Tuomas Järveläinen, Innovation Home's Events Business Specialist, has gathered insights from conversations with event organisers and customers about what kind of encounters and experiences are really expected at events today.
There is an increasingly clear need to break large-scale events into more approachable formats. Instead of everything revolving around one main stage, events are now built around parallel experiences such as small-group discussions, workshops, and more intimate networking areas.
This trend can be seen in the “side events” that have emerged around major events such as Slush and Nordic Business Forum. These micro-events often create the most meaningful conversations of all.
An event is no longer just a schedule of sessions or a moment for sharing information. It is an experience shaped by time, space, and emotion. The key factor is emotional impact, that lasting feeling that stays with participants and makes the event and its message memorable long after it ends.
It is also essential that the experience can be tailored to reflect the organizer’s identity. The best events create a unique atmosphere where the organization’s culture and voice are clearly present.
The boundaries between work, learning, and networking are becoming increasingly blurred. Events are no longer seen as “extra activities” but as a critical part of professional development. Technology plays a supporting role, but the focus is on human interaction: shared thinking and meaningful experiences.
Participants continue to expect easy accessibility and effortless participation as part of a busy working life. At the same time, the venue must feel special. People are looking for experiences that are close by, yet clearly distinct from a typical office day.
One clear observation is that formal settings are being replaced by a more relaxed, human, and positive atmosphere. Especially during the summer season, people are looking for a freer rhythm and lighter energy for connecting, often outdoors as well. Festival-inspired events are a strong trend, characterized by easy movement, modern food experiences, and programming that leaves room to breathe.
A relaxed atmosphere is a strategic choice. It not only lowers the threshold to attend, but also encourages natural networking and genuine interaction.
The market has clearly shifted: decisions are made faster and booking lead times are shorter. Where planning used to start months in advance, even larger events are now being organized on much tighter schedules.
This requires a new level of agility from event partners and highlights the importance of ready-made, flexible concepts as well as the role of professionals as sparring partners. A deeper understanding of the client’s needs ultimately leads to better events.
Our experts are happy to help you create an event that reflects the latest trends, where the venue, catering, and atmosphere all support your goals. Book a sparring session with Tuomas.
Innovation Home provides event services where inspiring spaces, in-house catering, and a carefully curated atmosphere come together. In Helsinki, our event venues are located in the heart of Kamppi, offering inspiring indoor spaces as well as a hidden courtyard. In Tampere, we also operate the meeting and event center Finlayson Meetings, set in a historic downtown environment.