Rachel Keyes

Meeting Expectations, Inc.


After a trying year for event professionals. members of PCMA’s 20 in Their Twenties class of 2021 have proven resilience is a key skill in their toolkit. Rachel Keyes, Site Selection Manager at Meeting Expectations, Inc. in Atlanta, Georgia, shares her thoughts on what the pandemic fallout has taught her about the business events industry.

What has this year of disruption taught you about the industry?

Hospitality Strong! This is a phrase that has been said in the past and has never been truer. Our industry has always felt like a family. The value of these relationships is huge right now, especially for rebooking programs. We are all in this together and will only emerge stronger by working together as partners.

How do you see the industry changing as a result of the pandemic?

I think when it is safe, people will be ready to go back to face-to-face events, but technology is going to play a much larger role than it has previously. Also, wellness has become a huge trend in this industry, and we will continue to see that combined with other areas of health and sanitation moving forward.

What new skills have the pandemic led you to pursue?

Due to COVID-19 and eating at home more often, I have been trying more recipes. Making biscuits was a lot harder than I thought it would be, so I might stick to getting those from my favorite breakfast restaurant. Most recipes have been a success, though! I also coordinated a backyard wedding for a family friend. I never thought I would be a wedding planner, but in 2020 anything is possible.

Members of PCMA’s 20 in Their Twenties class of 2021 will be recognized virtually at PCMA Convening Leaders 2021, Jan. 11-15. Check out the complete program and register for Convening Leaders today.

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