Patch Media hosted Virtually Live London on 21-22 April, which provided organisers, agents and buyers the opportunity to ‘visit’ a destination remotely.
The online event saw more than 160 buyers and provided a virtual tour of London venues. It also took viewers on trips between venues to familiarise them with the surrounding area and transport links.
The event welcomed agencies such as Amex GBT agency, Trinity Event Solutions, Conference Care, eve, HireSpace, HeadBox, Canvas Events and Venue Search London alongside event managers from Financial Times Live and Dods Group. This format allowed venue managers to personally guide viewers around their venues, which was followed with a Q&A session.
Patch Media aim to host a second edition of Virtually Live London and is currently accepting suggestions on its next theme.
Rowan Kitching, director of catering and events, The HAC, said: “The format was fantastic. I think it’s the most buyers I’ve ever presented to in one session and it was great to be part of something bringing the event community together.”
Laura Pearce, from CH&Co, representing RSA House, stated: “It’s a great platform to show off our spaces and the audience seemed engaged; every session ended with a handful of really good questions which were great as it allowed us to answer in front of the entire audience.”
Jackson Clark, managing director, Patch Media, added that Patch Media launched the virtual event to bring venues and event organisers together, despite the inability to conduct site visits.
Clark continued: “But what really struck me was the appeal of togetherness. What brought 150 people together was the feeling of community spirit and the privileged position of being shown around by the venue manager, benefitting from their insight and experience of the venue”.
Jenni Sannia, venue sourcer of Amex GBT agency, concluded: “It was a great way to familiarise with 13 venues and get to know venue managers, I can see this being a great tool for people wanting to view venues from other cities and countries without the hassle of travel. I think this format has a future due to the ease and speed it allows attendees to visit venues and become aware with their capabilities”.
