Even when you’re on vacation, you’re still a planner at heart.

And sometimes, the best event inspiration comes when you’re not at a conference at all.

This summer, pay attention to how it feels to be the guest. From the moment you check into a hotel to the little details that leave a lasting impression, there are plenty of lessons to bring home with you.

Here are a few worth noting:

✦ The Power of a Thoughtful Welcome

A chilled towel, a handwritten note, or even a friendly smile at the front desk—small gestures set the tone. Think about the first five minutes of your attendee experience. What’s the emotional impression you want to create?

✦ Seamless = Memorable

When things “just work,” people notice. Clear signage, mobile check-in, and on-demand transportation—it’s often the behind-the-scenes logistics that create a feeling of ease. Consider where your event could reduce friction or confusion.

✦ Hospitality Is Personal

As guests, we remember people who made us feel seen. A staff member remembering your name, a server who made a thoughtful recommendation—it’s human connection that makes a difference. Is your event staff empowered to do the same?

✦ Experiences Over Extras

What makes a moment feel special? It’s not always the big splash—it’s the well-chosen details: a local tasting, a surprise sunset toast, a quiet lounge space to decompress. One or two curated touches can elevate the entire event experience.

✦ Reflection Is a Feedback Tool

When you’re traveling, you’re collecting your own version of a post-event survey—without even realizing it. What delighted you? What made you feel welcome? What would you change?

Even when you’re off the clock, you’re collecting inspiration. Let your guest experiences fuel your next great event.

PRO TIP:
🌟 Keep a “Guest Journal” while traveling. Jot down standout details (good and bad!) from your experiences. When planning season picks up again, you’ll have a goldmine of fresh ideas ready to go.

Great insights start with thoughtful questions.

How well did your event meet attendee expectations? Don’t guess—ask. Surveys are essential tools to evaluate performance and unlock insights for future planning.

Platforms like SurveyMonkey and SmartSurvey make it easy to craft questions that yield real value.
Focus your survey on core areas like:

• Session content and speaker quality
• Networking opportunities
• Logistics and venue satisfaction
• Accommodation and travel experience

Be sure to include open-ended questions to understand the “why” behind the responses. What did attendees like or dislike? Was there a standout moment—or a recurring pain point?

Keep the survey concise and purposeful. Consider segmenting responses by attendee type or role to spot patterns across different audience groups.

PRO TIP:
📊 Keep it short & mobile-friendly.
Limit your survey to 8–10 questions max—ideally something that takes 2 minutes or less to complete on a phone. You’ll get more responses and higher-quality data.

Insight starts with inquiry—so make your survey count.

Feedback is only powerful when it leads to action.

Surveys are only half the battle—what you do with the responses is what drives meaningful change.

Start by categorizing your feedback. Combine quantitative data (ratings, scores) with qualitative input (open comments) and segment by attendee type to better understand different perspectives.

Then, analyze for patterns:

• What consistently earned praise?
• Where did you fall short?
• Are there repeat issues year over year?

Once analyzed, share the findings internally and develop an action plan. Whether it’s improving signage, adding more networking breaks, or refining content tracks—turn insight into improvement.

Importantly, don’t stop there. Implement changes, then follow up with your next audience to evaluate whether those efforts made a difference.

PRO TIP: Tag and categorize open-ended responses.
Use attendee type, session attended, or job title to group feedback. You’ll uncover patterns faster—and make improvements that actually matter to your audience.

Let feedback become the fuel for smarter, more successful events.

Getting through airport security doesn’t have to be a stressful part of your trip. With just a few mindful moves—and the latest updates from the TSA—you can breeze through the checkpoint and get on with your journey.
Here’s what you need to know for smoother travel this season:

Dress the Part

Avoid clothing that will trigger metal detectors, like steel-toe shoes, excessive jewelry, or belts with large metal buckles. Opt for slip-on shoes to speed up the process and reduce time fumbling post-scan.

Know What’s in Your Bag

Empty your pockets before getting in line and double-check your carry-on. Common problem items include:

• Oversized liquids
• Power banks or vape pens (which must be in carry-ons, not checked luggage)
• Unlabeled food items that may get flagged

Arrive Early & Be Ready

• The TSA recommends arriving at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours for international.
• Have your Real ID (now required in most U.S. airports) or passport ready.
• Finish your water bottle before getting in line or use a refillable one for post-security hydration.

Listen & Adapt

TSA procedures can vary by airport. Some may still require removing shoes, laptops, or batteries,others may not, especially in PreCheck lanes or locations with upgraded CT scanners. Stay alert to signage and agent instructions.

Keep the Line Moving

After the scan, quickly gather your items and move to the bench area to reassemble. Don’t block the line, help keep the flow going by returning your bin and finishing up off to the side.

New for 2025: TSA Tech & Rules Update

• Keep Your Shoes On: The TSA has recently implemented a new policy allowing passengers to keep their shoes on during security screenings at US airports. 
• CT Scanner Expansion: More airports now use Computed Tomography (CT) scanners, allowing laptops and electronics to stay in bags.
• Touchless ID Scanners: TSA is expanding use of facial recognition and digital ID verification is available at select airports via the TSA app and supported mobile wallets.
• Real ID Enforcement: The May 7, 2025, deadline has arrived. Remember that a Real ID-compliant license or valid passport will be required for domestic air travel. Check your state’s status now.

Master’s Tip

Apply for TSA PreCheck or CLEAR to cut down wait times dramatically. The enrollment process is quick, and once approved, you’ll enjoy shorter lines, no need to remove shoes or belts, and faster security clearance every time you fly.

This summer, whether you’re flying, riding, or driving, a little preparation goes a long way. Here’s your quick-start guide to navigating planes, trains, and automobiles with confidence and ease.

Planes: Pack Light, Travel Smart.

Skip the stress (and the baggage fees) by shipping your luggage ahead of time—it’s often comparable in price if you do your homework. Even better, avoid overhead bin space battles entirely by packing an under-seat bag no larger than 15” x 8”. Stick to versatile clothing, consolidate your tech gear, and save shopping space for duty-free souvenirs, which won’t count against your carry-on limits.

Trains: The Future Is on Track.

High-speed travel is getting a serious upgrade. Amtrak’s AIRO fleet, rolling out in 2026 across 12 major lines, promises a sleek experience: panoramic windows, spacious seating, AI-enhanced visual messaging, color-coded cabins, greater accessibility, contemporary food options, and 5G WiFi. Whether you’re on the Northeast Regional, Cascades, or Vermonter, this is train travel reimagined.

Automobiles: Safety First on the Highways.

With more drivers on the road, safety matters more than ever,especially for roadside responders. Tow truck operators are considered first responders too, and distracted, speeding drivers pose serious risks. If you see emergency or breakdown activity, slow down and move over. It’s more than courteous—it saves lives.

Master’s Tip: Build in Buffer Time.

Whether flying, driving, or taking a train, delays are a common part of modern travel. Extra time lets you adjust calmly, pivot when needed, and stay present for the journey, not just the destination.

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Jo Ann Hoffman

The ConventionPlanit.com staff is saddened by the passing of  former colleague, Jo Ann Hoffman, Regional Director of Sales, 2018 – 2024 – a trailblazer in the meetings and hospitality industry.  

Jo Ann Hoffman will be greatly missed by her many friends and colleagues. As a role model, her contribution to women in golf is unparalleled. On behalf of our team, JoAnn will be forever remembered for her many accomplishments, loyal friendship and unique spirit.

Katherine S. Markham, Co-founder, ConventionPlanit.com   

The meetings and hospitality industry lost a cherished leader, mentor, and friend with the recent passing of Jo Ann Hoffman.

Her legacy is one of passion, progress, and unwavering dedication to our profession.Jo Ann began her career in 1969 and quickly became a trusted name in hotel sales, association management, and event planning. Her journey in association work started in 1976 at the American College of Cardiology, with later roles at the American Association of Blood Banks and Experient. In each role, she was known for her innovative spirit, strategic insight, and ability to elevate the industry standards.

Jo Ann’s volunteerism was extraordinary. She served as President of the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) and spent eight years on the board of directors, including four on the PCMA Education Foundation Board. She also chaired numerous committees, authored thought leadership pieces, and contributed to annual conference programming. Her impact was far-reaching and deeply felt by those who had the privilege to work alongside her.

Beyond boardrooms and ballrooms, Jo Ann was a champion for inclusion and empowerment. She developed and led the Women’s Golf Experience for GWSAE, opening the door for women to embrace golf as a career asset and networking tool. She was also instrumental in founding The Meeting Industry Ladies Organization (MILO)—a community built on support and connection.

Her contributions extended to advisory boards for industry organizations like the Monterey County CVB, Corporate Meetings and Incentive Magazine, the Executive Women’s Golf Association (EWGA), and partnerships with the LPGA, USGA, and PGA professionals.

In July 2000, Meeting News named her one of the “25 Most Influential People in the Meeting Industry,” a well-deserved honor for someone whose influence shaped generations of professionals. Jo Ann was also featured in Corporate Meetings & Incentives, MPI Magazine, and Association Management Magazine.

Jo Ann leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire. She was a force of nature—fierce in her advocacy, gracious in her mentorship, and generous in her leadership. Her wisdom, laughter, and light will be missed but never forgotten.

We extend our deepest sympathies to her family, friends, and colleagues.

Bleisure—where business meets leisure—isn’t just a passing trend. It’s a shift in how people travel, engage, and choose which events to attend.
According to the American Hotel & Lodging Association, 67% of Millennials add vacation time to the conferences they attend. That means today’s meeting professionals aren’t just planning for breakout sessions and keynote speakers—they’re factoring in poolside cabanas, spa days, and nearby adventure.

And it’s not just Millennials:
–> 79% of attendees say they’re more likely to volunteer for a business trip if they can extend it for leisure.
–> 60% of long-haul business trips now include vacation time.
–> 41% of corporate travel managers report a rise in requests for extended stays that mix work with personal time.
So what does this mean for planners?

Destination Matters (More Than Ever)

Think beyond the convention center. Select destinations with vacation appeal—scenic settings, vibrant food scenes, unique attractions, or luxury leisure amenities.

Partner with Hotels That “Get It”

Work with properties that offer extended-stay rates, late checkout, and family-friendly packages. Bonus points if they have pre-built bleisure packages to make your life easier.

Market the Experience, Not Just the Agenda

Include “come early, stay late” messaging in your promotions. Highlight local attractions, resort features, and ways attendees can turn their work trip into a mini-getaway.

Design a Bleisure Toolkit

Provide optional itineraries or maps of must-see spots. Offer travel discounts or suggested pre/post-event excursions.

The Bottom Line

When attendees blend business with leisure, they’re more likely to register, stay engaged, and leave satisfied. As a planner, embracing the bleisure boost doesn’t just elevate your event—it enhances your ROI.

Let’s face it—no one registers for a conference excited about the check-in line.

It’s often the first in-person impression of your event, and too often, it’s… underwhelming. But with a few smart moves, you can make registration smooth, welcoming, and surprisingly fun.
Here’s how:

Make Check-In Effortless

Encourage attendees to download the event app before arrival and attach a personalized QR code to their confirmation email. That code becomes their VIP pass—scannable at the door for instant check-in.

Pro Tip: Pre-event emails should include reminders and clear instructions to download the app. Add a “skip the line” incentive to drive adoption.

Staff for Service, Not Just Speed

Efficiency is great, but don’t overlook human interaction. Friendly, well-informed staff should be ready to answer questions, offer directions, or just say “we’re glad you’re here.” A little warmth goes a long way.

Gamify the Experience

Turn registration into a mini adventure. Hide QR codes at different “stations” within the registration area. When attendees scan them, they earn points on their event profile—redeemable for giveaways, VIP seating, or drink tickets.

Station Ideas & Points:

• Welcome Desk – 50 points
• Name Badge Station – 75 points
• Swag Collection Point – 100 points
• Networking Lounge – 150 points
• Mystery Station – 200 points!
You’ll not only keep the energy up—you’ll also drive early engagement with your event layout, key sponsor zones, and networking areas.

Why it Matters

• Registration is more than a transaction—it’s a first impression.
• Make it seamless, make it interactive, and above all, make it memorable.
• When attendees feel welcomed from the start, the whole event benefits.