Embracing the Future of Event Planning: A Personal Journey at Go West 24

Go West 24

When I first ventured into the Go West Event Conference in Edmonton, it was with a blend of curiosity and anticipation. Having navigated the event planning industry with The Idea Hunter for close to a decade, it's not every day that an event promises not just to showcase but to transform the way we think about our profession.

As I reflect on my experience, I'm thrilled to share why Go West is not just an event but a milestone in our industry's journey. Below is my honest review of my experience at Go West 2024, produced by Time Wise Event Management.

Here is a video recap of my visit to the Go West Conference

A Showcase for Growth and Innovation

In just five years (and I'm quite certain it's been that long), Go West has evolved to a beacon for event professionals across Canada and internationally. The last time I attended the conference it was just in its conception, so I was incredibly impressed to see how far they have come in the last few years. It's a testament to the vision and dedication of its organizers, creating a space where learning, connection, and innovation converge beautifully.

Why Go West 24 Stands Apart

A Feast for the Senses and the Mind: The high-quality production and beautifully decorated spaces at Go West are more than just a treat for the eyes; they set the stage for an immersive learning and networking experience. The Edmonton Convention Center, with its bright, green, and energizing ambiance, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of bringing the outdoors in, making each moment there a breath of fresh air.

A Lineup That Sparks Curiosity: The array of speakers from Canada and the U.S. is nothing short of stellar, covering an eclectic mix of topics from tech innovations for event professionals and deep dives into AI, to the latest trends in entertainment and crucial discussions on mental health and emotional well-being. I was impressed to see speakers like Michael Cerbelli, who you typically only see at US shows (which have a much higher price tag) and other notable names. It shows how much US planners are also catching on to the power of this show and makes the trip from Toronto worthwhile.

Structured Yet Flexible Learning: The unique structure of listening to every speaker briefly before diving deeper into selected sessions later in the day ensured that I didn't miss out on any wisdom. We got to hear every speaker’s topic for 20-minutes on the main stage and then had the opportunity to deep dive, with those we wanted to learn more from, in the afternoon. It's a format that respects our need for an overview while allowing us to tailor our deeper learning experiences.

Culinary Delights: The exceptional food, complete with healthy options, kept the energy up and the minds sharp. It's the kind of detail that shows the organizers truly care about the attendee experience.

A Tradeshow That Connects: The tradeshow floor was bustling, offering countless opportunities to meet vendors and forge meaningful connections. It's a testament to the vibrant community that Go West has nurtured over the years, pulling in a variety of vendors from BC and Alberta.

Embracing the West with Open Arms

Yes, the clientele at Go West predominantly hail from Western Canada, a natural inclination for local businesses to seek local services. However, this geographical leaning didn't diminish the value of the experience for me. On the contrary, it enriched it. Meeting new faces, exploring local vendors, and absorbing the educational content were invaluable, making every moment spent there worthwhile. It underscores the essence of what Go West is all about: building relationships, sharing knowledge, and discovering resources that can transform our practices, no matter where we're based.

Looking Forward to Next February

With clear communication, a digestible and educational program, and a welcoming atmosphere, Go West is a conference that leaves a lasting impression. It's why, without a second thought, I'll be returning next February 2nd-5th,2025. The conference has become more than an event; it's a yearly milestone for personal and professional growth in the ever-evolving landscape of event planning.

In an industry where change is constant, Go West stands as a lighthouse for those of us navigating the complexities of corporate event planning. It is about embracing the future, learning from the best, and being part of a community that's as passionate about innovation as we are about creating unforgettable events.

Join me in looking forward to what promises to be another spectacular edition of Go West. Let's go together, and let's grow together.

Hailey DawoodApril 9, 2024