1 Positive Predi As we wind down 2024 and prepare ourselves for 2025, it’s time for our annual Positive Predictions. This forecast checks in with select industry professionals to see what good things might be in store for the upcoming year. This tradition started in 2020, with event leaders seeking hope in difficult times. This year feels no different—with politics, economy, and staffing concerns, we are once again looking for a kernel of hope. We asked several event pros what they think the new year holds. Here is a bit of what they predict—read the full version at specialevents.com. — Amanda Nicklaus Amanda Lincoln, CMP, CSEP Senior Manager of Private Events, International Spy Museum Over the last few years, we’ve seen lead times drop drastically for many events, especially in the corporate market. What used to have a three-to-six- in our small-business industry, it also quietly drives competition and ultimately, excellence. Colja Dams CEO, VOK DAMS Amanda Lincoln
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2025 will be the best year for events. Studies show that corporate events budgets will rise. The reason? Only live experiences create unforgettable ‘Wow- Moments’ and real human connections. Live events deliver powerful, emotional experiences. As generic content floods the world, real-life interactions matter more. They bring authenticity and a sense of community. People want real, memorable connections. JC York The events industry has experienced a strong recovery in 2024, with positive signs continuing into 2025. Event bookings have surged, and there’s been an uptick in early contracts, with many holiday events secured by mid-summer. This indicates growing confidence in the market. Another promising trend is the return of last-minute event requests, which, although challenging, suggest that clients are once again willing to invest in enhancing their events and making them more memorable. This shift shows that clients are eager to take their events to the next level, signaling renewed optimism and creativity in the industry. President/Owner, Classic Entertainment/Wise Guys InterACTive
2 month lead time might now only have a three-to-four-week lead time. With this trend continuing into 2025, we should consider this the new industry standard and work with it. Chris Weinberg Lead Wedding & Event Producer/ Founder/Chief Experience Officer, Chris Weinberg Events In 2025, luxury events will center on deeply personalized experiences that tell each client’s unique story, with design elements, entertainment, and interactive installations crafted to evoke emotion and meaning. Sustainability has become a necessity, with eco- conscious planning like local, seasonal catering and green certifications highly valued. Technology, including AI, AR, and VR, will further enhance guest interaction, adding sophistication when implemented thoughtfully. Colbert Callen Sales & Marketing Director, Footers Catering Many anticipate that economic uncertainty will lead to corporate and individual spending pullback over the next year. While this understandably sparks fear from a revenue perspective 3
Chris Weinberg
Colbert Callen
Colja Dams
JC York
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SPECIAL EVENTS FALL 2024 SPECIAL EVENTS WINTER 2024
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