Tips to Follow Event Trends for 2025 on a Small Budget

As we approach 2025, the event landscape continues to evolve with new trends focusing on technology, sustainability, accessibility and inclusivity. People are also looking for more personalised and immersive experiences. All good and well, I hear you say, but what is it going to cost me? I truly believe a lot can still be achieved on a small budget. With some creativity and strategic planning, you can stay on-trend without breaking the bank.

Read on to learn more about key event trends for 2025, along with tips for implementing them on a small budget. You can also contact me to go over your event plans and we can help with bespoke action plans.

1. Sustainability Becomes a Key Priority

Sustainability is no longer optional; it’s a must in 2025. According to Sustainable Event Alliance (SEA), audiences are increasingly expecting sustainability to be a top priority . From reducing waste to incorporating eco-friendly practices, sustainability is critical for future events.

Budget-Friendly Tips:

• Opt for digital tickets and apps to cut down on printing costs and waste.

• Use DIY or reusable decorations like rented plants or locally sourced materials. You can also do a call out to the community asking for donations of the materials you need. Someone's trash is often someone else's treasure.

• Partner with local suppliers to reduce transportation emissions..

  
  

2. Personalisation and Data-Driven Experiences

Personalisation is crucial for engaging attendees, and I need to emphasise the importance of using data to understand and tailor events to audience preferences.

Budget-Friendly Tips:

• There are a number of free survey tools like Google Forms to collect attendee data before the event.

• Offer personalised name tags or seating arrangements based on interests to create a more engaging experience without spending extra.

• Email automation tools like Hubspot can help send targeted, personalised messages. There are other free email marketing providers but Hubspot seems to allow the biggest number for free. (2,000 per month)

  
  

3. Hybrid Events Are Here to Stay

Hybrid events, combining in-person and virtual experiences, have solidified their place in the industry. Meetings & Events Australia (MEA) report that hybrid events expand reach, increase audience engagement, and improve flexibility for attendees.

Tips:

• Use free streaming platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, Teams or YouTube Live for virtual components. They all have different limits of attendees so you can pick the one that suits you best.

• Partner with local schools, or tech-savvy volunteers to help with the tech setup.

• Repurpose event content by recording sessions and making them available on-demand post-event for additional revenue or engagement.

  
  

4. Immersive and Experiential Elements

Gone are the days of passive event attendance. Immersive experiences whether it’s through technology like virtual reality (VR) or through interactive installations. Event-goers want to be a part of the action and want all their senses to be engaged. If you can provide a feast for the eyes, ears, nose, tongue and hands you will make a lasting impression.

Budget-Friendly Tips:

• Interactive stations or DIY activities, such as demonstrations, come and try sessions, tastings, and games are low-cost and encourage audience participation.

• Partner with local artists or performers to create visually engaging installations and decorations.

• Creative lighting and projections can transform spaces without needing expensive tech.

5. Increased Focus on Inclusivity and Accessibility

Inclusivity and accessibility are key trends for 2025, with Australian planners focusing on creating events that cater to diverse communities. VTIC points out that regional events, especially, are focusing on inclusivity and accessibility as they seek to engage broader audiences.

Budget-Friendly Tips:

• Offer sliding-scale tickets, concessions or options to volunteer for attendees who may not be able to afford the full price.

• Ensure venues are wheelchair and pram accessible and have gender-neutral restrooms and a changing area, which are often already built into many public spaces.

• Use free or low-cost closed-captioning services for virtual events.

• Create a sensory space to help participants manage sensory overload and calm down. This is beneficial not only for loud events or crowded spaces but also for those who may feel overwhelmed by strong visual stimuli, intense lighting, or even emotional experiences.

  
  

6. Health and Wellness Integration

Wellness trends are on the rise, with attendees increasingly looking for events that support both mental and physical well-being.

Budget-Friendly Tips:

• Provide healthy snacks like fruit and nuts or smoothies and infused water instead of expensive catered meals.

• Set up a quiet room with soft lighting for relaxation and meditation, using inexpensive décor like cushions and (borrowed) plants.

• Collaborate with local wellness practitioners to offer free yoga or meditation sessions.

  
  

7. Smaller, More Intimate Gatherings

There’s a growing interest in boutique-style events that foster deeper connections. Smaller gatherings can be more manageable and cost-effective. Keep in mind data gathering is essential to get to know your customer.

Budget-Friendly Tips:

• Host events in community parks, or indoor community spaces to save on venue costs.

• Focus on quality over quantity, smaller guest lists reduce catering, venue, and equipment costs and allows for meaningful interactions focused on personalised experiences. 

• Offer a custom gift on arrival or handwritten thank-you notes, adding a personal touch.

8. AI-Powered Event Planning

Event Tech Australia highlights the growing use of AI to streamline event planning. AI tools are becoming increasingly accessible, allowing event planners to automate tasks and enhance attendee engagement.

Budget-Friendly Tips:

• Use free AI chatbots like Hubspot for attendee support.

• Leverage free AI tools like Canva’s design features for creating event graphics, or use email automation software to streamline communication.

• Explore free project management tools like Trello or Asana to track event details.

  
  

9. Unique Venues and Outdoor Events

Unique venues can add a special touch to your event without the high price tag of traditional spaces. Whether outdoors or in creative spaces, unique settings enhance the attendee experience .

Budget-Friendly Tips:

• Think outside the box with parks, public gardens, and local community spaces, which are often more affordable than traditional event venues. Or even have a chat with a private property owner, possibilities are endless.

• Consider bartering with venues for exposure or in-kind services instead of paying full price.

• For outdoor events, create weather contingency plans on a budget: offer ponchos, rent tents*, or provide warming stations with fire pits to ensure guests are comfortable regardless of the weather. See our previous blog for more tips on how to weatherproof your event.

  * Make sure you contact your local council or other community groups as they often can help out with event materials such as marquees.

  
  

Events remain one of the most popular ways to engage with audiences. However, it’s important to stay ahead of the trends to ensure best return on investment. I hope these tips help you but feel free to contact me for a no-obligations chat about your ideas and needs. Our flexible pricing structure makes our services accessible to all.