CHICAGO — Three new books, all written by industry veterans, focus on different aspects of the events world: Inside Live Events by Bob Priest-Heck and Carrie Freeman Parsons; The Invisible Industry: The Evolution of Trade Shows by Larry Kulchawik and Bob McGlincy; and In-Person: A Journey Through the Unstoppable Evolution of Events by Enrico Gallorini.
Inside Live Events is billed as the playbook for creating impactful, meaningful live events. Who would know better than Priest-Heck, former CEO of Freeman, and Freeman Parsons, Chair of the Board? Their decades of experience shine through on every page and touch on all aspects of event planning, from building your team, to sponsorships, exhibiting and production, all the way through to post-event evaluations.
“We’ve seen firsthand the power of bringing people together to explore innovative ideas, grow businesses, advance education, improve the art and science of healing, and create memories that last forever. Events enable people to come together in synergistic ways,” said the co-authors in the Introduction. “Our goal is to help make every gathering that connects people more meaningful.”
So far, the book has been well-received, Freeman Parsons said. “The response has been gratifying. I’ve heard from event pros who hope the book will become part of the curriculum for schools that offer event/hospitality programs. I’ve heard excitement about its value as a tool for bringing the next generation up to speed. And as a reference for understanding different areas/roles in the industry.
“But overwhelmingly, people tell me that they are excited to have a book that champions our industry. They enjoy it as an affirmation that what we do — fostering live connection — is work that matters.”
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For decades, industry leaders have attempted to quantify the impact of the events industry to the greater business world — and the general public. The Invisible Industry: The Evolution of Trade Shows tells the story of this powerful economic engine, which has created millions of jobs, billions in tax revenues and hundreds of billions in business sales. Topics include the rise of key convention center cities, venues, organizations, and the suppliers and the game-changers who shaped the industry.
Jim Wurm, Director of the Exhibit Appointed Contractors Association, described the book’s greatest accomplishment — finally making a formerly invisible industry visible, after many past attempts by different groups.
“Tens of thousands of event professionals commit themselves annually to the face-to-face marketing medium in relative obscurity, as compared to more traditional marketing options,” he said. “Larger than the U.S. auto industry, the event industry brings buyers and sellers together dynamically for the opportunity to engage, to learn and to develop powerful new relationships.”
In-Person: A Journey Through the Unstoppable Evolution of Events by Enrico Gallorini looks to the future, drawing on historical insights, personal experiences and emerging trends to create his vision. The thought-provoking book is a journey into why events matter more than ever, and how they can be used to foster genuine transformation in an increasingly complex world.
So far, his vision has been well-received by readers, Gallorini said. “One of the most common comments I receive is that In-Person offers an elevated and refreshing perspective on the role of events. Readers appreciate its innovative approach: delivering deep, insightful content in a way that’s both engaging and thought-provoking. It reaffirms the enduring importance of in-person experiences in our digital age, while inspiring creative and strategic action.”
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