The event marketing industry has come a long way since its early beginnings as an undervalued and often misunderstood discipline. Today, the brand experience plays a central role in the overall strategy of the marketing mix, thanks to individuals from a wide array of categories and brands who helped the industry get there.
After 20 years, Event Marketer has launched the Experiential Marketing Hall of Fame, an annual recognition of the individuals who have impacted the evolution and effectiveness of event and experiential marketing throughout their careers.
“From their leadership and belief in the power of live experiences to their bold ideas and executions in the field, we’re honoring the achievements of the industry’s most passionate advocates,” says Jessica Heasley, Event Marketer’s Group Editor & Publisher. “We’re thrilled to recognize the brand marketers and agency leaders who have impacted how the world strategizes, designs, produces and leverages live experiences.”
The inaugural 15 inductees were honored at Event Marketer’s Experiential Marketing Summit in Las Vegas in May 2023, during the Ex Awards Gala. Read more about them by clicking on their photos below.
Colleen Bisconti
Lou Bitonti
Fiona Bruder
Vivian Chen
Kim Davis
Kenya Hardaway
Mark Harper
Craig Johnson
Rich Lehrfeld
Scott McCune
Brett O'Brien
Paul Salinger
Deborah Wahl
Chris Weil
Tony Wells