From June 16–18, I had the opportunity to attend the Canadian Association of Exposition Management (CAEM) Annual Conference in Fredericton, NB. This event brought together show managers and suppliers from across the country for a few packed days of insights, learning, and networking.
I was there to better understand the evolving challenges show managers are facing, the new ways they’re thinking about planning events, and — most importantly — how we at CCR Solutions can support them in delivering exceptional experiences.
One recurring theme throughout the conference was how much show managers and suppliers rely on each other to create seamless events. We’re not just service providers; we’re partners with shared goals. When we collaborate early and often, we not only meet expectations — we exceed them. This mindset of mutual respect and teamwork is something I’ll carry forward in every client conversation.
Many show managers talked about needing partners who can adapt to changing timelines, evolving budgets, and shifting audience expectations. It reinforced how valuable it is to come to the table with creative solutions and a willingness to pivot. Whether it’s offering scalable AV packages or suggesting alternate tech setups, flexibility is key to building trust and long-term relationships.
The definition of a successful event is no longer just attendance numbers. Planners are thinking more holistically — about engagement, sustainability, accessibility, and ROI. It’s a reminder that we need to keep looking at the full picture and tailor our support to align with those broader outcomes. At CCR, we’re already integrating this thinking into our planning process, and this conference only reaffirmed how crucial that is.
Events like the CAEM Conference are a valuable reminder of why it’s so important to stay active and engaged in our industry. By hearing directly from show managers, I gained new perspectives and practical insights that I’m excited to bring back to our team. It helps us stay ahead of trends, strengthen our partnerships, and most importantly, continue delivering meaningful results for our clients.
A huge thank you to the team at CAEM for hosting such a thoughtful and well-organized event. Looking forward to what next year brings!
Stephanie S. brings a wealth of experience in customer service, with a background spanning hospitality, retail, and live event support. Known for her exceptional communication skills and eye for detail, she is passionate about creating outstanding experiences for clients — from first contact to final cue. As a proud member of the Canadian Association of Exposition Management (CAEM), Stephanie stays actively involved in the industry to stay ahead of trends and better support her clients and colleagues. Her positive energy and proactive mindset make her a key member of the CCR Solutions on-site team at the Toronto Congress Centre.
📧 stephanies@ccrsolutions.com
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