It’s that time of year when we start thinking about all the exciting things we want to do in 2025, and I’m ready to share some updates with you. We've obviously hit some hiccups with in-person events this year, including having to cancel Owner Camp Whistler. Le sigh.
We get it. Times are tough, and what we want at the beginning of the year isn't always what we can do later. As we head into the new year, we’re taking steps to ensure events provide value and deeper connections without being too expensive or risky. Keep reading to learn more and find out how you can get involved!
A New Plan For 2025 In-Person Events
Over the past few weeks, we’ve been working closely with the Bureau Advisory Council, diving deep into their insights and advice on how we can improve our events and make them even more valuable for you. Their input has been incredibly helpful, and we’re excited to share a new approach for 2025 that reflects the best ideas from the community.
Using Member Venues
Next week, we’ll be reaching out to see who might have a member-owned venue we can use to host events. This not only keeps costs down but also gives us that home-field advantage. It also removes the big risk of partnering with a hotel or big venue. We've already gotten great spots in Dallas, Phoenix and Portland. If you have a space you'd like to share, just email me or look for the official request next week.
Streamlining Polls & Pre-Registration
We’re making it easier for you to give us feedback and express your interest in upcoming events with a new combined poll and pre-registration interest list. With one quick step, you’ll help shape the content AND lock in your spot early.
New Event Roles: Host & Champion
We’re introducing two new roles for events:
Host: Responsible for handling the logistics and venue coordination.
Champion: The one hyping up the event and engaging with the community.
Both roles will be compensated with either a percentage of the profits or a flat fee—because we value our leaders' work to make these events happen.
Less Hoping, More Reality
No more hoping an event will work out. Going forward, we’re using hard data to make our decisions. We’ll only green-light an event if 30-50% of potential attendees show early interest, and pre-registrations cover 50-60% of the costs.
Virtual and Hybrid Options on Our Radar
Travel can be tough, so we’re exploring options like virtual tickets. These won’t replace the magic of in-person events, but they will allow more of you to participate, even if you can’t be there in person.
There's a lot more underway, but hopefully, this gives you a sense of what's coming next.
I’ve set a big goal for 2025: I’m going to facilitate less than half of the in-person events. That way I can focus on the bigger picture—growing the community, improving the value we offer, and making sure every single one of you gets the most out of being a part of The Bureau.