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March 22-25, 2027
New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention CenterNew Orleans, LA

Cater+Event Schedule 2027

How Clients Buy in 2027: Winning More Weddings & Events in the AI Era

Marc McIntosh  (CEO/Marketing Director, Team Wedding Marketing)
Pass Type: Cater+Event Conference Pass, VIP All Access - Get your pass now!
Track: Sales & Marketing
Vault Recording: TBD
Audience Level: All

The event industry has changed dramatically. Whether you're catering weddings, producing festivals, planning corporate events, or managing private celebrations, your next client is shopping differently than they were just a few years ago.

Today's buyers don't simply ask for referrals or browse social media. They search Google, ask AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini for recommendations, compare websites, read reviews, and often narrow their list of finalists before making first contact. Businesses that communicate their value clearly online are earning more inquiries, while equally talented competitors are being overlooked.

This session explores how the client buying journey has evolved and what event professionals need to do to remain visible, build trust quickly, and convert more prospects into paying clients. You'll learn how AI-powered search, modern websites, online reviews, Google Business Profiles, and strategic messaging all work together to influence purchasing decisions long before the first phone call or tasting.

Whether you serve weddings, corporate events, social celebrations, nonprofits, universities, festivals, or private parties, you'll leave with practical strategies you can implement immediately to strengthen your online presence and generate more qualified leads.