsetter! Plan to hit up the activations to experience it all!
- All-things-for-Canadians: Experience the nuances of our great country (and beyond) in the meetings and events industry that will empower our maple-syrup-lovin’ planners to expand their skillsets and creativity.
Still struggling with WIIFM (What’s in It For Me?), consider setting some goals and engineer your own ROI:
- Connect with at least 10 new faces: Coming back post-pandemic, everyone is “new” and I mean everyone. Challenge yourself to update your rolodex and add some new connections to your LinkedIn network. It’s like speed dating but less awkward.
- Attend at least three presentations: Knowledge is power, and power can be fun. Come learn from SME’s like Anna Olson, Shaun Boothe, Kwame Osei, Mohit Rajans, Savio Joseph and Stephen Shedletzky. Catch up with industry leaders like Tami Adams, Laura Palotta, Laura Bickle, Mark Awad, Melaya Horsten, Victoria Clarke, Kelly Power and Natalie Ciarallo
- Collect memories (and business cards): Set some appointments with the exhibitors, enjoy their activations, and take note of how the partner can help you create and execute unforgettable meetings and events.
Will I see you at CMEE? Let’s be intentional and connect (you can add my business card to your ROI bucket)!
To seeing you soon,
Leanne
Leanne Calderwood, CMP, is a branding and LinkedIn trainer for the meetings, events, and hospitality industry. She believes our industry is built on experiences, and that experience should start with our professionals. She serves hospitality professionals and teams through her online courses and consulting services to help guide #eventprofs out of the shadows and into the spotlight using their branding strengths and stories. When she’s not talking shop, you can find Leanne drinking tea, making jam, and gardening at her home in Kelowna, B.C. with her husband, two teenage sons, and her dog, Farls Barkley. You can learn more about Leanne over on her blog at www.leannecalderwood.com.
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