Event planners are gearing up for a very busy in-person event year. Learn how to enhance brand and attendee engagement with exciting event graphics.
In-person events are back! An article by Ken Sterling, Executive Vice President of the BigSpeak speakers bureau in Inc magazine, predicts that with COVID on the wane, the events industry is about to take off in 2022. He expects it will be the busiest year in event history.
Data bears that out. The Global Recovery Insights 2021 Report found that 45% of the event exhibitors surveyed anticipated that their budgets would return to normal by the end of 2022, and 62% said they plan to attend events in person. As for event planners, a study by the Northstar Meetings Group found that 96% of the planners surveyed are planning an in-person event this year.
The future is bright for the events industry, but there are trends to consider when planning your event graphics. Here are a few.
A New Normal
While it's exciting to plan in-person events again, it is a new era for events. These last two years have prompted new ways to plan events that will forever change the industry. For example, it is unlikely that virtual events will go away entirely, and many events will become hybrid, offering both virtual and in-person options. Attendees will likely expect extra hygiene and cleaning protocols at large events. We can also anticipate many new professionals in the role of event planner since the pandemic caused so much disruption in the sector. You may need to build crucial working relationships from scratch.
New Timelines
These factors will impact event planning in 2022 and beyond, which makes now a good time to reevaluate your planning process. A change in your team (or vendors) can mean a change in timelines, so you’ll want to review and confirm all due dates and delivery dates. We also suggest you bring in your design and print vendors as early as possible, even if your plans are still in flux. A good partner will be able to identify ideas or projects that may not work for your timeline or event. It's better to address those barriers to success early.
New Shipping and Supply Issues
We've discussed delays with raw materials and other necessities from overseas in a previous post. These delays can certainly affect your event graphics. Our preferred provider FedEx is being more stringent on their size restrictions and pickup limitations. Despite investing in 21 new terminals across the country, FedEx has been unable to fully staff operations due to labor shortages. Additionally, a driver shortage is causing shipping delays all over the country.
Phase 3 has the advantage of operating complete printing and finishing services in our production facilities in Atlanta, Dallas, and Fairfield, N.J. Because of these three locations, we can provide the capacity and geographic reach to create exactly what you need, at any size or quantity. We can also choose the best shipping solution based on location so that your event graphics arrive on time.
New Ideas
While many event producers will be focusing on integrating virtual elements into a traditional event, we suggest that event planners spend time brainstorming new interactive and value-added in-person elements. For example, do you need branded hand sanitizer stands or handwashing sinks? Should you print your event graphics on or with recyclable materials? Should you add more way-finding signage or floor event graphics to keep attendees farther apart? If your event is inside, should you plan for outside locations with branded tents or activities?
The benefit of working with a company like Phase 3 is that we've done and seen it all. Our expert team will collaborate with you to transform your vision into an extraordinary event experience that immerses your attendees in your brand.
Phase 3 is the Right Choice
In this new and exciting event world, it is critical to work with partners who understand your vision and have the experience to make it real. Our in-house event expert Frank Misischia, Vice President of National and Strategic Accounts, specializes in complex and time-sensitive event projects. His team has helped coordinate and execute high-profile nationwide rollouts, events, and installations for retailers, beverage brands, and sports franchises.
"Every space is a blank canvas. It's about finding out ways to brand it." - Frank Misischia
At Phase 3 our approach to the blank canvas is unique. Our consultative process helps clients deliver dynamic event graphics that put your brand top of mind during your event. With event experience and knowledge of current print technology, the team will highlight your vision with graphics that make your event feel fresh and engaging. Then, our innovative print technology, advanced fulfillment, and professional installation will bring your vision to light at the right time and place.
Our three production facilities can print small- and large-format digital, fabric printing, and variable data printing. These event graphic elements include:
- Environmental Graphics
- Posters & Banners
- Sales Kits
- Trade Show Graphics
- Removable Custom Wallpaper
- Draping and tablecloths
- Vehicle Graphics
- Wayfinding
- Window Graphics
- Indoor / Outdoor Signage
Your event graphic package will be shipped to your event location and professionally installed. At Phase 3, we are connected to a hand-picked national network of installers. No matter the location, complexity, or size, your event graphics will be ready to show on opening day.
The world has changed in the last two years. But one thing is certain, we are all craving human interaction. Our work as event planners has never been so crucial. Phase 3 is here to assist in creating the best immersive brand experience that engages attendees in new and exciting ways. Contact our expert event graphics team for more information.
Let's get started. Contact us today.