Q.  We have a conference contracted and planned for March of 2021. During normal times, we’d expect about 300 attendees. It’s out of New York City but our members are already communicating about fear of travelling and what it’s going to be like in 6 months. Do you think we can begin postponement talks this early? I know that our volunteer leaders would sure be happy to know now that they’re planning for a virtual event

A.  Absolutely. Whatever is in the best interest of the organization and the members is the direction you should take. Work with your venue to rebook for a future date (postpone later in the year or rebook for the following year at the same time). For planning your virtual option, first redesign the agenda to better suit an online/digital experience, then develop a needs assessment before you go shopping for a virtual platform. Not all virtual platforms are the same both from a function and pricing stand point. If you need further counsel feel free to reach out to your staff at Kellen.

Phelps Hope, SVP, Meetings & Expositions, Kellen