The CEMA Study Tour at Salesforce Connections in Chicago, IL June 6-7, proved to be an enriching and enlightening experience for all participants, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the planning and execution of Salesforce’s Connections 2023 digital marketing conference. This study tour aimed to facilitate cross-cultural learning, knowledge exchange, and networking within the corporate event marketing industry.

We hosted more than 20+ event marketers and industry partners from across the country who were blown away by the level of strategy, attention to detail, and professionalism that the Salesforce strategic events team creates delivering business-critical results for their company.

Highlights of the Tour:

Behind-the-scenes: The study tour commenced with a behind-the-scenes look at the 8000 attendee event at McCormick Place in Chicago, where Salesforce strategic event marketers shared their insights into the planning and execution of the attendee journey, sponsorships, messaging hierarchy, and content strategy. Study tour attendees gained valuable insights into world-class event and production best practices.

Industry Insights: Attendees were able to hear from Salesforce Executives, Erin Oles, SVP of Strategic Events, Elizabeth Gilstrap, VP of Strategic Events, Dawn Devirgillio, VP of Customer Marketing, and Johnny Fruits, Creative Director on key insights into how Connections markets to marketers and the differences in key audiences. We also heard from industry partners Peter Johnson, President of Mountain View Staging, Katherine Pettit, Executive Creative Director of George P. Johnson, and Dustin Arnheim, SVP Sales and Services of Choose Chicago on the latest trends and technologies in the industry.

Networking Opportunities: A key objective of the study tour was to provide ample networking opportunities. Mariott Hotels hosted a welcome reception. Choose Chicago and Hyatt Hotels hosted an evening reception. George P. Johnson and Moutain View Staging both sponsored event meals that allowed participants to build lasting professional relationships. The diverse mix of attendees, ranging from seasoned veterans to emerging professionals, enriched the networking experience.

Key Takeaways:

• A comprehensive understanding of the current corporate event landscape.
• Exposure to innovative technologies and methodologies driving industry growth.
• Firsthand knowledge of best practices and challenges faced by event marketers
• Valuable connections with peers, experts, and potential collaborators.

Future Implications: The insights gained from the CEMA Connections 2023 Study Tour are expected to have a lasting impact on the participants’ professional journeys. The knowledge acquired, relationships formed, and perspectives gained will contribute to their ability to navigate the rapidly evolving corporate events sector and implement strategies that align with global trends.

The CEMA Connections 2023 Study Tour provided an immersive and comprehensive experience, blending industry thought leadership, shared best practices, and networking. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical exposure, participants returned with a fresh outlook, ready to make meaningful contributions to their organizations and the event marketing industry as a whole.

If you or your company would like to host a CEMA Study tour please reach out to Brian Mason bmason@salesforce.com or Richard Steinau rsteinau@bellwethershow.com for more information.