Highlights from an Entrepreneur: Our Exclusive Q&A Session
In celebration of International Women's Day, we had the privilege of speaking with small business owner Yolanda Nelson. As the co-owner of The Nelson Manor and a dedicated educator in Prince George’s County, Yolanda has made a significant impact in both hospitality and education. Her contributions have earned her accolades from industry leaders, and she continues to give back to the community in meaningful ways.
In addition to her work, Yolanda serves on the Board of Directors for the National Concierge Association, Washington, D.C. chapter, where she remains a champion for excellence and service.
Don’t miss our exclusive interview with this inspiring entrepreneur—watch the recording now! Plus, as a special offer, The Nelson Manor is giving our audience 15% off their next stay! Email Yolanda@thenelsonmanor.com and mention code MC15% to take advantage of this exclusive discount.
March 2025 Tips
It's National Procrastination Week and we want to know your strategies for avoiding procrastination. Drop a comment below.
February 2025 Tips
Mobile Apps for Events
Smartphones have become our closest companions and mobile event apps have
emerged as the backstage pass to any successful event. Seventy-eight percent of businesses that use an event application, says that it contributes to a positive event.
Our three favorite mobile apps for conferences are Cvent, Eventbrite, and Whova.
Each app offers unique features that streamline event management, enhance attendee engagement, and simplify networking opportunities.
But first, what is a conference mobile app and what does it do?
A mobile event app transforms the attendee experience. It's a digital guide ready to help navigate everything from bustling conferences to small workshops.
It also allows attendees to easily access the agenda, explore various session topics, and customize their schedules according to their interests. If they're looking for a specific session, the app’s search feature is just a swipe away.
Number 1: Cvent Mobile Event App
Cvent is a powerful event management platform primarily designed for larger events, providing extensive solutions for registration, marketing, and engagement with attendees. With its reliability, broad feature set, and trusted partnership with planners, Cvent enables organizers to optimize the event process.
Pros:
Customizable app to align with event branding
Live polling, Q&A sessions, surveys, and push notifications
Cons:
Cvent solutions can be expensive smaller organizations or events with limited budgets.
Attendees need smartphones and a certain level of comfort with mobile apps
Number 2: Eventbrite
Eventbrite is a mobile app known for its simplicity and effectiveness in managing event registrations and ticket sales. It's an extension of its online services, allowing attendees to access event details, purchase tickets, and receive notifications about upcoming events.
Pros:
Comprehensive support for event organizers
Flexible options for both virtual and in-person events
Cons:
Limited branding customization options
May overwhelm first-time users with its extensive features
Number 3: Whova Mobile Event App
This app encourages engagement building through its community board where attendees can share insights, ask questions, and network before and during the event. This creates an interactive atmosphere that promotes meaningful connections among participants. The strength of the Whova app is its ability to integrate various functionalities seamlessly.
Pros:
Icebreaker tools and attendee profiles make it easier to connect with like-minded individuals.
Supports multiple languages, making it ideal for international events.
Cons:
The features can be overwhelming for first-time organizers or less tech-savvy attendees.
While customizable, some organizers feel restricted by Whova’s templates and design limitations
No matter which mobile app you choose, make sure to perform thorough accessibility checks to ensure that all attendees, regardless of their abilities, can fully access and use the app.
Dec 2024 Tips
Outsource or Hire Within?
Organizations often grapple with the decision, "Should we outsource our events or hire a full-time staff member?" Event planning is an essential aspect of operations, but managing it in-house can be quite challenging. With limited staff and an increasing number of events, collaborating with an external events agency can be a strategic choice to ensure the successful execution of your events.
Here are ten key benefits of outsourcing your event planning to an agency, particularly when dealing with a reduced workforce.
1. Cost-Effectiveness - When you work with an agency, you only pay for the services you need, eliminating concerns about employee benefits, vacation time, and other costs associated with hiring a full-time employee.
2. Access to a Team of Experts - When you hire an event planning agency, you get experienced professionals. They likely have a team with diverse skills that a single planner may not cover as effectively.
3. Increased Efficiency - Your HR manager shouldn't have to be the one planning your annual kickoff meeting. A dedicated team of experts can keep your internal employees focused on their critical tasks while still helping you plan a successful event. No new employee training is needed.
4. Reduced Risk - Professional planners possess expertise in event management, minimizing errors. Outsourcing ensures your events are carefully planned and executed, reducing costly mistakes.
5. Access to Resources - Event planning agencies have established relationships with vendors and suppliers, giving them access to a wide range of resources. They can secure better deals and negotiate for cost savings.
6. Fresh Ideas - An event planning agency brings fresh ideas to the table. They have experience planning a wide range of events and can offer unique and creative ideas that you may not have considered.
7. Scalability -In-house teams may be understaffed, while an outsourced agency can scale as the event increases in size.
8. Reliability - Event planners will manage the event from beginning to end. In-house support can be redirected to more urgent activities.
9. Greater Flexibility - Outside agencies can pivot to any adjusted scope of work, adapt to the needs of the event, and will ensure you are not paying for services you don't need.
10. Increased ROI - If your goal is to generate revenue, an outsourced planner will concentrate on increasing attendance and engagement.
Bottom Line
Outsourcing your event planning to an agency can provide numerous advantages compared to hiring a full-time event planner. Benefits include cost savings, enhanced efficiency, and access to a team of experts. By working with an agency, you can successfully manage your events while freeing up your time and resources to concentrate on other important aspects of your business.
Outsource with Magnolia Creations, LLC
Ready to plan your next event with an events agency that can help you execute successful events at scale? Let's discuss your upcoming plans and see if Magnolia Creations, LLC might be the right fit for you.
Nov - Dec 2024 Tips
Start by planning your spectacular event and send exciting invitations to let your guests know they’re in for a treat!
Decide on the theme, vibe, and dress code of your party and inform your guests on the invite.
Next, you'll want to transform your space with vibrant backdrops, balloons, and fun cardboard stand-ups.
Elevate the experience with patriotic snacks/beverages
anchored by a delectable dinner.
Finally, set the mood with fantastic music, laughter, and don’t forget to include loads of fun games!
Wrap up the night with beloved patriotic movies and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable event!
It's Inauguration Day!
Get ready to celebrate because the president and vice-president have officially been sworn in, and the festivities are just getting started! But before we dive into the fun, let's and kick off your planning journey.
Celebrate the inauguration wholeheartedly with any of the ideas suggested above. If you're not feeling festive, take comfort in the fact that the election process has concluded and commit to giving the next President an opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities.
Campaigning for the next election starts in under three years! :)
Oct-Nov 2024 Tips
Holiday Events
Why plan a holiday party? It helps you and your employees get to know one another. Getting to know your employees as people, not simply as workers, is essential for teams to succeed. Interacting with your employees at a social gathering is an excellent way to accomplish this goal. By listening to your employees interact with one another, with their guests, and with you, you can gain insight to inform how to work best with them in a professional setting.
Check out these ideas
Here are some ways to build engagement and fun for your holiday events.
Final Thoughts
No matter how you decide to celebrate with employees or guests, make the event memorable and fun for all.
Key tip: The holidays can bring sadness amid the festivities. Be kind to those who don't want to participate.