By Jeffery Kin
I’m constantly amazed when people are surprised by the existence of a conference like this, or that it is worth the time and travel. In this day and age, with technology rapidly advancing in our lives, the need for a festival and events conference seems more important than ever.
This was one of my first actual conventions and it was run SO WELL. It seemed like every detail was managed by a professional—because IT WAS! How incredible to see a professional group of festival presenters planning and managing a Festival conference. It was perfection! And every day there was more to learn from industry professionals.
Some of my main take aways? The planning, implementation and fulfillment of SPONSORSHIPS. Green Cactus, all the way from Washington State, made an incredible presentation. I even bought the manual that has examples and worksheets to create your own manicured sponsor packet. A GREAT company I fell in love with was INVENTNY. These folks have taken the dozens of loose sheets of organizational paperwork and put it all into an easy-to-manage website that will, in the long run, connect directly with OUR website. They help you save time and spare you from aggravation by helping you manage volunteers, make vendor contracts and build a site map…just a few of the services they offer.
I was blessed to meet and engage with dozens of helpful and seasoned F and E members that were incredibly welcoming to the new kid! This was money and time well spent!