Every successful event planner knows that who you know can matter just as much as what you know or do. At The Event Planner Expo, the connections you make have the power to evolve into partnerships that fuel your growth year after year. We’ll show you how to prepare, approach, and follow through in ways that build lasting business relationships and not just fleeting introductions.
Arrive With Partnership Goals in Mind
If you want to form partnerships with your attendees at The Event Planner Expo, then you need to go in with intention. Make partnerships your primary goal. Define this goal by creating a list of what you are looking for. You don’t want partnerships with just anyone. You want to establish relationships with other professionals who can help you and your event planning business.
Perhaps you want to expand your services throughout NYC. New venue connections will help you do that. Maybe you want to target a different event niche. Partnering with new entertainers can help you do this. Maybe you want to expand your target client demographics. New catering venue partners can help you with this goal.
Before The Expo, research the exhibitors and make a short list of those you want to talk to the most. This will help you organize your time while in attendance.
Start Relationships With Intentional Conversations
Prepare questions and topics you hope to discuss with each vendor. The goal is always to create a genuine connection for collaboration, not a quick transaction. Having an elevator pitch is ok, but this only opens the door for conversation. Listen to the exhibitor for shared goals, values, or other commonalities. Sharing relatable experiences of successful events can build credibility and trust.
Use VIP Events as Partnership Foundations
The expo floor is only one of many opportunities for networking with exhibitors. Take full advantage of everything The Event Planner Expo has to offer. Attend the cocktail hours, opening party, speaker sessions, and after party for more relaxed networking opportunities. Treat these opportunities to get to know exhibitors on a more personal level. Remember, there are people behind the brands. Getting to know the people helps you stand out and develop a closer partnership.
Turn Annual Attendance Into Growth Opportunities
With The Event Planner Expo being the largest event planning industry trade show in NYC, it serves as the perfect place to reconnect with partners. By attending each year, you are able to dedicate time and attention to fostering your partnerships. It’s also the perfect place for showcasing new products and services. Let partners know you are better able to serve their needs. Use the gathering to introduce your existing partners to new contacts. You strengthen your network of partnerships by creating a wider network of trust.
Create New Partnerships at The Event Planner Expo
Strong partnerships are the backbone of any successful event planning business. At The Event Planner Expo, you have the chance to create them with intention. Think of The Event Planner Expo as your all-access pass to the future of events. From powerhouse keynotes to can’t-miss networking, this year’s Expo raised the roof. But here’s the real headline… we’re just getting started. 2026 will be packed with next-gen strategies and high-impact partnerships that will set you apart from the pack. Lock in early. The real movers and shakers will be there.
