Is it me or are event promoters being lazy?

Is it me or are folks getting lazy with professional event invites?

Specifically, not providing details on the format and what your ticket price gets you?

It seems that most of the event invites include date, time, location and cost. And that’s it.  

A recent marketing association event was held from 6 – 8 p.m. It was billed as a place to make connections, and that’s it. NO other information was provided.   A friend went and told me boxed meals (sandwich, chips etc.) were provided and tables were reserved for various companies. None of this is conducive to active networking.

I’m attending an event tonight at a restaurant from 6 – 8 p.m. and have no idea what to expect.

Some of the things I – and I assume other attendees  – would like to know:

 

  • Is it a facilitated networking event?
  • Or is it a come and go as you please and meet folks?
  • Will there be a speaker? If so, what time?
  • Is there a registration period before the event and is there a cut off?
  • Is there an agenda?
  • Will there be vendors? Exhibits?
  • Raffles, giveaways?
  • Who will be there?
  • How many are expected to attend?
  • What are the expected take-aways?
  • Will there be refreshments available? Soft drinks, water?  Wine and beer? Cocktails? Included or cash bar? Or a drink ticket or two?
  • Buffet style cheese and crackers? Passed hors d’oeuvres?  Finger foods or plated stuff?

As an event planner I include all of this information.  Is being sketchy on the details a new thing? Am I missing something?

There are a lot of events competing for my time. And while I am super grateful and excited to be attending in person, more information would be extremely helpful in deciding which ones are worthy of my time and money.