At CVENT’s Global Meetings Industry Day 2025, Rachel Andrews, Global Head of Meetings and Events, shared the biggest event trends shaping how we gather, connect, and grow this year. Here’s what you need to know (and how to stay ahead of the game).
Personalization Is Queen
The one-size-fits-all event? It’s officially canceled. Thanks to technology and AI, personalized experiences at scale are not just possible — they’re expected. From curated agendas to customized communications, attendees want to feel like your event was built just for them. And with the right tools, it can be.
AI Is Your New Event Planning BFF
Beyond personalization, AI is also your ticket to smarter, faster event planning. It’s helping teams streamline productivity, boost efficiency, and collaborate better than ever. If you’re not exploring AI solutions yet, 2025 is the year to get curious.
Data Activation: Start Small, Think Big
Event pros are swimming in data — but turning it into actionable insights? Still a major challenge. Pro tip: Start small. Pick a few key metrics (like attendee satisfaction, which 93.5% of corporate planners prioritize) and build from there. Some popular ones to track include:
- Post-event survey responses (76% are doing this)
- Attendee tracking numbers (72% are doing this)
- Lead generation
- Content performance
- Net Promoter Score (NPS)
- App engagement
- Social media interaction
Don’t stress about tracking everything at once. Focus on the metrics that matter most to your business goals.
ROR: Return on Relationships
Forget just measuring dollars — it’s time to measure connections.
Building and nurturing relationships with your attendees creates serious long-term value. To maximize your Return on Relationships (ROR):
- Collect feedback before, during, and after your event
- Keep the conversation going post-event
- Foster genuine engagement, not just transactions
Field Marketing Events Are on the Rise
Smaller, localized field events are growing fast — and for good reason. They’re easier to personalize, foster stronger relationships, and keep the momentum going year-round (helping you build that ROR!). Heads up, though: Scaling lots of smaller events can overwhelm your team if you’re not prepared. Self-serve tools and smart automation are your best friends here.
Event Content = Marketing Gold
Stop letting your incredible event content fade away once the lights go down. In 2025, savvy marketers are stretching their event content across year-round campaigns. Think:
- Repurposing sessions into webinars
- Using on-site speakers for podcasts
- Hosting VIP networking sessions after the event
Work smarter, not harder — and get way more mileage out of your events.
Unique Venues Are Stealing the Show
Say goodbye to cookie-cutter ballrooms. Attendees are craving unique, flexible, and affordable venues in new places — and the market is responding with:
- Creative spaces with visual appeal
- Flexible pricing models
- Tailored experiences that traditional hotels can’t always match
- A wider variety of options for every vibe and budget
- New travel destinations offering a wide variety of tourist attractions and experiences
If you want to wow your guests, think outside the conference center.
Accessibility Is Non-Negotiable
Over 1 billion people globally live with some form of disability, and accessibility laws are evolving fast.
Your attendees expect events that are inclusive and accessible. That means:
- Providing accessible room diagrams
- Tailoring visuals, audio, and reading materials
- Asking attendees directly what they need to feel more comfortable
When you design for accessibility, you design for everyone.
Data Privacy Is Getting Serious
New year, new privacy standards. Hotels, venues, and event pros are stepping up their efforts to protect attendee data — and you should too. Stay compliant, be transparent, and safeguard your attendees’ trust like it’s the VIP it is.
Ready to Crush These Event Trends in 2025?
Staying ahead of these trends isn’t just smart — it’s essential for creating unforgettable, impactful experiences.
Need help bringing your next big idea to life? Let’s chat!
Catch up with event tech trends to make your next event out of this world!
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