Event Collaboration as a Clean Slate

We use the term event collaboration constantly in this industry—because it’s the foundation of what we do. Every project brings together a new mix of pros, perspectives, and priorities. And we do it again and again.

This piece is a bonus installment in the VendrHub Stronger Together series—number 5 of 4. Because when the conversation is this important, it deserves an extra chapter. And since collaboration sits at the center of how vendors and venues succeed together, we are also sharing it on VenuHub.

So let’s talk about collaboration—not the surface-level kind that looks good on paper, but the kind rooted in intention, curiosity, and a clear head. The kind that treats every event as a clean slate.

Why Every Event Is a Clean Slate for Collaboration

“When I first meet with potential clients, one of the first questions I ask is, ‘What did you love about your last event, and what would you have changed?’”
— Amy Lugowski, Owner/Strategy Wizard, HosDev Consulting

That single question reframes everything. It highlights what went right, what made the client feel supported, and who helped bring their vision to life.

It also opens the door for deeper insight: what stressed them out, what felt off, and what challenges could hold them back this time around.

Asking Better Questions Builds Stronger Event Teams

The event industry is both vast and tight-knit. We’ve all heard the rumors—who’s “always late,” who’s “difficult,” who’s “inflexible.” It’s easy to lead with assumptions. But that leaves no room for growth and no room for people to rise.

Every event is a clean slate. Every team is a new opportunity.

Letting go of preconceived notions is an act of leadership. It’s also a growth mindset—and, frankly, an act of care. Asking better questions and listening fully helps everyone.

“Sometimes that means bringing back trusted partners from a past success; other times, it’s about introducing new collaborators I know will exceed expectations and contribute to the seamless, team-driven experience we’re known for. Cultivating relationships, successful collaboration, and producing stunning events… this is what makes our industry unique, enjoyable, and at the end of the day… fun!”
— Amy Lugowski, Event Sales, Asterisk Denver

Trust and Collaboration Go Hand in Hand

Trust, teamwork, and collaboration have always been core to successful events. Back in 2018, PCMA published an article on how to build trust in teams, and the advice still holds up: tell the truth, listen deeply, communicate clearly, and share information consistently.

The same mindset applies when building vendor teams—especially when the stakes are high and the timeline is tight. Positive intentions, open communication, and active listening are the ingredients. This isn’t about reinventing your process; it’s about recognizing what already works and building from there.

Instead of rehashing who dropped the ball last time, ask how this event can feel smoother, stronger, more connected. Sometimes it’s not even a vendor—it’s the CEO of a massive company who caused the chaos. And when that happens, the boots-on-the-ground people—us—are the ones picking up the pieces and keeping the event on track.

How to Repeat Event Success Through Collaboration

At the end of the day, we’re supposed to be on the same team. When we fixate on what went wrong, we carry that weight into every room. When we focus on what went right, we create space for possibility.

There will still be hard days. There will still be messy moments, dropped details, and disappointments. But the beauty of this industry is that we get to do it again. And that? That’s pretty cool.

Amy’s approach reminds us:

• Build your teams based on trust, aligned values, and a track record of showing up.

• Bring back the folks who made it work.

• Introduce new collaborators with fresh energy.

• Never underestimate the power of creative problem-solvers—magic happens every day because of the people in events.

Wrapping Up

This is the “bonus track” of Stronger Together—the hidden fifth entry in a four-part series. Why? Because event collaboration deserves the extra spotlight. And check out week four on the how to avoid day-of changes that equate to dollars and stress.

Planning is hard enough. Life is short. Don’t start with stress—start with what’s worked, and build from there.

Tune in next week as we launch into the art of staying calm in the midst of a storm. Life vest, anyone?