b'A GUIDE TO PLANNING ACCESSIBLE MEETINGS Special considerations to ensure enjoyable experiences for everyoneby Kelly ParkerT a matter of routine, encompassingcan go a long way. Some attendees The world continues to adapt and provide accommodations for thoseseveral different areas of attention. may not feel comfortable asking for with disabilitiesnot only physical, butspecial consideration. also hearing or visual impairments,GET ATTENDEE INPUT Later on, at the registration stage, dietary restrictions, allergies,The first and most inclusive step inask participants what they need to breastfeeding and gender-basedthis planning process is the simplest:fully participate in the event, including needs. Too often in event planning,just ask. This, of course, will applyaccessibility and dietary needs. The accessibility is an afterthought, anddifferently based on the size of thesimple act of asking can signal an unintentional or invisible barriers cangathering. With a smaller gathering,openness to receive suggestions or be inadvertently created. Meeting andit may be as easy as emailing inviteesspecial requests now and for future event organizers need to incorporateearly in the planning stage, but evenevents. Provide contact information accessibility into their planning aswith larger gatherings, an email blastso guests can learn about the venues Spring/Summer 2022CORPORATE MEETINGS & EVENTS 17'