HBS Holiday Bash 2023

In 2023, the Houston Blues Society (HBS) faced the challenge of organizing its Annual Holiday Bash with less than two months of preparation. This situation necessitated a strategic approach in evaluating the success of the event compared to previous years, especially 2018 and 2022. Critical aspects of this evaluation included the use of data to inform event planning and decision-making processes, the criteria for artist selection, and an analysis of show durations, ticket sales, profit, and expenses for the years in question.

The 2018 event, headlined by Kingfish, was a major highlight for HBS before 2023. Data gathered from limited marketing efforts and an interview with HBS’s President at the time, indicated that 144 tickets were sold, with a net income of $77 after expenses. In 2022, the event sold 81 tickets at $30 each.

The 2023 Holiday Bash marked a significant turnaround. The planning team employed music preference data to guide their decisions, focusing on presenting quality artists who would help achieve HBS’s financial goals, particularly for raising funds for scholarships. Audience demographics were a key consideration in the strategy, aiming to draw a larger and younger crowd. Despite the short notice, the event featured artists like Sue Foley, The Blues Foundation Winner of 2023, and Sparky Parker, aligning with HBS’s criteria for success. The event sold 163 tickets at $35, and $40 at the door, demonstrating the effectiveness of this approach.

This case study also reflects on the potential risks associated with data-driven strategies in event management. The analysis draws upon data from the HBS website for 2022 and 2023, supplemented by information from the society’s president regarding the 2018 event. Ideal data for comprehensive analysis would encompass accurate attendance records, artist and vendor feedback, attendee surveys, social media analytics, and industry benchmarks.

In conclusion, the Houston Blues Society’s Annual Holiday Bash 2023 was a testament to the power of data-driven planning in overcoming time constraints and achieving financial success. The strategic choice of artists and focused approach towards audience engagement played a significant role in surpassing the outcomes of previous years, underscoring the importance of adaptability and informed decision-making in event management.