When I read the Sunday Star Times social pages I often think that’s probably what some people think I do for a living – attend parties with beautiful people all the while sipping Veuve Clicquot.

PR and events seem to go hand in hand – they’re a great way to deliver key messages to an audience of interested people and if you can get media photographers along then can also get coverage in the social pages so the people who didn’t attend wish they had.

I began my career in museums and galleries, creating experiences (that’s exhibitions to you) and I see events as something similar. A good event is well thought out, is clear in its purpose, it tells a story and delivers the recipient an experience – whether that’s learning, networking ‘being seen’ or stepping outside the usual routine. 

Last week and this, I’ve been organising the second annual Ideas Shop BarCamp. It’s the kind of PR event that you won’t find in the social pages but that receives rave reviews from participants and leaves everyone a little bit wiser and a lot more connected. 

A BarCamp is an event where the participants are also the presenters – people turn up on the day and then construct the programme by nominating themselves to speak on a particular topic. Watch Ideas Shop’s video describing the process.

I began the series last year when I couldn’t find social media events that weren’t just 101 sessions. So we ran a highly-successful event, in conjunction with Massey University School of Business, where 40 of the capital’s top communicators come together to talk, inspire and collaborate on a chosen theme. We also had a handful of Massey University students in the mix, who asked great questions and encouraged some of the people who had been working for years to think in new ways.

The benefit of this event (besides the goody bag at the end) is intangible and personal. It’s about learning, meeting new people, not being afraid to ask questions and discussing and arguing ideas. 

It’s not glamorous and won’t end up in the social pages but it’s the kind of PR event that will lift up your spirits, dust off your aspirations and give the participants the opportunity to meet their peers for casual non-competitive discussion on topical events.