Meagan Keller, CMP, CEM, DES is Director of Client Services and Operations for CM Event Solutions. She is a seasoned meeting planner with more than 14 years of experience in the conference and trade show industry specializing in creating seamless events that engage and inspire.
With a background in hotel and association management, she currently works at a third-party organization, bringing a wealth of expertise to association client events. Holding both CEM and CMP designations, Meagan is passionate about travel and enjoys exploring new destinations while staying on top of industry trends.
Here, Meagan shares why she enjoys serving on IAEE’s Expo! Expo! Advisory Committee and what she looks forward to the most at Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition 2024 this 16-19 December in Los Angeles, California.
What motivated you to join IAEE’s Expo! Expo! Advisory Committee, and what do you hope to achieve through your service?
Joining the Expo! Expo! Advisory Committee has been an interest to me for a while now. I previously joined the committee right as the COVID pandemic was hitting the U.S. with the hopes of learning from others in the industry – and the leading industry expert, IAEE – on how organizations would be handling trade shows moving forward, while ensuring the future for our industry. By being a part of this committee, I am learning from other organizers the importance to look at the industry as a whole and not just for the interests of one sole organization.
In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges facing the exhibitions and events industry today, and how can attendees at Expo! Expo! learn to address these issues?
I think we are all struggling with budgets at this point in regard to shrinking budgets internally but accelerating costs from venues and providers. I am always looking for more budget-friendly options for our clients but also good vendors that understand the needs in this ever-changing economy. These concerns not only affect us as show organizers but also affect the venues and partners we use, and most importantly, the attendees and exhibitors that are in attendance. Working together with your various partners has become even more important to ensure all stakeholders are being heard throughout the event cycle.
How do you leverage your experience as a show ambassador during Expo! Expo! to gather insights and improve future events?
As a show ambassador during Expo! Expo!, I leverage my experience by actively engaging with other attendees and exhibitors to gather real-time feedback and insights. I focus on understanding their needs and expectations, while also taking note of trends and common themes that emerge during conversations.
As a show organizer, what do you see as the greatest takeaways for those who attend Expo! Expo!?
I personally love the education offered at Expo! Expo!. I have attended many other industry events, and I always walk away wishing there was something more. My experience personally is that no other events offer the level of education that IAEE does when it relates to exhibits, sponsorships and even risk/safety management.
What do you look forward to the most at this year’s Expo! Expo! in Los Angeles?
I am looking forward to reconnecting with past connections as well as meeting new industry partners to form connections with. I am also eager to listen to this year’s speakers on various topics that are relevant and important to our industry.
