Here are a few lessons I’ve picked up from working at events, premiering Spartacus, promoting Manga Entertainment, and supporting YouTube creators like How It Should Have Ended:

– Intimacy drives engagement: While I’ve worked at major events like San Diego Comic-Con and SXSW, I’m increasingly inspired by how boutique media brands like Puck create value through exclusive, intimate gatherings. Their subscriber-only dinners and policy roundtables prove that sometimes a room of 30 engaged participants can generate a different kind of impact.

– Events can drive your content ecosystem: Live gatherings generate content that can energize your digital strategy. When Oxygen pivoted to true crime, they didn’t just sponsor CrimeCon—they turned it into a content goldmine, hosting panels and talent appearances that fed directly into digital channels.

– Revenue opportunities are evolving: While traditional models like ticket sales and sponsorships work for large events, I’m seeing innovation in how boutique brands monetize gatherings. Some offer tiered membership levels with exclusive event access, while others create intimate paid experiences that complement their digital offerings.

Start small but think big. Plan your strategy and be clear about your goals. You could gather your fans at an existing event or create an intimate and local meetup. Don’t hesitate to bring in event planning experts — the right professional can turn your vision into reality.

What kind of event would energize your community?