Why great event design doesn't need to be complicated

I don't like big groups. Networking events? Yak. My instinct is to retreat. Hide. Avoid.

Part of the problem is that many events are poorly designed. But here's the thing – great experience design doesn't need to be complicated or expensive. Just thoughtful.

When XP Land invited me to their NYC event at The Shed this week (yeah, yeah, low key flex, sue me) I had the perfect excuse: Dad duty. Combined with my introvert tendencies, a polite decline was EASY.

But they did a couple of things that changed my mind.

First, they actively encouraged me to bring my 3-year-old along. Despite the swanky arts venue, people in fancy threads, and high-end cheese and salami platters, they made it clear he was welcome. So instead of finding an easy out, we embarked on an evening adventure through NYC’s beating heart.

The best bit? These little conversation cards they created. So simple, yet brilliant. An anchor. If you don't know anyone, you can just ask someone if they know any of the three people listed on your card.

And they'd really thought about it – considered each person, what they're like, what they're into, who might connect with whom. It makes you wonder - “Hmm, why did they pair ME with THESE people…?”.

They even made a 3-year-old's version and made sure the servers had a glass of milk available for him. Wonderful.

It cost practically nothing but made the evening for both of us.

Even though it was a lonnnng schlep home on the subway, it did remind me why it's good to say "Yes, and..." to the unexpected invitation - especially with a little one in tow. These are the memories and experiences that shape them. And me. Work and parenting don't always need to be separate worlds.

Thank you to the XP Land gang - Erica, Andrew, Lori and crew - for making it happen.

P.S. He ate a mountain of cheese, salami… and olives. And stashed a few chunks of cheddar in his stroller for breakfast. NYC hustle, perhaps.