Tips and Thoughts on Inclusivity and Diversity in Experiential Event Marketing and Production

September 6, 2023

Charity Hill

Charity Hill is the co-founder and managing partner of EPIC Entertainment Group, a collective of innovative producers, experiential marketers and creative designers whose sole mission is to produce unrivaled immersive experiences while having a kick-ass time doing it. Launched in 2016, the group’s team of fine-tuned, experienced architects execute every facet of development, production, operation and integration with flawless precision for events of every scope and scale.

Diversity and inclusion in the workplace aren’t new concepts, but companies that organically realize these aspects in their culture undoubtedly see varied viewpoints and perspectives worked into their day-to-day operations. For some companies, this is simply part of their fabric and is quietly woven into their culture.

The practice of inclusion attracts a diverse group of people with unique perspectives, backgrounds and experiences that can positively weave into the work of your team and execution of events. Here are some ideas for fostering a more inclusive and diverse workplace at your organization:

It’s important to normalize inclusion in an authentic way as well as to recognize that even though we strive to be inclusive, that doesn’t mean we have an immediate understanding of where someone is coming from. Diversity affords event organizers a vantage point. It allows the ability to seamlessly produce and to fit in just about any community, reflecting the cultural nuances necessary for event success.
Be open to recognizing that you don’t come from the same background, place or experiences as everyone else. It’s important to listen to and hear the people around you to incorporate their feedback and viewpoints when you’re putting together your team and creating your workflow and production of events.
Consider creating opportunities in productions to help push your team to their own boundaries, and you may see it translate to the audiences’ experience as well. We’ve created unique roles and characters in past productions that allow people to bring in their own personalities to enhance these performances, and we create an environment where everyone has a voice, no matter who they are and where they come from.
Push productions that can be considered a safe space where everyone feels welcome and guests can see themselves represented in some way. This will leave attendees feeling included and satisfied.

Inclusivity, as it pertains to multi-dimensional storytelling, has allowed event pros to produce educational and informative events across the country in diverse locations. We work to bring our team together in a genuine way and lift up the voices we are most trying to understand. It’s not a numbers game or a perception game; it’s about walking the walk and magnifying and amplifying those voices and views.

When people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives are brought together and included in the narrative of a live production project, the innovation and creativity brought to the table can be endless, which creates not only a more responsive workforce but also productions that audiences can relate to, feel represented by and ultimately leave feeling fulfilled.

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Partner Voices

MGM RESORTS: HERE, CONVENTIONS ARE DO-GOOD AND FEEL-GOOD

MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting. At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas: Protecting Natural Resources MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction. Committed to Community Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs. MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations. Fostering Diversity & Inclusion To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all. MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.

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