EVMC

Hear from conference sponsors about their latest technologies, learn about current trends in the industry or catch up with current partners.

In 2025, digital advertising is a game-changer for live events, blending creativity with cutting-edge data strategies. This session breaks down key terminology, tools, and tactics to help new marketers navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape. Learn how to stretch your media budget, reach your ideal audience, and drive ticket sales like a pro. Whether you're just starting out or refining your approach, you'll leave with practical tips to turn clicks into crowds.

MODERATOR:
Brian Bauer (President - Bauer Entertainment Marketing)

PANELISTS: 
Cassie Gause (Partner - C&K Media Solutions)
Brittney Garcia (Marketing Director - Austin City Limits Live, Opry Entertainment Group)
Billy Philhower (Account Director - Gupta Media)

Take a break to network with your peers and recharge during this coffee break. Our Sponsor Showcase will be in full swing outside of the ballroom, make sure to connect and learn more about new offerings to our industry!

In this town hall-style gathering, we're flipping the script on traditional conference sessions. This session invites active participation, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing among peers. Are you facing challenges or seeking fresh perspectives in your marketing endeavors? Whether it's navigating the ever-evolving digital landscape, overcoming budget constraints, or devising innovative strategies to engage your audience, this session is your opportunity to voice your concerns and tap into the collective wisdom of your fellow marketers of similar venue sizes & types. 

In this town hall-style gathering, we're flipping the script on traditional conference sessions. This session invites active participation, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing among peers. Are you facing challenges or seeking fresh perspectives in your marketing endeavors? Whether it's navigating the ever-evolving digital landscape, overcoming budget constraints, or devising innovative strategies to engage your audience, this session is your opportunity to voice your concerns and tap into the collective wisdom of your fellow marketers of similar venue sizes & types. 

In this town hall-style gathering, we're flipping the script on traditional conference sessions. This session invites active participation, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing among peers. Are you facing challenges or seeking fresh perspectives in your marketing endeavors? Whether it's navigating the ever-evolving digital landscape, overcoming budget constraints, or devising innovative strategies to engage your audience, this session is your opportunity to voice your concerns and tap into the collective wisdom of your fellow marketers of similar venue sizes & types. 

Join us for lunch in the Augusta Ballroom to recharge and connect with other attendees! 

Ticket sales are just the beginning. Today’s successful venue marketers and corporate partnership teams are collaborating like never before to develop innovative revenue streams that elevate the fan experience while driving profitability. Learn from industry leaders as they share strategies for building mutually beneficial corporate partnerships, designing upsell products fans can’t resist, and unlocking untapped potential in your arena’s operations. Whether you're looking to enhance the guest experience or boost your bottom line, this session will provide actionable insights and inspiration to take your venue’s revenue to the next level.

MODERATOR:
TBA

PANELISTS: 
TBA

It's the Day of Show—what content can marketing teams create to drive engagement and spark FOMO? In this seminar, we’ll dive into effective strategies for capturing behind-the-scenes moments, from trade shots and artist interviews to exclusive event access. We’ll discuss challenges, best practices, and real-world success stories for leveraging authentic content that amplifies buzz and keeps fans engaged.

MODERATOR:
Jessi Armstrong (Tour Marketing Director - Outback Presents)

PANELISTS: 
Bailey Berhannan (Marketing Manager - Addition Financial Arena)
Mark Salazar (Marketing Coordinator - Bridgestone Arena)
Arden Sheehan (Digital Content Coordinator - Ball Arena)

Maximizing revenue hinges on a high sell through rate of all rental locations, and one often overlooked bit of inventory is our back-of-house space. In this session, attendees will learn practical strategies to: pinpoint the right back of house spaces to be marketed effectively, target and approach the right prospective clients, develop creative sales approaches to engage prospects, and build relationships with clients to ensure repeat business. 

MODERATOR:
Matt Seu (Sr. Director, Sales and Service - A's Las Vegas Ballpark at Legends)

PANELISTS: 
Grace Powlas (Director of Marketing & Public Relations - Moody Center)
Chelsea Gandy (Manager, Suite Sales - Atlanta Hawks & State Farm Arena)
Madeleine Moniz (Manager, Premium Sales - Music & Live Events - Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment)

Catch a special LIVE recording of the official EVMC Podcast Adventures in Venueland. Dave Redelberger & Paul have a very special guest lined up for this episode.

GUEST:
J Carter (Founder & Managing Partner - ONE Musicfest/TWOgether Land/One Venture Group)

HOSTS:
Paul Hooper (Co-Host - Adventures In Venueland) 
Dave Redelberger (Co-Host - Adventures In Venueland) 

What happens when every department at a venue rallies around data and one goal—improving the guest experience? In this behind-the-scenes panel, hear how the Fox Theatre’s ticketing, marketing, and guest experience teams use shared data to make smarter decisions that benefit both the fan and the bottom line.
 
From predicting demand and informing pricing to streamlining entry, tailoring food and beverage offerings, and improving pre-show communications, this session explores how cross-departmental collaboration transforms data insights into action. Learn how aligning on the guest experience can drive success across the board—no matter your venue size or type.

MODERATOR:
Blair Brady (CEO & Co-Founder - WITH Agency)

PANELISTS: 
Ben Dostal (Director of Ticketing & Analytics - Fox Theatre)
Rachel Bomeli (Vice President of Facility Operations - Fox Theatre)
Aly Grubb (Director of Sales & Marketing - Fox Theatre)

Make fans the MVPs (Most Valuable Purchasers) with the slam dunk retail strategy discussed in Merch Madness. We’ll break down how to score big in the world of event and arena merchandising. In this high-energy session, industry experts share winning strategies for creating irresistible product lines, mobile merch opportunities, collaborations, and driving fan loyalty through game-changing merchandise experiences.

MODERATOR:
TBA

PANELISTS: 
TBA

Attracting audiences – or larger crowds for those with an already steady following is a goal for just about every organization in the world. An audience gives our art meaning, creates motivation, and, more simply, keeps the lights on and the bills paid. So, creating a strategy to find, retain, and grow audiences is key to any venue’s success.  In this session, we will hear from Group Sales experts who came up with unique ideas and promotions to appeal to larger groups, sell more tickets, and elevate the theatre/game/show experience for everyone.  

MODERATOR:
Denise Sicheneder (EVP of Sales and Service - Spinzo)

PANELISTS: 
Gabriele Bendistis (Senior Director, Group Sales - Comcast Spectacor)
Joe Donlavey (Director of Sales & Corporate Development - BOCH Center - Wang & Shubert Theatres)
Emily Hanover (Manager, Group Experiences and Jr Hawks Programs - Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena)

If you're not celebrating your venue's wins, you're doing it wrong. From record-breaking sales to a blockbuster year to an exciting new partnership, there are endless opportunities to share positive news relating to your venue. This session will not only help you identify newsworthy items that you should be highlighting, but it will explore various creative ways to tout your successes. Get ready to grab the spotlight and broadcast your brightest moments!

MODERATOR:
Kirk Wingerson (Marketing Division Manager - Kia Center / Camping World Stadium)

PANELISTS: 
Cara Vanderhook (VP, Marketing & Communications - Crypto.com Arena, Peacock Theatre & LA Live)
Brian Kitts (Chief Marketing & Business Development Officer - Red Rocks Amphitheatre & Denver Performing Arts Complex)

In this fireside chat, we will explore the dynamic intersection of marketing and impactful leadership within the context of inclusivity. As we navigate the changing landscape of consumer expectations and social responsibility, our panel of industry leaders will discuss how marketing strategies have evolved to embrace diverse voices and foster authentic connections. Gain insights into leveraging inclusive leadership to enhance brand storytelling, engage diverse audiences, and drive meaningful change. Join us for an engaging conversation that highlights best practices, challenges, and the future of marketing in a world that values inclusivity and impact.

PANELISTS: 
Betty Tran (President - FEVO)
Morgan Shaw Parker (President and Chief Operating Officer - WNBA's Atlanta Dream)

Take a break to network with your peers and recharge during this coffee break. Our Sponsor Showcase will be in full swing outside of the ballroom, make sure to connect and learn more about new offerings to our industry!

Based on your great feedback, we're excited to continue with Breakout Sessions for another year! These dynamic conversations build on the success of last year, offering a collaborative space to share best practices and insights on key industry topics. Each session is unique and will NOT be repeated, so choose the topic that speaks to you most and join the conversation!

ROUND 1 TOPICS:

• More Than a Discount: Unpacking How Promoters Shape Group Pricing & Incentives.
  • Chastain D
  • Sales
  • Led By: Courtney Baker (Director, Promotions Marketing - Harlem Globetrotters) 
     
• What’s Your Workflow? Excel Sheets Are Out, Emerging Tech Is In!
  • Chastain E
  • Digital Marketing
  • Led By: Brett Pegler (VP of Marketing - Family Entertainment Live)
     
• Creating Activations That Engage: From Concept to Execution
  • Chastain F & G
  • Marketing
  • Led By: Mandi Rinn (Brand Manager - Moody Center)
     
• Becoming Media Savvy Part 1: A Workshop on Pitches That Land & Live Shots That Captivate
  • Peachtree 1 & 2
  • Public Relations
  • Led By: Paul Millikin (Feature Reporter - Good Day Atlanta (FOX)) & Vanessa Kromer (Senior Director Publicity - SoFi Stadium & Hollywood Park)

Based on your great feedback, we're excited to continue with Breakout Sessions for another year! These dynamic conversations build on the success of last year, offering a collaborative space to share best practices and insights on key industry topics. Each session is unique and will NOT be repeated, so choose the topic that speaks to you most and join the conversation!

ROUND 2 TOPICS:

• Sustaina-what? How do you craft your sustainability stories? 
  • Chastain D
  • Marketing
  • Led By: Janice Jimenez (Sr. Director of Marketing - Climate Pledge Arena), Dawn Brown (Sr. Manager Stadium Tours & Education Programs + Sustainability - Mercedes-Benz Stadium), Sofi Armenakian (Head of Sustainable Strategy - Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena)
     
• Crafting Big Looks for Concert On-Sale
  • Chastain E
  • Marketing
  • Led By: Kate Edge (Event Marketing Director - Bridgestone Arena)
     
• How to Keep Annual Events Feeling Fresh: Strategies for Ongoing Success
  • Chastain F & G
  • Marketing
  • Led By: Windy Reeves (Senior Director - Feld Entertainment)
     
• Turning Internal Teams into Brand Ambassadors: The Power of Internal Communication in Triumph and Crisis
  • Peachtree 1 & 2
  • Public Relations
  • Led By: Kim Klein (VP Marketing and Communications - 313 Presents) & Megan King (VP Human Resources - 313 Presents)
     
• Becoming Media Savvy Part 2: A Workshop on Prepping On Camera Spokespeople & Impactful Media Relationship 
  • Peachtree Ballroom
  • Public Relations
  • Led By: Paul Millikin (Feature Reporter - Good Day Atlanta (FOX)) & Aly Grubb (Director of Sales & Marketing - Fox Theatre)

Buses begin to depart for the EVMC Awards at the Fox Theatre. Buses will each leave once full and operate on a loop throughout the evening. Final drop off back to the Westin at the end of the night will be at 11:15 pm. Buses will be located on Ted Turner Drive in front of the hotel valet.

EVMC conference badge required for entry onto the bus as well as event.

Join us for a landmark evening as we celebrate a decade of creativity and innovation at the 10th Annual EVMC Awards, at the iconic Fox Theatre in Atlanta! This special edition of the awards will shine a spotlight on the most groundbreaking ideas and exceptional professionals in live entertainment marketing. This is your chance to tour this beautiful piece of Atlanta history and enjoy everything the Fox has to offer! Don’t miss this elevated evening of networking, recognition, and celebration among the industry's best.

In a world that thrives on connection, celebrating others can be a catalyst for success, Encouragement is a force that strengthens teams, builds resilience and fosters a healthy culture. This keynote will explore how lifting others leads to greater empowerment, stronger connections and a more impactful leadership style. Through inspiring insights and practical strategies, discover the transformative effect of support in personal and professional growth.

Speaker: Wilson Hughes, Fangage Consulting

Take a break to network with your peers and recharge during this coffee break.

Learn some fundamentals of managing people while shaping your unique leadership style. This session dives into best practices for building high-performing teams and fostering growth, including actionable strategies for creating development plans, designing meaningful internships, and driving success at every level.

MODERATOR:
Eric Jurcak (Director of Marketing - Desert Diamond Arena)

PANELISTS: 
Jennifer Persyn (Executive Director, Venue Marketing & Publicity - Ball Arena - Kroenke Sports & Entertainment)
Georgieann Michels (VP Marketing - Wells Fargo Center)
Erin Mitchell Martin (VP, Venues Marketing - Monumental Sports & Entertainment)
Jessica Runyon Hartwig (VP, Global Client Marketing - Ticketmaster)

Who doesn’t love a good party? Get inspired to celebrate anniversaries and milestones that make your venue the life of the party! This panel is all about turning key times into unforgettable stories, so your venue’s legacy feels as iconic as the events it hosts. We’ll review accurately archiving achievements, building brand books, creating commemorative collections and more to share the branding ABCs of anniversaries. Make every milestone into moments that will go down in history. Because they will.

MODERATOR:
Becca Greve (Marketing Coordinator - United Center)

PANELISTS: 
Kishore Ramlagan (Director of Marketing, Honda Center & OCVIBE Venues - OCVIBE)
Sarah Kraynik (Marketing Director - Florida Theatre)
David Mitchell (Executive Director - Atlanta Preservation Center)
Rachel Fishman (Marketing Director - CFG Bank Arena)

Discover how small marketing teams can be efficient in our fast-paced event industry when responsible for all things marketing - media buying, social content, PR and more.

MODERATOR:
Andrea Rivera (Venue Marketing Manger - Kroenke Sports & Entertainment)

PANELISTS: 
Michelle Jenkins (Director of Marketing - Sandler Center for the Performing Arts)
Michelle McCarthy (Founder & CEO - MCC Marketing Group)
Bjorn Westlund (Sr. Manager, Events & Marketing - Empower Field at Mile High)
Alyssa Patani (Arena Marketing Manager - Toyota Center)

In an age of influencer-driven campaigns and ever-evolving data practices, navigating the legal landscape of sports and entertainment marketing is more complex than ever. This panel, featuring a sports and entertainment attorney and venue marketing and operation executives, will provide real-world solutions to common legal challenges facing venue marketers.

MODERATOR:
Aly Grubb (Director of Sales & Marketing - Fox Theatre)

PANELISTS: 
Lorraine Ma (CEO & Founder - Whitebalance)
Narcis Alikhani (Senior Vice President, Marketing - Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena)
Allie Chinsky (Vice President and Senior Counsel - Atanta Hawks and State Farm Arena)
Matt Wilson (Partner and Chair of Entertainment and Sports Team - Arnall, Golden, Gregory LLP)

"¡Gooooal!" Venues across North America are welcoming more international soccer matches as they prepare for FIFA World Cup 2026. This session will provide essential insights, and delve into soccer terminology, effective crowd management strategies for enthusiastic fans, and uncover impactful marketing and PR tactics to amplify your venue's presence during these high-profile events. Learn from industry leaders as they share how each city is preparing for FIFA World Cup 2026.

MODERATOR:
Traci Messier (Director of Corporate Communications - US Soccer)

PANELISTS: 
Erin Hendrickson (Senior Director, Business Development - Atlanta Sports Council)
Shivam Lekhi (Senior Digital Marketing Manager - SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park)
Jason Kirksey (Director, Media Operations and Broadcast - AMB Sports and Entertainment)

Join us for lunch in Augusta Ballroom where we will announce the site for EVMC 2026 & the winner of the week's 50/50 draw!

This session will explore how sports and entertainment venues can leverage SMS and email marketing to boost fan engagement, personalize interactions, drive ticket sales, and unlock new upsell and revenue opportunities. Industry experts will share proven strategies for creating a 360° digital fan experience, from consideration to retention, growing your SMS and email audiences, and utilizing Ticketmaster's Managed SMS platform. Walk away with actionable insights to enhance fan engagement at every stage of their journey.

MODERATOR:
Jessica Runyon Hartwig (Vice President, Global Client Marketing - Ticketmaster)

PANELISTS: 
Patrick Hannigan (CTO and co-founder - HIVE)
Matt Day (Sr. Director, Digital Marketing - Atlanta Hawks & State Farm Arena)
Mohsina Yusuf (Senior Marketing Manager - Atlanta Falcons)

You will hear from professionals in Group, Premium and Marketing teams about how they connect and collaborate with each to execute more effective and successful campaigns.

MODERATOR:
Sarah Elliott (RVP Venues & Promoters - Canada & Eastern US - Ticketmaster)

PANELISTS: 
Steve Moore (Private Event Sales Manager - Fox Theatre)
Lucy Reheja (Group Sales Manager - Fox Theatre)
Susan Tuladziecki (Group Sales Manager - 313 Presents)
Kristi Reedy (Director Marketing - T-Mobile Center)

Because social media continues to evolve, we'll discuss the strengths and weaknesses of different platforms, explore future trends, identify the secret sauce to going viral and consider how algorithms can help or hinder your best efforts. Join us for an insightful conversation designed to help you get the most out of every post.

MODERATOR:
Celina Torrijos (Digital Content Manager - Music & Live Events - Scotiabank Arena)

PANELISTS: 
Stephen Michael (Digital Creator - @stephenxmichael)
Wendy Gajadharsingh (Digital Creator - @TheBubblyTalk)
Drew Moncivaiz (Social Media Specialist - SoFi Stadium, YouTube Theater & Hollywood Park)

The entertainment industry is more than a career—it's a lifestyle. With long nights, weekend gigs, and the pressure to always be "on," the line between work and personal life often blurs. This session dives deep into the unique challenges of burnout in an industry that thrives on passion and relentless schedules.
Learn how to recharge your creativity, build a sustainable work-life balance, and thrive in a profession that demands so much of your time and energy. This session will equip you with tools to protect your spark while staying in the spotlight.

MODERATOR:
TBA

PANELISTS: 
TBA

How to go about the art of curating memorable experiences for your fans and produce artist gifts that are gram-worthy. 

MODERATOR:
Janice Jimenez (Sr. Director of Marketing - Climate Pledge Arena)

PANELISTS: 
Matt Christine (Director of Marketing - Santander Arena and Performing Arts Center)
Samantha Exler (Marketing Manager - Enmarket Arena)
Derrick L. Christian II (Director of Marketing, Brand Innovation - United Center)

Take a break to network with your peers and recharge during this coffee break.

This is the last chance to place your bids on silent auction items! Bidding closes at 2:30pm. Head to Peachtree A to get your bidding on! 

Discover how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the way venues market events, engage with fans, and deliver unforgettable experiences. Join industry leaders as they discuss real-world examples, innovative tools, and future possibilities for leveraging AI to create deeper connections with fans, boost revenue, and stay ahead in an ever-evolving entertainment landscape.

MODERATOR:
Dave Redelberger (Director of Communications and Interactive Marketing - Columbus Arena Sports & Entertainment)

PANELISTS: 
Jim Delaney (Founder/CEO - Activate Sports & Entertainment)
Brittany Griffith-Herndon (Director of Sales and Marketing - Altria Theater, ASM Global)
Katy Knauss (Brand Strategy Manager - Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex_

Buses begin to depart for the evening event at Terminal West. Buses will each leave once full and operate on a loop throughout the evening. Final drop off back to the Westin at the end of the night will be at 11:55 pm. Buses will be located on Ted Turner Drive in front of the hotel valet.

EVMC conference badge required for entry onto the bus as well as event.
 

Close out the Event & Venue Marketing Conference with a night to unwind, connect, and celebrate the week’s biggest takeaways. That’s a Wrap is your official send-off—at Terminal West, one of Atlanta’s standout local music venues. From 8 PM to midnight, join fellow venue pros and marketers for a laid-back evening with a live DJ, open dance floor, and all the right vibes to end the week on a high note. No agendas—just great music, easy conversation, and a well-earned toast to a week well spent.

EVMC registration badge required for entry.