AIME AIME Preview 2018 | Page 8

T he AIME 2018 Welcome Event will focus on Melbourne’s festival culture, with Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) and Solution Entertainment collaborating once again to deliver the event which will act as the platform to launch Ormond Collective after undergoing refurbishments to the heritage listed building and gardens. To be held on Monday, February 19 the event will be a showcase of Victoria’s festival culture. The Art Deco Ormond Hall will be transformed into a kaleidoscope of colour, with various indoor and outdoor zones nodding to Melbourne’s music, theatre, dance and gastronomical festival virtues. Ticketing for the event is now limited to official exhibitors, Hosted Buyers, registered trade buyers and hosted media. This means that trade suppliers wh o are not exhibiting will no longer have access to the event, ensuring AIME exhibitors receive maximum opportunity to connect with buyers, according to Karen Bolinger, MCB’s CEO. “We heard the feedback loud and clear so have changed the ticketing to ensure we are providing even greater benefit to our important exhibitors and trade buyers,” she said. “The heritage of the AIME Welcome Event has always been one of networking and fun. Each year we are challenged to reimagine the event to ensure it still delivers on the business outcomes attendees expect, while creating an environment for celebration, and of course showcasing the best of Melbourne. “Solution Entertainment have proven that they have the capability, experience and energy to not only meet, but exceed the challenging brief we put to them.” Brad Hampel, director Solution Entertainment, said the bar has been set high for the AIME Welcome Event. “We’re committed to delivering another impactful and entertaining evening, with a few surprises along the way,” he said. “We understand this event requires a mixture of networking opportunities combined with fun so have designed the space to ensure attendees can tailor their experience to get the outcomes they are seeking.” Tickets are available to purchase through the exhibitor portal, or once registered as a trade buyer at www.aime.com.au 8  AIMEPreview 2018 FESTIVAL CULTURE SET TO WELCOME 20-2