What does a ‘Hybrid Event’ mean?
A Hybrid event is defined as “A tradeshow, conference, un-conference, seminar, workshop or other meeting that combines a live in-person event with a virtual online component”. - Wikipedia
While this definition is true, a Hybrid event has come to encompass so much more than just a Live event with a side salad of online components. Here’s what we think a more accurate definition of a Hybrid event could be:
“Hybrid events offer the best of both Live and Virtual events. They focus on the engaging and interactive experiences of an in-person event with the ability and convenience to reach unlimited attendees virtually.” - Bash Creative
Hybrid events are the true event format of the future!
Demonstrated success, flexibility, interactivity, location, creativity, and cost are all driving factors that push Hybrid events to the top of the list for clients. While we race to move past the COVID era, we find ourselves in a unique position considering the ROI from a Hybrid event vs purely Live or purely Virtual. That’s right, we have now witnessed a shift in the industry and businesses are attentive and planning accordingly. There will be a mixture of all styles of events throughout 2022 (and most likely for years to come) as Live, Hybrid, and Virtual events all have their place in the industry and serve a multitude of clientele and their budgets.
Do Hybrid events offer any benefits?
Hybrid events do offer a wide array of benefits over traditional live or virtual events. With COVID implications still very active in today’s society and different mandates pending by city, the Hybrid event is here to stay. We see great benefits additionally with flexibility and on-demand viewing, a more global reach, and convenience for the viewer, to name a few. Hybrid events are also more inclusive because they offer opportunities to remove barriers. Subtitles in different languages and for those with hearing challenges have become second nature to Virtual/Hybrid events. Inclusivity and Interaction are at the top of every brand's goals, and should be considered staples within the event planning process moving forward. Check out our post from last year with additional ways to be inclusive virtually, HERE.
What about the challenges of Hybrid events?
Hybrid events don’t come without challenges. Marketing, platforms, remote attendees, providing technology for remote presenters, pre-recording, and assuring creative aligns across all areas are not simple tasks for any planner.
Creating an equally inclusive, engaging, and memorable event experience for all attendees whether in-person or virtual is also top of mind. By incorporating Hybrid event best practices into your planning process and working with an experienced event production company, such as Bash Creative, you will eliminate variables you didn’t see coming.
Creating your Hybrid plan
Live and virtual events have their pros and cons, but Hybrid offers a unique experience and will drive clients to remain in this format for the foreseeable future. When you are creating your event plan, there are three top drivers to keep in mind.
Vision / Creative
Bring your vision to life by incorporating your creative throughout all of the areas, assuring each is aligned with the brand.
Connection / Inclusivity
More than ever, attendees want to be immersed and engaged. Take this to the next level with interactivity.
Platform / Experience
Each platform has its own idiosyncrasies, strengths, and weaknesses. Select a platform that provides versatility and strength to your event. Be vigilant in aligning the platform to your event needs, not the other way around.
Throughout the process, plan accordingly, tap into the brand creative, assure timelines are set and dialed in, hire or develop a strong team to support you, and then rehearse, rehearse, rehearse!
If a Hybrid event is an area you want to explore, or you already know this is an area where you would like more assistance, book an introductory call today!
What can you expect from Bash Creative as your event partner?
Bold & Scalable Solutions
Creative Designs that enhance your brand within the event
Top level support from concept to reality
Design aesthetic that molds creatively with your event brand guidelines
Experienced creative direction
An amazing team behind you from start to finish setting you up for event success
End to end to end technical guidance
At Bash Creative, we understand the intimate details of a successful Hybrid event. Our clients value our creativity and we strive to provide the best overall experience possible within the event industry. Afterall, Creative is in our name. Please reach out directly to continue the conversation. We would love to hear from you!
Bash Creative is an event planning company that specializes in incredible gatherings that go beyond just great design. We’re known for teasing out smart goals for your event and serve up a stylish execution that will keep your guests buzzing. Located in San Francisco, but often found in New York, Austin, Chicago, Seattle, and beyond.