Another Virtual Summer for Corporate Groups Things are looking better each day for getting back together in-person! But, we are not quite there yet…  Most corporate groups continue to plan for virtual or hybrid programs throughout the summer. It is encouraging to see companies starting to rebuild after major downsizing and restructuring last year — now is the […]

We Want to Network! It has been sooo long since we could shake hands, pat each other on the back, and network in person. Are we losing touch? Or are we more connected than ever? With social media at our fingertips, however, it is relatively simple to find friends and colleagues. Getting to know new […]

Enhancing Virtual Meetings and Incentive Trips Planners are getting creative when it comes to presenting exciting entertainment for virtual destination meetings and incentive trips. After all, what can compare to actually spending a week in Costa Rica or Italy? How about tasting wines from around the world or a hands-on cooking class with a celebrity […]

Values, Purpose, and Passion In this turbulent time it is easy to get swept up in the rhetoric of politics, covid, vaccines, violence, depression and more. It takes enormous effort to look beyond this and focus on what is really important — our values, purpose and passion. I am grateful to be part of a […]

Goodbye 2020 – Hello 2021! Hello Everyone,   It has undoubtedly been a devastating year. As we reflect on the challenges we’ve witnessed within our industry, our community and our personal lives, we all feel the pain – and, at the same time, we (must) embrace the change. 2021 is within reach and already filled with hope […]

Celebrate Virtually Virtual holiday parties and year-end celebrations are happening! Employees, colleagues, members, students and families still want – or need – to connect and celebrate. Show appreciation and let everyone know that they are a valuable part of the organization. Messages, calls or cards go a long way! And, there are many options for […]

Virtual Holiday Team Experiences Hello Everyone,It’s hard to believe we’re already midway through October, and quickly transitioning into the Holiday season.Our celebrations will certainly be different this year as companies and families gather virtually or in small groups. And, though we may not be able to break bread in person, we can still enjoy the […]

Introducing iQuiz/iQuest CVB Hello Everyone,Suddenly it’s September! Is it much different than April? Students are logging in to remote classes, trade shows have simulated exhibits, conferences choose from a variety of platforms to best present their educational sessions, corporate groups search for new experiences and the virtual craze continues.With an eye on 2021, we are […]

Introducing Chicago Association Management Hello Everyone,This month, I’d like to introduce you to CEI’s sister company, Chicago Association Management. CAM was founded in 2010 as a natural extension of Corporate Event Enterprises and offers a full range of professional management services to small and mid-sized professional and trade organizations.Ed Graziano (my business partner for 25 […]

Corporate Groups Earnestly Embrace Change Hello Everyone,For most corporate groups, it appears that we may be interacting remotely for a bit longer. Kudos to planners who are finding new platforms, programs, and partners to produce their virtual experiences. Who knew we would all become tech experts overnight? Check out the  BizBash Virtual Event Guide – an excellent source […]

From the Expert Summer! Undoubtedly the favorite season for Chicagoans as everyone gets outside to play. Even with social distancing in place, being outside is a great stress-reliever and can provide mental clarity after being shut in place for so long.  Innovative activities and programs are popping up all over – yoga in the (virtual) park, online concerts, farmers markets, drive-in […]

From the Expert Hello Everyone!For many of us, our new daily routine includes video conference meetings, schooling our kids, sharing photos from our WFH offices and ordering take-out. Now is the time to think about next steps!How will you navigate through this?What are your professional goals and objectives?What are your biggest challenges?Who can you depend […]