New Year, New Hobby: Why America’s Biggest Craft Events Are Choosing Ticketbud for 2026

American Craft Made Baltimore and more of the country’s top crafting and quilting events kick off 2026 with Ticketbud, proving that clear ticketing, flexible tools, and easy onsite access matter more than ever.

^{American Craft Made Baltimore celebrates is 49th year on February 20-22, 2026 . Photo by Max Franz.}

Every January and February, quilters, makers, artists, collectors, and curious newcomers hit the road for a new year of hands-on creativity. And in 2026, America’s most anticipated craft events — American Craft Made Baltimore, Road to California Quilters Conference & Showcase, and QuiltCon — are all choosing Ticketbud to run their shows.

It’s no coincidence. Craft events have always been community-driven, multigenerational, multifaceted, and complex. They juggle retail, education, workshops, group access, VIPs, day-passes, weekend passes, newcomers, long-timers, and thousands of same-day walk-ins. They require seamless ticketing and check-in processes and demand easy-to-use attendee management and reporting tools.

Thus, organizers are choosing Ticketbud for its ability to handle complexity without hidden fees, feature add-ons, or technical barriers. And, nowhere is that clearer than at American Craft Made Baltimore.

American Craft Made Baltimore — A 49-Year Tradition Powered by Modern Ticketing Tools

Produced by the American Craft Council (ACC), American Craft Made Baltimore is one of the longest-running and most beloved craft showcases in the nation. Celebrating its 49th show, the 2026 event will welcome 400 juried artists and around 10,000 attendees to the Baltimore Convention Center for a weekend of shopping and demonstrations, February 20-22.

Now an annual tradition, attendees and artists return year-after-year. Many carry the annual event tote bag like a collector’s badge of honor.

^{Attendees sport their annual ACMB tote bags. Photo by Max Franz.}

“Using Ticketbud has given us a much clearer picture of who’s actually coming to the show and how they’re engaging with it,” says Madie Ley, Data Systems Administrator for ACC. “We can track things like who buys a weekend pass versus who comes for one day, where people are traveling from, and how many attendees are returning. All of that feeds into our CRM, which helps us understand our audiences and create an experience that keeps people coming back every year.”

Behind the scenes, ACC runs a tight, mission-driven operation. As a nonprofit, their goal is to engage as many craft appreciators as possible and provide economic opportunity to artist vendors. They need a ticketing platform that’s simple to use, cost effective, and robust enough to support a massive, multi-segment audience.

“When we were looking for an alternative to Eventbrite, we realized quickly that there are few lightweight and affordable platforms available outside of Ticketbud,” Ley says. “Other platforms were either too expensive, fragmented, or didn’t give us the level of insight we rely on. Ticketbud is all encompassing and each feature runs seamlessly with the next.”

Why American Craft Made Baltimore Chose Ticketbud

Ley explains that few ticketing platforms were as all-encompassing as Ticketbud. And even fewer offered the tools and analytics ACC needed without driving up the cost.

“There’s really no downside to just trying Ticketbud. It is extremely easy to set up and doesn't require a long-term contract,” she says. “Ticketbud truly provides the whole 360-degree experience — tickets, promotion tools, onsite tools.”

Ticketbud’s pricing and inclusive feature set mean ACC gets everything without any nickel-and-diming:

Salesforce integration that supports real audience insight and engagement
ACC treats their data seriously. With Ticketbud feeding into Salesforce, they can track their audience’s attendance and insights year after year to understand what ticket types are selling, where people are traveling from, who is returning year after year, and which promotions are drawing them in.
Promo and access codes that reflect their complex audience
From members and partners to local crafting cohorts, ACC creates and markets more than 20 promotional codes annually, managed seamlessly through the platform. This drives ticket sales and appeals to new and returning buyers through specialty discounts and promotions.
Embedded ticketing that keeps purchasers on the ACC website
No redirecting. No friction. Just a clean, branded checkout.
Onsite tools that support heavy same-day sales
A third of total ticket sales happen onsite at American Craftmade Baltimore. So Ticketbud’s mobile check-in and box office tools allow staff to process a nonstop mix of QR codes, printed tickets, membership lookups, and walk-up buyers without extensive training or bottlenecks.

With Ticketbud’s support, the 49th annual show is bound to be a success, Ley says: “We have exciting things planned for this year’s show with incredible, skilled craftsmen and artists. It will certainly be an unforgettable event and set the stage for the big 50th anniversary ahead.”

^{Attendees interact with ACMB artist vendor. Photo by Max Franz.}

Coast-to-Coast, Other Craft and Quilt Events Are Making the Same Move

QuiltCon 2026 (Raleigh, NC) — February 19–22, 2026

Hosted by the Modern Quilt Guild, QuiltCon is billed as the largest modern quilting event in the world. It features a juried quilt show, curated vendor hall, lectures, and workshops at the Raleigh Convention Center.

Why they chose Ticketbud: Massive foot traffic, multi-generational audience, and a blend of education and retail requires crystal-clear ticket options, simple purchasing, and streamlined attendee communication (from multi-day calendar widgets and group tickets to attendee emails and event descriptions).

Road to California Quilters Conference & Showcase (Ontario, CA) — January 21-24, 2026

A beloved West Coast hub for classes, lectures, and shopping. The show touts the largest quilting vendor mall on the West Coast, a quilting contest, classes, and more.

Why they chose Ticketbud: The event welcomes attendees to choose between one day and weekend passes. Quilters range from QR-code pros to “where’s my confirmation email?” Paper and mobile need to coexist without bottlenecks.

Craft Events Want Ease, Clarity, and No Drama. Ticketbud Delivers.

From century-old guild traditions to first-time makers dipping their toes into a new hobby, attendees want the same thing: simple ticket purchases, clear communication and easy check-in. And craft organizers want tools that feel intuitive, integrate seamlessly with their operations, and produce the best buying and selling experience.

Ticketbud delivers both. You can set up flexible tickets, launch promo codes, embed checkout on your site, and create a check-in flow that keeps lines moving — all without extra fees or complicated setup.

For more ideas on how to take advantage of Ticketbud’s tools for your next craf event, check out:

Flexible Tickets for Complex Schedules: Single-day, multi-day, timed entry, group/guild rates, and workshop add-ons — built without pricing acrobatics.
Event Calendar Display: A clean, at-a-glance calendar above tickets so buyers pick the right day or session.
Promo + Access Codes: Ideal for guilds, sponsors, instructors, members, and first-time or returning attendees.
Embedded Ticketing: Keep attendees on your website while maintaining full branding and seamless checkout.
Fast, Friendly Check-In: Free mobile app with QR scanning, name search, offline tolerance, and printable lists for low-tech backup.
Onsite Box Office Tools: Sell at the door with mobile devices and card readers.
Real-Time Analytics & Salesforce Integration: Track sales, revenue, attendance behavior, geographic trends, and post-event performance with clean, exportable reporting.
Early Payouts & Financial Flexibility: Better cash flow means less stress when organizing.

Get started for free today at ticketbud.com.

Event Lead Retrieval Just got Easier with Ticketbud’s Badge Scanning Feature

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 18, 2024

AUSTIN, TX – The new Badge Scanning and Lead Retrieval Feature from Ticketbud allows event vendors to scan and capture lead information from QR-enabled event badges. This tool helps streamline lead management practices and better demonstrate value-add for trade shows, expos, and other events.

The lead capturing tool integrates seamlessly with the site’s all-inclusive platform and can be implemented across event badges, wristbands, or racing bibs. During an event, vendors can easily access the tool through Ticketbud’s free mobile app, allowing them to scan and make updates to lead profiles in real time.

The new feature builds on the platform’s robust event credentialling tool suite, integrating seamlessly with Ticketbud’s badge printing and bib assignment systems, therefore eliminating the need for third-party tools.

“Including this feature in Ticketbud’s offerings is all about creating a more efficient and impactful event ecosystem,” said Ticketbud CEO Kayhan Ahmadi. “Organizers benefit from a fully integrated system, vendors gain a streamlined way to capture and manage leads, and attendees enjoy smoother check-in and vendor engagement processes.”

Key Benefits of Ticketbud’s Badge Scanning and Lead Retrieval feature include:

Real-Time Data Capture: Vendors can instantly collect attendee details, including custom fields such as zip codes or age, determined by the organizer during registration.
Customizable and Secure: Attendee information is encrypted and only shared with permissions, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.
Streamlined Workflow: Data collected via scans can be exported as CSV files and easily imported into CRM or email marketing systems.
Offline Capability: Scanning works seamlessly in both online and offline modes, providing reliability even in low-connectivity environments.
Scalable and User-Friendly: Accessible on any iOS or Android device, the feature is ideal for events of all sizes.

“Ticketbud's badge scanning and lead retrieval feature has been such a great addition to our events,” said Eli Singh, Senior Marketing Manager at Electrify Expo. “Our vendors love how easy it is to use and value the simple way to connect with attendees. It’s been great to see them return year after year for the reliable experience we provide.”

About Ticketbud:

Ticketbud is the event organizer's ticketing platform, user-friendly for first time organizers, powerful and flexible for large festivals and events. Access all features and ongoing customer support, with complete reporting and data ownership. With early payouts and the flexibility to customize, event organizers worldwide trust Ticketbud. Create a free event website today.

Ticketbud and Ticketbud LLC are registered trademarks of Ideabud LLC, in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

Website: www.ticketbud.com

Ticketbud’s Integrated Waiver Feature was Born from Real-World Challenges at Event Check-in

Austin, TX – Long lines and delays at ticket check-in are a thing of the past. Ticketbud's Integrated Waiver feature speeds up event entry by enabling event organizers to collect signatures and scan tickets seamlessly at check-in.

The new feature was inspired by real-world observations at high-volume events, such as expos and festivals. Ticketbud CEO Kayhan Ahmadi noticed that check-in teams would use one device to check-in attendees, then collect consent forms on another. The process held up event entry and held attendees back from the fun.

“Check-in was slow and cumbersome, preventing event staff from getting people through the line quickly,” Ahmadi said. “But with the Integrated Waiver feature, the ticket holder is presented with a waiver when their event ticket is scanned. The system captures their name and signature efficiently, ensuring a fast and secure experience.”

By fully embedding waivers into the check-in workflow through the Ticketbud app, Ticketbud eliminates the need for third-party waiver software and a two-step check-in process, saving event organizers time and money. With the tool, each waiver is processed individually, even when tickets are purchased in bulk. This provides an extra layer of accountability and security.

Extensive testing and a year of beta trials have ensured the feature’s reliability and ease of use. So far, the Integrated Waiver feature has proven valuable at trade shows, experiential events, haunted houses, carnivals, and other events with a reasonable assumption of risk. For example, Electrify Expo, the largest outdoor electric vehicle festival test drove the feature at their recent event in Austin.

“With thousands of attendees eager to test-drive electric cars and scooters, we needed a quick and secure way to collect waivers without slowing down check-ins,” said Deidra Sibila, Box Office Manager at Electrify Expo. “Ticketbud’s solution allows us to gather signatures seamlessly during entry, keeping our lines moving and ensuring everyone gets to the fun faster."

Including this capability within Ticketbud’s full stack, aligns with the tech company’s mission to streamline event workflows and improve attendee experiences. Like all Ticketbud tools, activating the waiver feature is simple and intuitive. Event organizers can enable the settings in their Ticketbud dashboard at any time, at no extra cost.

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About Ticketbud:

Ticketbud is the event organizers ticketing platform, user-friendly for first time organizers, powerful and flexible for large festivals and events. Access all features and ongoing customer support, with complete reporting and data ownership. With early payouts and the flexibility to customize, event organizers worldwide trust Ticketbud. Get a ticketing buddy you can rely on.

Ticketbud and Ticketbud LLC are registered trademarks of Ideabud LLC, in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

Website: www.ticketbud.com

Ticketbud Partners with Sensible Weather to Offer Weather Warranties on Event Tickets

Ticketbud has partnered with Sensible Weather to bring peace of mind to event-goers, offering an optional Weather Guarantee service that protects ticket purchases against unexpected weather disruptions.

This innovative integration allows event attendees to opt into Weather Guarantees at checkout, ensuring up to 100% reimbursement if the forecast on event day fails to meet expectations, such as rain or extreme heat. With this added layer of protection, Ticketbud continues to prioritize customer confidence and convenience, making outdoor events more accessible and stress-free.

"We believe this is the best solution in protecting ticket holders and event organizers from the uncertainty of outdoor events," said Ticketbud CEO Kahyan Ahmad. "Because outdoor events are subject to the elements, event goers may hold off on purchasing tickets in advance, especially if event organizers are unable to offer weather-related refunds due to production expenses."

Event organizers can enable the new warranty feature when setting up their event ticketing page on Ticketbud. Then, Sensible Weather will provide each event a specific Weather Guarantee against either rain or heat. At checkout, Ticket buyers can optionally choose to add the Weather Guarantee to their order for an additional fee.

On the morning of the event, Sensible Weather will monitor the forecast, issuing text alerts and automatic refunds to ticket holders if the forecast indicates a pre-set threshold of rain or specific high temperatures. Event reimbursements are covered 100% through Sensible Weather and are processed within 3-5 days via paypal or bank transfer — even if the event continues as planned. This means ticket holders keep a valid ticket, along with their refund.

"We're thrilled to be partnering with Ticketbud to allow ticket buyers to secure weather protection," said Nick Cavanagh, Ph.D., Sensible Weather CEO. "We know outdoor events are always at the mercy of the weather, and our Weather Guarantees can enhance the event experience, offering peace of mind for early ticket purchases."

Sensible Weather handles all customer service inquiries related to the Weather Guarantee. Additionally, the Ticketbud partner provides downloadable marketing assets and templates to help organizers effectively inform attendees about the added protection available for their tickets.

About Ticketbud:
Ticketbud is the event organizers ticketing platform, user-friendly for first time organizers, powerful and flexible for large festivals and events. Access all features and ongoing customer support, with complete reporting and data ownership. With early payouts and the flexibility to customize, event organizers worldwide trust Ticketbud. Get a ticketing buddy you can rely on.

Ticketbud and Ticketbud LLC are registered trademarks of Ideabud LLC, in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

Website: www.ticketbud.com

About Sensible Weather:
Sensible Weather is the leading Weather Guarantee provider for the travel and hospitality industries, with a unique Weather Guarantee product that proactively reimburses hotel guests, golfers, skiers, and those visiting outdoor attractions and campsites when weather – rain and high temperatures – negatively impacts their experience. The Weather Guarantee is available through Sensible's travel and hospitality partners, helping them provide a differentiated value to guests that increases peace of mind and offers tangible experience benefits, while increasing revenue and booking conversion. Founded in 2019, Sensible has sold over 500,000 Weather Guarantees and is backed by some of the biggest names in hospitality, climate, and technology, including the National Science Foundation, Infinity Ventures, Amex Ventures, and the PGA of America.

Website: www.sensibleweather.com

Ticketbud Badge Printing Feature Streamlines Event Registration and Enhances Attendee Experience

AUSTIN, TX – Ticketbud’s badge printing services enable event organizers to offer branded, scannable badges to attendees, printed either on-site or in advance for streamlined and professional event ticketing and check-in services.

The credentialing tool integrates seamlessly with Ticketbuds existing event registration and check-in processes, eliminating the need for third-party badge platforms. Introducing the feature solidifies Ticketbud’s position as a one-stop-shop for event ticketing needs for conferences, galas, trade shows, and other credential-focused events.

“Ticketbud is delivering new and innovative tools so that event organizers can run all of their event registration and ticketing needs through one platform,” said Ticketbud CEO Kahyan Ahmadi. “This addition leverages Ticketbud’s robust event management and ticketing capabilities to expand into new event verticals, from large trade shows to exclusive VIP events, without compromising on customization.”

Each badge is printed using an industry-standard Zebra thermal printer (model 421 or similar) -- available for rent through Ticketbud. The printers connect via bluetooth to Ticketbud’s mobile ticket scanner. This makes it easy to print badges individually at check-in or in bulk ahead of time.

"In the past, check-in was challenging," said Eve Mason-O’Malley, co - owner and director of the Velocity Dance convention, a National touring dance convention that welcomes thousands of attendees each year. "With Ticketbud Badge Printing, check-in and registration were simplified, transforming a previously cumbersome process into a smooth experience.”

Customization is an option for event organizers who wish to include logos, sponsor information, or other details on each badge. This flexibility ensures event organizers can achieve a high-quality, professional look for their badges while promoting their event partners.

For added support, Ticketbud offers on-site assistance to organizers who need help maximizing the badge printing tool.

About Ticketbud:

Ticketbud and Ticketbud LLC are registered trademarks of Ideabud LLC, in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

Ticketbud Launches Ticketbud Payments, a More Affordable and Streamlined Payment Processor

Austin, TX – Ticketbud, a leading event ticketing platform, introduced Ticketbud Payments, a white-label payment processor, powered by a strategic partnership with Finix. This integration allows event organizers to seamlessly manage ticket sales, gain faster access to revenue, and benefit from a more cost-effective, secure payment system.

With daily payouts and the option to access revenue before their events, Ticketbud’ Payments gives event organizers quick access to their cash flow. Partnering with Finix in developing the white-label solution underscores Ticketbud’s commitment to empowering event organizers with the tools they need to run successful events.

“Event organizers need technology solutions that make it easier to manage their events,” said Ticketbud CEO Kayhan Ahmadi. “Integrating payment processing directly into Ticketbud makes it easy and fast for event organizers to get direct access to critical cash from ticket sale revenues.”

Ticketbud Payments Offers Competitive Processing Rates

Offering a highly competitive rate of 2.8% plus $0.30— below the industry standard of 3% plus $0.30 — Ticketbud’s white-label solution delivers significant savings for event organizers and attendees alike. By integrating payment processing directly with ticketing, Ticketbud ensures event organizers have a direct point of contact for all ticketing and payment needs, unlike third-party processors.

"With rising costs across the board—from insurance to vendor fees—it’s a big relief to finally see one of our core expenses go down,” said Clint Campbell, Austin Trail of Lights Representative. “Ticketbud Payments has been a game changer for us. Not only does it offer savings on transaction fees, but the seamless integration and fast access to funds have helped us manage our cash flow more effectively during our busiest season."

A Payment Processor Powered by Finix

Ticketbud’s partnership with Finix brings together a reliable, full-stack payment processor with the power to streamline event payment processes. Finix’s platform is built on scalable, secure technology designed for efficiency, offering the following key benefits:

Reliability and Uptime: The platform is backed by AWS with multi-region redundancy and frequent updates, ensuring minimal downtime and highly available services.
Scalability and Security: With its secure codebase, the solution can support the needs of events of all sizes, from small gatherings to large conferences, while maintaining data security and minimizing breakage points.
Fast, Intuitive Integration: Finix’s universal payments API is intuitive and quick to integrate, making it easy for Ticketbud to offer a consistent and streamlined payment experience to event organizers.

Event organizers using Ticketbud have the flexibility to either stick with their current payment processor or switch to Ticketbud’s white-label solution. Ticketbud will offer hands-on support to guide customers through the transition. Additionally, the platform is preparing to introduce mobile point-of-sale features, which will work seamlessly with the Ticketbud iOS and Android apps, enhancing the on-site payment experience for events.

Classic Game Fest: A Retro Gaming Phenomenon Powered by Ticketbud

In the world of retro gaming, where nostalgia meets the thrill of competition, one event has risen to become a must-attend for fans of classic video games: Classic Game Fest. What started as a small, in-store gathering has grown into a three-day extravaganza that draws thousands from around the globe. At the heart of this success story is David Kaelin, the founder of Game Over Video Games, a Texas-based retro gaming store chain with 14 locations. Through hard work, passion, and the right partnerships, David has turned Classic Game Fest into one of the largest events in the nation for retro gaming.

From Humble Beginnings to Major Event

David’s journey into the world of retro gaming began in 2005 when he opened the first Game Over Video Games store. As a lifelong fan of video games from the 80s, he saw an opportunity to share his love for classics like Atari, Super Nintendo, and Sega Genesis with others. Over the years, Game Over Video Games has grown into one of the largest retro gaming stores, with locations in Texas and Washington.

Classic Game Fest started as an offshoot of the store’s regular events, like tournaments and live video game music performances. Initially, it was a small, free event held at the store, attracting about 50 people. But each year, the event grew in size and scope. Soon, the store nor the parking lot could contain the excitement, and David began renting larger spaces to accommodate the increasing crowds.

By 2024, Classic Game Fest had expanded to a massive 100,000-square-foot venue, drawing between 10,000 and 15,000 attendees annually. The festival has become a mecca for retro gaming enthusiasts, offering everything from gaming tournaments to artist showcases, special guests, and much more.

Classic game fest draws in more than 10,000 attendees every year. — *_{Classic Game Fest 2024 included more than 100,000 square feet of retro video games and fun at the Palmer Events Center in Austin, Texas, July 19-21.}*

The Role of Ticketbud in Classic Game Fest’s Success

As Classic Game Fest grew, so did the need for a reliable and efficient ticketing system. In 2010, when the event moved to a larger venue, David began selling tickets to manage the influx of attendees. Over the years, he tried several ticketing providers but found a perfect fit with Ticketbud.

“I like that Ticketbud is based in Austin,” David says. “I’m comfortable with the setup and like supporting other Austin businesses.”

Ticketbud’s features have been instrumental in making Classic Game Fest a seamless experience for both organizers and attendees. The app’s universal compatibility with any device allows for easy check-ins, whether using the app or the website. David also appreciates the ability to increase ticket prices as the event approaches, encouraging early purchases and helping manage attendance.

“Getting paid quickly is a big plus,” David notes. “I also download reports for accounting—monthly sales, by ticket type. Being able to print clear reports each month is great for doing business tasks.”

Another standout feature is Ticketbud’s exceptional customer service. Whenever David has had an issue, whether it’s setting up a two-day event or tweaking the ticket layout, the Ticketbud team has been quick to respond and resolve the problem. “The Ticketbud team helps out probably once or twice a year,” David says. “It’s nice to know who I’m talking to and get the help I need.”

1970's and 80's gaming programmers attend Classic Game Fest 2024. — *_{David Kaelin stands with a group of legendary classic game programmers. (From left) Dan Kitchen, Garry Kitchen, David Kaelin, David Crane, Nolan Bushnell, and Brian Colin.}*

Looking Ahead: Planning for the Future

With each year, Classic Game Fest continues to grow, and David is already planning for the next event. The support from Ticketbud and the Game Over Video Games staff has been crucial in managing the event’s scale. From promoting the festival through the stores and social media to selling tickets both online and at the door, the combination of passion and the right tools has driven the festival’s success.

For anyone looking to grow their event, David has some advice: “It helps a lot to have a ticketing company that is easy to use. As you start to grow, you need something that can help you keep track of things—reports, creating QR codes on tickets. You need something that can help you when your event is growing and to scale.”

As Classic Game Fest continues to draw retro gaming fans from all over the world, it’s clear that the right partnerships, like the one with Ticketbud, have been key to making it a premier event in the gaming community. With the next festival already in the works, there’s no telling how far this celebration of classic gaming will go.

Run of Show Template and Guide

A run of show serves as your event's blueprint, guiding every aspect of production from start to finish, including activities happening behind the scenes. Below, we offer Ticketbud's 10-step guide to crafting and drafting your run of show, with a free template to get started. This run of show template will be key to developing a clear, detailed run sheet that keeps everyone on the same page and ensures all aspects of your event are executed flawlessly.

1. Gather Key Information

Before completing the run of show template, take a moment to envision your event and jot down its most important elements in set-up and programming. This will create a bird's-eye view of what a successful event looks like to you. Include details like:

Event Schedule: Confirm the start and end times, along with major segments of the event.
Participants: List speakers, performers, and key personnel involved (staff, volunteers, etc).
Technical Requirements: Identify AV needs, lighting cues, and other technical elements.
Venue Details: Note venue access times, layout, and any restrictions.
Event Set-up and Striking: Be aware of any time, equipment or direction needed to set up and strike the venue before and after the event, as well as during important transitions.

2. Break Down the Event into Segments

Use this information to develop your event programming and framework, divided into major segments or transitions. These moments will be anchor points you can use to draft an outline on your run of show template -- which you can download now below.

Setup: Details on load-in times, setup, and equipment or AV testing.
Arrival and Registration: Instructions for welcoming guests and checking them in.
Opening: Outline of the opening remarks or performances.
Main Program: Detailed schedule of key activities or presentations.
Breaks: Timing for intermissions or meal breaks.
Closing: Wrap-up activities and final remarks.
Breakdown and Clean-up: Any post-event procedures.

3. Download Your Run-of-Show Template

Ticketbud_Run_of_Show_Template Download

Use Ticketbud's run of show template to pull together your entire event timeline, including speaker assignments, transition cues, and set-up. Build and modify the template to capture the most important notes and details:

Time: Exact times and duration for each segment.
Activity: Description of what’s happening.
Speakers or Responsible Parties: Who is in charge of each activity.
AV Needs: Notes on any lighting, visual, or audio cues.
Additional Information and Resources: Supporting files and links to speeches, presentations, etc; or details on set-up configurations and transitions.

4. Assign Responsibilities

Clearly assign tasks to specific individuals or teams. For each segment, identify who is responsible for execution, technical support, and troubleshooting. This clarity helps prevent confusion and ensures accountability.

5. Include Technical Direction and Cues

Provide cues and details on any AV needs or technical enhancements like stage lighting, speakers, teleprompters, and screens. Include supporting links and back-up files -- we recommend also arming your AV team with a thumb drive and printed files, in case the wifi goes out.

Audio and Visual Cues: When to play specific tracks, videos, or slides; when to utilize microphones.
Lighting: Instructions for lighting changes or effects.
Stage Management: Cues for bringing speakers and presenters on and off stage.

6. Build in Buffer Time

Plan for contingencies by including buffer times between breaks and segments. This allows for unexpected delays and keeps the event on track. A run of show is internal, so participants will be none the wiser if a 15-minute break becomes 10-minutes due to an issue that has been mitigated behind the scenes.

making sure everyone on your team has reviewed and offered input on the run of show ensures nothing gets left out

7. Coordinate with Your Team and Participants

Share a run-of-show draft with event stakeholders working behind the scenes. And, get their input to ensure all details and responsibilities are clearly understood. Collaboration is key to creating a robust and successful plan. So, reserving time ahead of the event to share and discuss these details with managers, venders, and presenters will help everyone understand their role in pulling together a successful event.

8. Review and Rehearse

Conduct a full review of the run of show and make time to rehearse any key elements. This helps identify potential issues and ensures everyone is on board with the event's flow, as well as any last-minute changes. Make adjustments to the run-of-show template based on feedback and lessons learned from these activities.

9. Finalize and Distribute

Distribute digital and printed copies of the final run of show document to team members, vendors, and key participants. If your event is more complex, consider individualizing the copies for the recipients with highlighted annotations for quick reference.

Hire or assign and event coordinator to manage the event flow and communicate any changes during the event.

10. Designate an Event Coordinator

Assign a point person or event coordinator to manage adjustments and communicate changes to the team during the event. This person should be an excellent communicator who is adaptable and quick on their feet. The run of show will be their greatest tool in helping ensure your event's success.

Conclusion

Creating a run of show is a vital to ensuring that every event detail is accounted for, responsibilities are clear, and the event flows smoothly. By downloading Ticketbud's run of show template from the link above and following the guide, you can comprehensive run of show that will help make your event a success.

Tips and Ideas for Successful Back-to-School Events

As the summer winds down, excitement builds for a new school year. For many, this means planning a memorable back-to-school event that brings the community together and prepares families for the upcoming year.

So we’re offering four tips and ideas on how to create an event that sparks school spirit and gets kids ready to hit the books:

1. Host Engaging Activities

Planning back-to-school events means creating a fun and educational environment for the entire family. So, plan a variety of activities that cater to different age groups and interests. For best results, blend learning and play:

Book Exchange: Encourage reading by asking students to bring a book to trade with their classmates.
Carnival Games: Set up fun games like ring toss, bean bag toss, and duck pond. Offer small prizes for winners.
Craft Stations: Create stations where kids can make their own back-to-school crafts, such as decorating notebooks or making bookmarks. This is a great way to introduce them to their art teachers.
Photo Booth: Set up a themed photo booth with props and backdrops. It’s a great way for families to capture memories.
Live Entertainment: Hire local musicians, magicians, or storytellers to perform.
School Supply Drive: Organize a drive to collect backpacks and school supplies for students in need.
STEM Fair: Highlight the importance of science, technology, engineering, and math with interactive exhibits, science experiments, and robotics demonstrations.
Teacher vs. Student Games: Host a friendly competition between teachers and students in games like volleyball, basketball, or dodgeball. Have the P.E. coaches act as officials or referees.

Hosting a school supply drive is a great way to gather and give back to the community. — *Image by GAI's Consultants.*

2. Include Informative Sessions

School brings about new routines for both students and parents. To help prepare families for the change of pace, plan events that expose them to before-, during- and after-school activities and resources:

Educational Workshops: Offer workshops on topics like homework tips, healthy lunches, or digital safety.
Health Screenings: Introduce families to the school’s nursing staff and collect students’ health and emergency contact information. If possible, provide eye exams, immunizations, or checklists that help families navigate what to do if their child is sick.
Meet the Teachers: Arrange meet-and-greet sessions with teachers and school staff.
Resource Fair: Invite local organizations and businesses that offer tutoring or after-school programing and support to set up booths with information and resources for families.
School and Classroom Tours: Provide grade-level tours that prepare students on how to navigate the school halls and important rooms and offices.

Back to school tours help students get a feel for the campus and reduces first-day stress.

3. Recruit and Train Volunteers

Volunteers are essential for the smooth running of your back-to-school event. Recruit volunteers well in advance and provide them with clear instructions and training.

Parents, teachers, teacher-assistants, and older students all make great volunteers. Assign specific and appropriate roles, and ensure they know their responsibilities on the day of the event.

Recruit volunteers for the back to school event from your school's community and families.

4. Take Advantage of Ticketbud’s Free Ticketing Tools

Whether you’re a school administrator, PTA member, or a community leader, pinning event planning onto a long list of to-dos ahead of the school year can feel daunting. But with the right tools, planning a back-to-school event doesn’t have to be a stressful experience.

With Ticketbud, you have access to all the tools and resources you need to create a successful and memorable school event. From seamless event creation and ticketing to robust marketing and communication tools and detailed analytics, Ticketbud covers every aspect of event management – all on a collaborative platform where others can help out.

Start planning your back-to-school event with Ticketbud today, and make it one for the books!

Create an Event Website: A Comprehensive Guide for Event Organizers on Ticketbud

In today's digital age, an event's success hinges on the effectiveness of its online presence. So, it’s important to create an event website that serves as the central hub for general information, ticket sales, and attendee engagement.

At Ticketbud, we understand the critical role a well-crafted event website plays. Below, we offer a breakdown of the most essential information to include on your event’s website to keep attendees updated, informed and engaged. We also highlight how you can leverage Ticketbud’s free event site builder and full suite of ticketing features to help make your event a success.

1. Provide an Informative Event Overview

Essential Information

Event Name: Clearly state the name of your event at the top of the event website.
Date and Time: Include the exact date and time to ensure attendees mark their calendars correctly.
Location: Provide the venue name, address, and a map for easy navigation. .

Ticketbud Features

Customizable Event Pages: With Ticketbud, you can create a professional and visually appealing event page that highlights all the key details within minutes.

Click here to get started.

2. Write a Compelling Event Description

Essential Information

Overview: Provide a detailed description of what the event is about, its purpose, and what attendees can expect.
Highlights: Mention any special attractions, keynote speakers, performers, or activities.
Agenda: Offer a schedule or agenda so attendees know what to expect throughout the event.

Ticketbud Features

Rich Text Editor: Easily format and organize your event information to create an engaging narrative. Add images, videos, and links to highlight activities or speakers and bring your event to life.

3. Include Ticketing Prices and Descriptions

Essential Information

Ticket Types and Prices: Clearly outline the different ticket options, prices, and what each ticket includes.
Purchase Instructions: Make it easy for attendees to buy tickets with straightforward instructions.

Ticketbud Features

Flexible Ticketing Options: Create multiple ticket types, including early bird, VIP, and group tickets.
Timed-access and Multi-day Event Ticketing: Utilize the calendar feature to organize tickets by day or time slot.
Seamless Payment Processing: Securely process payments with Ticketbud’s integrated system, accepting various trusted payment methods.

4. Manage Registration

Essential Information

Registration Form: Collect necessary information from attendees through a well-executed registration process.
Confirmation and Follow-up: Ensure attendees receive a confirmation email and any follow-up information needed.

Ticketbud Features

Custom Questions: Create an online registration questionnaire with Ticketbud’s custom questions feature. Tailor the questions to specific ticket types to help prepare for attendee needs and expectations.
Automated Email Confirmations: Send ticket confirmation emails automatically after ticket purchase. Customize the ticket email with any pertinent event information, such as maps, access information, or sponsorships.

5. Inform Logistics and Accessibility

Essential Information

Travel and Accommodation: Provide information on nearby hotels, transportation options, and parking.
Accessibility: Ensure your event is inclusive by providing details on accessibility features and accommodations.

Ticketbud Features

Ticket and Calendar Widgets: Include a Ticketbud calendar or ticketing widget to any additional event resource page to make the ticket purchasing seamless.

6. Engage and Update

Essential Information

Social Media Links: Encourage attendees to connect with your event on social media platforms.
News and Updates: Keep your audience informed and excited with special announcements and updates.

Ticketbud Features

Social Share Buttons: Make it easy for attendees to share your event with others by including social share buttons on your event page.

Email Marketing Tools: Use Ticketbud’s built-in email marketing tools to send updates and reminders to your attendees.
Organization Landing Page: Create an organization landing page with more information on how to contact and stay engaged with your organization and its future events.

7. Offer Support

Essential Information

Frequently Asked Questions: Address common queries to reduce confusion and support requests.
Contact Information: Provide an easy way for attendees to reach out with additional questions or concerns.

Ticketbud Features

FAQ Section: Use the event page builder to add a comprehensive FAQ section to your event page.
Customer Support Integration: Ticketbud’s email and messaging tools allow ticket buyers to direct questions and organizers to manage responses directly through the ticketing platform.

Conclusion

Creating a well-rounded event website is crucial for the success of your event. By including all the essential information and utilizing Ticketbud's robust tools and features, you can create an engaging and informative event page that will help attract and retain attendees. Start planning your next event with Ticketbud today and see the difference a great event website can make!

Reinvigorate Your Class Reunion: a Three-step Planning Process

Planning a class reunion can be a rewarding experience, allowing old friends to reconnect and create new memories. But asking people to carve out time to reconnect with old classmates – who they may already be keeping tabs with on social media – may be a tough sell.

So, we’ve put together a few tips for class reunion organizers looking for ways to entice old classmates to reunite, reconnect, and celebrate the years gone by. Check them out below and get started planning your next reunion on Ticketbud today.

Step One: Pre-Plan Your Class Reunion

Form a Planning Committee: Create a committee of enthusiastic classmates. Distributing tasks among a group will make the planning process more manageable and bring in new, diverse ideas.

Set a Budget:. Determine how much to spend on the venue, food, entertainment, and other essentials. Read our budgeting guide here.

Choose a Venue: Select a venue that is convenient for most attendees and fits the event’s theme and size. Consider hotels, community centers, or even school premises if possible. Outdoor venues like parks can offer a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of space for activities. The venue availability will give you some date options.

Set a Date: Choose a date well in advance to give everyone ample time to make arrangements.

form a reunion planning committee with old classmates

Step Two: Partner with Ticketbud for Seamless Event Management

Ticketbud streamlines the planning and ticketing process for class reunions – from sending out invites and selling tickets to specific activities, to collecting attendee information and managing referrals.

Get started by creating your free event page at ticketbud.com. Then, take advantage of these all-inclusive ticketing features:

Easy Ticketing: Set-up ticket sales quickly and manage different ticket types (single tickets, partner tickets, drink tickets, and more).
Add Collaborators: Allow others on your reunion planning committee to access your event’s dashboard so you can divide and conquer ticketing, promotional, and reporting tasks.
Collect donations: If you want to encourage alumni to support a fundraising effort, you can also collect optional donations at the same time attendees purchase tickets.
Communications and Promotion Tools: Utilize built-in marketing and communications tools to spread the word via email and social media. Upload your class roster to email save the dates and event reminders directly from your Ticketbud site.
Real-Time Data: Access sales data and attendee information in real-time to track ticket sales and promotions.
Secure Transactions: Ensure safe and secure payment processing for peace of mind.
Easily Access Funds: Get early access to ticket funds to promote your event, pay vendors, and cover costs. You are in control of your funds with flexible payout options (daily, weekly, monthly) via secure payment providers.
Customer Support: Get assistance from a dedicated support team to address any issues or questions.

Step Three: Celebrate Memories and Make New Ones

Class reunions serve to keep classmates connected in the present and celebrate the past. So, consider incorporating both elements into your class reunion planning and promotions.

Before the event:

Create a Facebook Group: Invite all of your old classmates. Keep the group open for members to invite friends to ensure no one is left off the guest list.
Create an Event Page on Facebook and LinkedIn: Spread the word with your connections on social media so people can easily track down event details.
Post Throwback Content: Share photos, videos, newspaper clippings, etc from your times together in school and ask members and followers to do the same. Display these memories at the event.
Create a Survey: Ask guests what they’re up to now or create superlatives for people to vote on ahead of the event for trivia and ceremonial fun.

During the Event:

Cater in Class Favs: Seek out food options that remind you of yesteryears. Was there a restaurant where everyone would go to celebrate a big game win, or a lunchtime favorite? Try to keep food restrictions and preferences in mind.
Host a Bar: Everyone is now a legal drinking age, so pop a top and have a little fun.
Hire a DJ or Create a Playlist: Curate a list of popular songs from your days in school. Hosting a karaoke or time-period theme night may amplify the fun.
Hire a Photographer: Get group shots and consider recreating school photos. Pair the photos with old school headshots for a fun attendee souvenir.
Host a Photobooth: Encourage attendees to take group photos with fun props.
Offer Family Fun: Consider ways you can include your classmates growing families in the fun. For example, host a park day or movie night that is family friendly, or offer resources and recommendations for how children can spend their time during adult-only events.

After the Event:

Share Highlights on Social Media: Keep people engaged post-event by sharing photos and encouraging people to tag themselves.
Create a Momento: Put together all the photos from the event to create a printed and digital booklet from the event.
Thank Attendees: Email attendees a heartfelt thank you after the event and encourage them to stay connected with the class via social media. Ask if anyone would like to help organize the next one.

when hosting a class reunion, plan for lots of photo ops

Get Started

Careful planning and creative touches can turn a class reunion into an unforgettable event. By following these steps and partnering with a reliable ticketing service like Ticketbud, you can ensure a smooth and successful reunion that classmates will cherish for years to come.

Remember to take time with your event planning committee to choose a date, location and budget that make sense. Then, keep your team organized by leveraging Ticketbud’s features to take the stress out of ticketing, registration and logistics. This will keep your focus on planning a class reunion that is one for the ages.

Event Communication Best Practices: Before, During, and After the Event

In the world of event planning, effective communication is the linchpin that holds everything together. As an event organizer, embracing event communication best practices can significantly enhance attendee experience, streamline operations, and boost your event's success.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to mastering event communication tailored specifically for Ticketbud users.

Pre-Event Communication Best Practices

Build Anticipation

Start your communication early to build anticipation and keep potential attendees informed.

Event Website: Create a free event page with Ticketbud in less than 20 minutes. With the easy-to-use template you can customize the event page with the important event information, as well as add photos and videos that highlight the event experience.
Email Campaigns: Leverage Ticketbud’s email marketing tools to send out teaser emails, event highlights, and early bird ticket promotions. Personalized emails can significantly increase open rates and engagement.
Social Media: Use your social media channels to create buzz. Share behind-the-scenes content, speaker announcements, and countdown posts. Ticketbud’s integration with social platforms can help streamline this process. So, encourage attendees to use the social share buttons on your Ticketbud page to spread the word and stir up some excitement.
Referral Link Tracking: Use Ticketbud’s referral tools to create unique links for each of your communication channels. Doing so will provide a clear snapshot of where attendees are learning about and engaging with your event.

Provide Clear and Concise Information

Event communication best practices 101 is to ensure all your communications are clear and concise. Attendees should easily find information about the event schedule, location, parking, and any special instructions.

FAQs: Create a comprehensive FAQ section on your event page to address common questions.
Updates: Regularly update your event page and social media channels with any new information or changes to the event.
Consistency: Establish a clear brand and voice across your communication channels. Your event marketing and promotions should be easily recognizable no matter where your audience interacts with your content. To help, include your unique Ticketbud event page link across your content to direct your web, email, and social audiences to the source of all your event information.

Most pre-event communication with attendees can be done effectively using email

Communication Best Practices During the Event

Real-Time Updates

Keep attendees informed in real-time about any changes, such as schedule adjustments or venue directions.To take your event communications to the next level, consider adding a line in your ticket emails and event page about where guests can go for real-time updates.

Mobile Notifications: If you have an event app, utilize it to alert guests on schedule or location changes and other timely event updates.
Email: Utilize Ticketbud’s emailing tools to update guests on any major event changes. This includes the ability to customize this communication based on the attendees ticket type, if the information is only relevant to certain groups.
Social Media: Since it’s easily accessible to both organizers and guests, real-time updates are where social media shines. Encourage attendees to follow relevant channels for the most immediate event notifications.
On-Site Communication: Have clear signage at the event venue and a help desk to assist attendees with any queries.

event communication can be sent directly to attendee's phones if using email or an event mobile app

Continue Communication During Your Event

Communication doesn’t stop once the event starts. Keeping attendees engaged can enhance their experience, provide timely reminders, and encourage future participation.

Social Media Engagement: Use live tweets, Instagram stories, and Facebook posts to share live updates and encourage attendees to share their experiences.
Event App: If your event has an app, encourage attendees to use it for networking, accessing the event schedule, and participating in live polls or Q&A sessions.
Email Communication: Remind attendees that its event day, share enthusiasm for the day’s activities, this is particularly valuable for multi-day events.

Post-Event Communication Best Practices

Follow-Up

Post-event communication is crucial for gathering feedback and maintaining a connection with your attendees.

Follow-up Emails: Use Ticketbud’s email to send thank-you emails to all attendees, speakers, and sponsors. Express your gratitude and provide a summary of the event highlights.
Surveys: In your post-event emails, also include a link to an event feedback survey. Understanding what went well and what could be improved will help you plan better future events. Learn how free online tools can help.
Content Sharing: Share event content such as photos, videos, and presentation slides. This keeps the event alive in attendees’ minds and provides value even after the event has concluded.

Data Analysis

Analyze the data collected during the event to understand attendee behavior and preferences.

Ticket Sales Data: Use Ticketbud’s analytics to track ticket sales, peak purchase times, and attendee demographics. This information is invaluable for future event planning and communication.
Engagement Metrics: Review engagement metrics from your email campaigns, social media posts, and mobile app interactions to see what resonated most with your audience. And, don’t forget to check out the referral dashboard on Ticketbud to see which clicks converted to sales.

General Tips for Effective Event Communication

Effective communication is at the heart of successful event management. By implementing these best practices, you can ensure that your event runs smoothly, attendees stay informed and engaged, and you build a strong foundation for future events.

Consistency

Build a brand around your event and stick to it across all communication channels. This helps in building a recognizable and professional brand.

Personalization

Whenever possible, personalize your communication. Use attendees’ names in emails and tailor messages based on their preferences and past interactions.

Transparency

Be transparent about any issues or changes. Honesty builds trust, and attendees will appreciate your openness.

Technology Utilization

Leverage the full suite of Ticketbud’s features. From customizable event pages to detailed analytics, make sure you’re utilizing all the tools at your disposal to enhance your communication strategy.