How Did We Make the San Francisco Business Times Fast 100 List?

It’s a good reminder to stop and celebrate good news, especially when the news is unexpected. And it’s a great opportunity to reflect and take stock.
Teambuilding

We were pleasantly surprised by our recent inclusion in the San Francisco Business Times Fast 100 list. Surprised and delighted, because we certainly didn’t expect it. This unexpected honor was just that. A genuine surprise that naturally made us wonder… how exactly did we get here? It wasn’t as easy to answer as you might expect, until we realized the things we’ve been doing all along are the reasons we’ve found success in the here and now.

This is not just a story of our achievements, then. It’s an invitation to understand the essence of what makes Metavent a unique and successful player in the events industry. From our client and attendee-focused philosophy, to our Ask & Listen strategy that shapes every event we craft. Or the wealth of experience in our systems and processes designed by CEO, Anna Rembold and Director of Events, Emily Davis. With over 4 decades of industry experience between them, these two powerhouses drive intuitive and tailored event experiences that resonate with clients and attendees alike.

All of which is why we're diving in — taking a closer look at our systems, processes, strategies, team and company culture. Exploring how each has contributed to our growth. In ways we’ve always known are valuable, but hadn’t realized were Fast 100 valuable!

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1. Client and Attendee Focus

Putting the client and attendee experience first is a cornerstone of Metavent's philosophy. A significant factor in our growth and success because it is embedded in everything we do. 

From sales kick-offs to incentive trips, Metavents are tailored to celebrate and motivate teams, ensuring each is an unforgettable experience. Our executive offsites and team offsites go even further — transforming ordinary gatherings into extraordinary experiences that inspire and align. Which is just another way of saying that every decision, plan and execution is done with the client and attendee in mind.

Ask & Listen

Our journey with every client begins with our Ask & Listen strategy. It’s simple: we engage in meaningful conversations with our clients to understand their vision. Listening to their needs and expectations. Crucial steps to set the tone for the entire event.

Asking the right questions puts Metavent in a position to understand clients’ hot buttons, event objectives, and attendee personalities. Building trust and ensuring the event is designed with their experience top of mind. Aligned with the client's objectives and attendees' preferences.

It’s always time to Ask & Listen, which is why we use it as part of a holistic, empathetic approach. Coming back to it throughout the event planning process. Eliminating assumptions and making client-focused decisions at every stage. Elevating events from generic to unique through specificity and personalisation. Allowing us to design events that attendees feel are crafted specifically for them.

Details, Details, Details

We all know details matter. Knowing what details to focus on and why is where our expertise comes into play. Every element of a Metavent, from the thematic decor to the choice of menu, the venue layout and event flow, are all chosen and designed with precision. Details transform an event from ordinary to extraordinary, and yes, every detail really does count.

We set up our clients and partners for success because not paying attention to details often means something at the event gets overlooked, abandoned, or missed. Without thorough planning and operational excellence, the event becomes a drain. Which is one more reason why our Ask & Listen strategy goes such a long way to ensuring event success. The more we know about what’s driving our clients’ needs and wants, the better we can satisfy them with solutions their attendees will love.

Best-in-Class Operations

The final layer in our approach is operational excellence — where our planning and attention to detail come to life. Including case-by-case contingency plans, of course. So events run smoothly, no matter the hiccups. We also shield attendees from logistical hassles — leaving their attention undivided. Allowing the event’s content, learnings, and networking to have a greater, long-lasting impact.

We also treat attendees like friends we've known forever. Creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere at every stage of their journey — from smiles at the hospitality desk to tenacious resolution of any challenges. Served with a healthy dose of fun, always.

2. Amplifying Human Connection

This isn’t a tagline. It’s a mission that permeates every aspect of life at Metavent. Rooted in the belief each event can forge something memorable and impactful. Understanding the heart of any successful event is the power of human connection. With no one size fits all approach, of course, because there’s no cookie cutter for amplifying human connection. In saying that, we bring decades of experience to every action, plan, process and procedure. Ensuring Metavents amplify human connection in ways that make sense for you and your team.

Here are some of the ways Metavent amplifies human connection:

  1. Our intuitive SaaS-delivered platform allows for effortless administration and functionality during virtual meetings. Fostering human connection by enabling seamless interaction among participants.
  2. We combine strategic focus and rewards to create extraordinary executive offsites. Inspiring and connecting the C-Suite in profound ways.
  3. We transform team offsites into extraordinary experiences that build a sense of unity and connection among team members.
  4. Our sales kick-offs are designed to motivate and inspire. Transforming sales teams' efforts with experiences that fuel their growth. Combining education, training, and motivation to celebrate and enlighten.
  5. Empowering brands with inventive customer events leveraged by innovation, creativity and technology.
  6. Amplifying team connection and company culture through astounding experiences. Designed to foster a sense of unity among team members with plenty of wow moments they’ll never forget.

3. Innovation and Learning

At Metavent, innovation and learning are the pillars of our approach to event planning. Driven by a relentless pursuit of the latest trends and technological advancements. This dedication is a fundamental part of our growth strategy, ensuring that our team is not only equipped with cutting-edge skills but also positioned to lead and innovate in the event planning sector.

Embracing Technological Advancements

We're not just using technology; we're reimagining and amplifying it to suit the unique needs of the events industry. Our approach involves taking advanced software from various industries and adapting it to create unparalleled event experiences. This strategy keeps us ten steps ahead. And agile, too. Both critical benchmarks for success when it comes to tech of any kind.

Solving Challenges with Virtual Event Technology

Our approach to virtual events at Metavent is all about tackling challenges head-on. Transforming them all into opportunities for growth and innovation…

  • Dynamic Environments: Utilizing our SaaS-delivered platform, we create virtual spaces that are not just functional but also aesthetically pleasing. These environments are designed to host guests in settings that are both unique and beautiful, enhancing the overall event experience.
  • Immersive and Cinematic Experiences: We've elevated the standard of virtual events by incorporating cinematic elements and enhanced audio features. This approach ensures a more immersive experience, making virtual events feel as engaging and interactive as in-person gatherings.
  • Integrated Video Conferencing and Live Streaming: Our platform offers fully integrated video conferencing and live streaming capabilities. This seamless integration means no external link-outs, providing a smooth and uninterrupted experience for attendees.
  • Customization and Branding: Recognizing the importance of personalization, we empower event planners with the tools to fully customize and brand their events. This feature eliminates the dependency on external resources, making the Metavent process more efficient and user-friendly.
  • Efficiency in Event Building: Our platform is designed for ease of use, allowing event planners to build and customize their events in just hours. Catering to planners with varying levels of technical expertise.

Our commitment to innovation and learning is about more than staying current; it's about leading the way in the event planning industry. Our technical solutions are intuitive and tailored to create experiences that resonate with clients and attendees alike.

4. Team Dynamics and Culture

Each team member at Metavent has stories of memorable experiences that underscore the company's unique approach. From tackling new challenges to creating innovative solutions for clients, these experiences are not just about delivering successful events; they're about personal and professional growth, about pushing boundaries and redefining what's possible in event planning.

Dallas Bradley: The Humor and Trust Factor

"They make me laugh. And I trust them to do what they say they are going to do," says Dallas Bradley — Metavent's Special Projects Assistant. And that simple yet profound statement captures the essence of our team dynamics. A blend of humor and trust that has unexpectedly become one of our greatest strengths. This ethos of laughter and reliability is more than just creating a pleasant workplace; it's about forging a team that's resilient, adaptable, and deeply committed to each other's success. Where trust is not just a word, but an action, a commitment lived out in day-to-day operations… with plenty of laughter from A to B to Metaventfulness. Dallas also touches on the essence of our mission, stating that it's about "going beyond the obvious to connect people in a meaningful way," a philosophy that has been pivotal in our approach to event planning.

  • Trust and Collaboration: The essence of teamwork at Metavent. This environment of trust is not just about believing in each other's capabilities but also about a shared commitment to deliver on promises — a crucial factor in the high-stakes world of event planning.
  • A Scrappy, Versatile Approach: Flexibility and adaptability define our work culture. Indispensable qualities in the event planning industry. And the team's ability to pivot and embrace new challenges head-on is not just a strategy but a way of life at Metavent.
  • Actionable Insight: Create a work environment where trust and humor are paramount. Encourage open communication and celebrate small wins to foster a positive team spirit.

Doug Bailen: Innovation and Problem-Solving

Doug Bailen, the Creative Architect and 3D Designer, brings an innovative lens to the team's problem-solving approach. "I love that we work together to solve real problems," he reflects. This collaborative spirit, coupled with a unique balance of “agility and curiosity”, is what Bailen thinks sets Metavent apart from its contemporaries. It's not just about finding solutions; it's about pushing the boundaries of creativity and technology to redefine what's possible in event planning, which, as Doug notes, helps us identify meaningful “ways for clients to express themselves”.

  • Collaborative Problem-Solving: Tackling real-world challenges with innovative solutions is key to our success, because challenges are not roadblocks but opportunities for innovation. They should be treated as such. Curiosity is a necessity and pivotal in Metavent’s event planning approach, where each new project is a canvas for ingenuity.
  • Agility and Curiosity: A rare and invaluable combination. Allowing the team to adapt to changing circumstances while continuously seeking out new and better ways of doing things.
  • Actionable Insight: Encourage team brainstorming sessions for problem-solving. Promote a culture where every idea is valued, fostering a sense of ownership and collaboration. And don’t silo any of your ideas, because they may not fit where you planned but you never know where they might find themselves useful.

Emily Davis: Tenacity and Fun in Execution

Emily Davis, the Director of Events, brings over two decades of experience to Metavent. Her approach is deeply rooted in understanding the client's vision and transforming it into a tangible, mesmerizing experience. 

Emily's expertise lies in her ability to foresee and navigate the complexities of event planning, ensuring that each aspect of an event is executed flawlessly. Her dedication to client satisfaction is evident in how she meticulously oversees every detail, from the initial concept to the final execution. Ensuring every event is not just a task but an adventure in creativity and excellence.

"We have fun while working tenaciously to service our clients & their attendees with best-in-class planning & execution," Emily says. Underlining our commitment to delivering top-notch event experiences while maintaining high team morale. A crucial balance in the high-stakes world of event planning, where the pressure to deliver is high, but so are the rewards of a job well done.

  • Balancing Fun and Hard Work: A unique blend that fuels Metavent's event planning — event planning is no mean feat, so making the process fun becomes even more important.
  • Excellence in Execution: Every event is an opportunity to deliver best-in-class experiences, a philosophy that has become a hallmark of Metavent's service.
  • Actionable Insight: Balance workload with team-building activities. Ensure that while the team works hard, they also have opportunities to unwind and bond.

Channa Harrington: Collaboration and Growth

Channa Harrington, Event Manager, emphasizes the camaraderie: "Metavent fosters a collaborative environment and genuinely wants to see each other succeed and grow," she notes. This focus on collective success and personal growth is a hallmark of Metavent's culture and the key to our innovative approach.

  • Fostering Growth and Success: The collaborative environment at Metavent is key to our success. No idea gets siloed, meaning every good idea can seed another… including the half-baked ones that only turn good once the right connections are made.
  • Core Values in Action: Metavent's values shape our operations and client interactions from the ground up. These are not just words on a page but guiding principles that inform every decision, every plan and execution.
  • Actionable Insight: Implement mentorship programs and regular feedback sessions. Encourage employees to set personal growth goals and provide resources to help achieve them.

Anna Rembold: Crafting a Unique Culture

At the helm of Metavent is CEO and Founder Anna Rembold, whose leadership style is deeply rooted in her passion for people and events. She describes the team's culture as one filled with passion, humor, and a complete lack of drama. "The complete acceptance of who each other are," as she puts it, is not just about tolerance but about celebrating individuality and leveraging it for collective success. An everyday aspect of life at Metavent with profound impact outside the office, too. Filtering through every Metavent in remarkable ways that leave many in awe of the unexpected. Anna recalls a moment when a customer at a VIP event told her,  "I thought I was going to a work event where we would have boring small talk, and what I got was incredible, deep connections and a meaningful experience."

Under Anna's guidance, Metavent has developed systems, processes, and procedures that are uniquely tailored to enhance human connection. Her leadership ensures that every event is a reflection of the client's culture and brand, making each experience distinctively 'Metavent.' Anna's commitment to excellence is not just about meeting expectations but exceeding them. Seeding every event as an opportunity to build relationships, foster connections, and create lasting memories.

  • Building a Drama-Free, Passionate Team: The ethos of Metavent under Anna's leadership. Which not only shaped the company's culture but has also been instrumental in its success.
  • Personal Connections and Core Values: The foundation of Metavent's operational philosophy.
  • Actionable Insight: Create a culture of inclusivity where every team member feels valued. Recognize and celebrate the unique strengths and perspectives each person brings to the table.

5. The Metavent Difference

As we reflect on Metavent's remarkable inclusion in the Fast 100, it's not just a moment to celebrate our achievements. It’s an opportunity to look back with a clear-sighted vision of how we got here. As well as looking forward with anticipation and curiosity. 

The Future: A Canvas of Possibilities

The future for Metavent is an expansive canvas, waiting to be painted with bold ideas and transformative experiences. Our journey into the Fast 100 has reinforced our belief in the power of continuous innovation and adaptation. 

Evolving Systems and Processes

We don’t believe in static frameworks. Metavent will always be adapting to the changing needs of our clients and the industry. We plan to delve deeper into refining these systems, ensuring they are more intuitive, efficient, responsive and agile. A seamless synergy between technology and the human touch. Where each event we craft is a blend of innovation and personalization.

A Commitment to Growth and Learning

As we chart our course for the future, our commitment to growth and learning remains unwavering. We see our team as the architects of our success, and their growth is integral to our journey ahead.

Onward and Upward

As we look to the future, we are filled with a sense of excitement and determination. Ready to explore new possibilities, refine our systems, and continue creating events that exceed expectations. The future is bright, and we’re eager to embrace it with open arms. Ready to write the next Metaventful chapter in our story of success.

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