FORREST — Event professionals from across Mississippi are gathering March 10-11 for Emerge Events’ “Connect & Emerge: Event Planning Conference” at Pearl River Community College’s Woodall Advanced Technology Center. 

The two-day conference brings together professionals from across the events industry, including planners, venue managers, caterers, rental companies, designers, marketers, nonprofit leaders and corporate teams. 

Jennifer Clark, owner of Emerge Events, said the conference offers practical guidance for people planning events at any level. 

Sessions cover event planning strategy, sponsorship development, marketing, budgeting, design, safety and industry regulations. Attendees will also hear behind-the-scenes insights from professionals involved in producing events, including chefs and caterers. 

“We try to bring a variety of sessions, anything and everything that almost any event planner, or whatever kind of event you’re planning, can benefit from,” Clark said. 

This year’s conference features an influencer panel with Ashley E. Jones, Jenny Smith — known online as “Mississippi Meemaw” — and Lindsey Ham. Clark said the session will help attendees understand how influencers can promote events online. 

Clark said organizers hope the conference continues to grow into a regional event. 

“The more people in the room, the better we can share ideas, collaborate and get ideas from people doing similar things in different areas,” Clark said. 

More information and registration are available through Emerge Events.