EMT #29 with Evan Babins - Maximizing Vendor Networks for Unbelievable Events

Event Marketer's Toolbox

In this episode of Event Marketer’s Toolbox, Chris Dunn and Brendon Hamlin are joined by Evan Babins, an event professional with a diverse background spanning AV production, hospitality, and corporate event planning. Evan shares his expertise on how to leverage vendor networks for producing high-impact events.

• Building long-term vendor relationships
• How to communicate effectively with vendors
• The difference between a vendor and a partner
• Practical strategies for managing expectations and maximizing collaboration

Evan emphasizes that event success isn’t just about what happens on-site - it’s about cultivating the right relationships with the right partners.

🔹 Vendor Relationships are Key to Success:
Evan explains how trust and communication with vendors are crucial to event success. Curating a network of reliable vendors ensures smooth event execution and exceptional results.

🔹 Partnership vs. Vendor Relationship:
A vendor fulfills their role; a partner goes beyond to support the event’s success. Building long-term partnerships ensures vendors are invested in your vision and willing to adapt to challenges.

🔹 Effective Communication is Essential:
Communication isn’t just about relaying information - it’s about proactive collaboration. Setting clear expectations with your vendors before, during, and after the event helps prevent issues.

🔹 Managing Expectations for Smooth Execution:
Managing vendor expectations and creating open channels of communication leads to smoother event execution. Providing necessary resources (e.g., downtime, meals) helps ensure your team delivers the best results.

Vendor networks are more than just a list of suppliers - they’re an essential part of delivering exceptional events. Evan Babins shares his expertise on how to build trust, collaborate effectively, and create long-lasting relationships with vendors, ensuring smoother event execution and a more successful outcome.

👉🏼 Join us for more insightful discussions like this by tuning into 'Event Marketer's Toolbox,' where industry leaders share the tools, tactics, and trends driving success in the event world.

This Show is sponsored by Blue Hive

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Chapters

1. Episode Intro & Guest Introduction (00:00:00)

2. Leveraging Vendor Networks for Event Success (00:05:39)

3. Turning Vendors into Partners (00:12:39)

4. Managing Expectations: Pre, During, and Post Event (00:17:39)

5. Key Takeaways & Wrap-Up (00:25:39)