Level Up Your Lead Gen Game: Virtual vs. In-Person Events

Hosting events is one of the most overlooked ways to generate leads, build relationships, and position yourself as a leader in your industry. Whether it’s a virtual summit or an in-person retreat, the power of bringing people together is unmatched when done with intention. But deciding between a virtual or in-person event can feel daunting—especially if it’s your first time hosting. The good news? Both options can be impactful, profitable, and transformative.

Let’s break down the benefits of each and how to choose the right fit for your business goals.

Why Consider Going Virtual?

Virtual events have been a game-changer for businesses, especially in the last few years [we can thank Covid for that]. We have gotten creative with our use of virtual spaces and they’ve made it possible to reach a global audience without the hefty price tag or logistical challenges of traditional events. Here are some of my favorite reasons to host a virtual experience.

Benefits of Virtual Events

1. Global Reach

Virtual events break down geographical barriers. Your audience can tune in from anywhere—whether they’re in New York or London. I remember when my virtual summit reached some in Canada and I was so amazed at the power of bringing people together with a little ol' event. This kind of accessibility expands your reach and opens doors to building an international network. We you think of your business and the impact you want to have are you thinking globally? Hosting a virtual event puts those goals into reality.

2. Cost Efficiency

One of the biggest advantages of virtual events is their affordability. You don’t have to worry about venue rentals, catering, or travel costs. This makes virtual events ideal for business owners looking to make a big impact on a lean budget. My tips is that with the money you're saving from not hosting your event in person, invest in high-quality production, engaging speakers, or post-event follow-ups to keep attendees engaged.

3. Convenience and Flexibility

Your audience can join from anywhere, fitting your event into their busy schedules. Offering recordings allows those who can’t attend live to still access the content later, ensuring no one feels left out. Although you may make recordings available, I would market to your audience that nothing beats showing up live to reap the benefits of connecting virtually or the excitement of the live event.

The Power of In-Person Events

While virtual events offer scalability, there’s something irreplaceable about being in the same room with your audience. The energy, the connections, and the immersive experiences leave attendees buzzing long after they’ve left. I still have people you bring up an event that I hosted 3 years ago, because that's how impactful the experience was.

Benefits of In-Person Events

1. Deeper Personal Connections

Face-to-face interaction fosters genuine relationships. Attendees connect not only with you as the host but also with each other, creating a sense of community that’s hard to replicate virtually. Besides, if your audience is women, you know most of us want a reason to show up and show out. I see women who are still friends today who met at the first event I hosted in 2019. Sharing meals, participating in group activities and engaging in deeper conversations often results in lasting bonds.

2. Immersive Experiences

When people engage their senses—sight, sound, touch, and even smell—they’re more likely to have a memorable experience. In-person events allow you to create an environment that captivates and excites attendees. Think of ways to make your event sensory-rich. From the aroma of fresh coffee to the lights and installations, every detail matters.

3. Higher Engagement Levels

At in-person events, attendees are more likely to be present and focused. Distractions like email and social media take a backseat, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in the experience. Higher engagement leads to attendees being more bought in to you and what you're offering.

Key Questions to Ask Yourself Before Deciding

Still unsure which event format is right for you? Here are some questions to guide your decision-making process:

1. What Are My Goals?

   • Do you want to build a tight-knit community, generate leads for an offer, or position yourself as an expert?

   • Virtual events are great for scalability and brand visibility, while in-person events excel at deepening relationships and creating immersive experiences.

2. How Big Is My Audience?

   • If your audience is still growing, a virtual event might be a better fit. It allows you to cast a wider net without needing to fill a physical room.

3. What’s My Budget?

   • Virtual events tend to be more cost-effective, but don’t overlook the potential ROI of a well-executed in-person event.

4. Who Is My Audience?

   • Are they tech-savvy and comfortable joining online, or do they prefer the personal touch of face-to-face interactions?

5. What’s the Purpose of the Event?

   • Is this event leading into an offer, or is it primarily for networking and community-building? The answer can influence which format will best serve your goals.

How ElluminateHER Can Help

At ElluminateHER, we know that hosting an event—whether virtual or in-person—is a big deal. That’s why we’re here to support you every step of the way. From attendee concierge services to strategic event planning, our goal is to help you create an event that aligns with your vision and achieves your goals.

We specialize in:

• Designing experiences that leave your audience inspired and engaged.

• Streamlining the planning process so you can focus on what matters.

• Crafting strategies to maximize profitability without sacrificing quality.

The Bottom Line

Both virtual and in-person events have the power to transform your business. The key is to align your event format with your goals, audience, and resources. No matter which path you choose, remember that the most impactful events are those designed with intention and purpose.

Ready to host an event that elevates your brand and connects with your audience on a deeper level? Let’s talk. Schedule a complimentary discovery session with ElluminateHER today, and let’s bring your vision to life.