The Basics: Password management company 1Password typically hosts an annual cruise conference for its global employees every year. So when COVID-19 restrictions made it clear that travel wasn’t happening in 2021, the team turned to event management company BIG HQ to recreate the event in a virtual world. The three-day digital conference, kicking off Feb. 9, allowed more than 400 attendees from 20 countries to set sail on a three-day cruise to Hawaii, Alaska and Los Angeles—virtually, of course—through tech platform JUNōO.
Photo: Courtesy of BIG HQ
Steal-Worthy Innovations: “For the past four years, 1Password has taken its employees on a real-life cruise to the Caribbean, and we wanted to keep the tradition alive,” explained BIG HQ CEO Bram Goldstein.
Each day began on the digital pool deck with live music, yoga and meditation, followed by keynote speakers and discussions. Attendees were encouraged to enjoy breaks on the pool deck where they could find unique networking opportunities, including games to play with colleagues and daily excursions. Then, each day ended with a social hour and team-building game before setting sail to the next destination. Thoughtful branding and the addition of life-like, personalized avatar characters brought extra elements of reality into the virtual space.
The team also incorporated human-like elements to the experience. “With the help of all attendees sending us videos of themselves dancing, clapping, singing and even doing the limbo at home, we created a number of uplifting preproduced music videos that became memorable surprise and delight moments throughout the conference,” said project manager Samantha Houser. There was also a corporate take on America’s Got Talent, where at-home attendees showcased their best talents for the judges. 
Photo: Courtesy of BIG HQ
Lessons Learned: Generating excitement about the cruise before it even took place proved a successful tactic for the team. "It was important for us to make attendees feel like they were a part of the show at all times," explained Houser. "The guest experience began when employees received packed custom duffle bags at their homes prior to the cruise ship’s departure. The bags included items to use each day at sea. This, along with a video message from our extremely entertaining captain, were the first steps in welcoming attendees and getting them excited for what was to come.”
BizBash's 10 Most Innovative Meetings 2021 is sponsored by Bevy, a community event engine fueling virtual, hybrid and in-person events.
