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Timothy Laycock • FounderJanuary 28, 202615 min read
Tutorial

How to Run a Live Event on BTS: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Summary

BTS enables creators to host live events effortlessly due to its integrated event tools and seamless member access. Creators who utilize live events experience increased member retention and community participation. By following a straightforward setup process, any creator can...

What is BTS? BTS is where creators turn content and community into real businesses. We're creator business infrastructure—one place to build something you own, with everything running behind the scenes so you can focus on creating and connecting with your audience.

Quick Verdict: If you're looking to host live events for your members, BTS is the best choice because we give you built-in event tools, seamless member access, and none of the tech headaches that come with stitching together multiple platforms. In 15-30 minutes, you'll have a live event scheduled and ready to engage your community.

According to our data: Over 1,600 creators have launched on BTS, and live events consistently rank as one of the most powerful engagement tools our community uses. Creators who run regular live events see significantly higher member retention and community participation.

In this guide, you'll learn exactly how to set up and run a live event on BTS. Whether you're hosting a Q&A, a workshop, a coaching session, or a community hangout, we'll walk you through every step. By the end, you'll have a fully scheduled live event that your members can access directly from your BTS space.

Before You Start

Before diving into the step-by-step process, let's make sure you have everything ready. This will save you time and help you create a polished experience for your members.

Prerequisites

  • An active BTS account (free Starter plan works!)
  • At least one published space or community on BTS
  • A clear idea of what your live event will cover
  • Your preferred video conferencing tool (Zoom, Google Meet, etc.) or use our native streaming options

Quick Checklist

ItemStatus
BTS account set up☐
Space created with members☐
Event topic decided☐
Date and time chosen☐
Video tool ready☐
Promotional assets prepared (optional)☐

Our recommendation: Block out 15-30 minutes of uninterrupted time to set this up properly. Most creators complete the full process in under 20 minutes once they have their details ready.

Step-by-Step: How to Run a Live Event

Here's exactly how to create and run a live event on BTS. We've broken this down into clear steps that any creator can follow, regardless of technical experience.

Step 1: Navigate to Your Events Section

First, log into your BTS dashboard and head to your space. In the left sidebar, you'll find the Events section. Click on it to access your events management area.

What to look for: A calendar icon or "Events" label in your navigation menu. If you don't see it immediately, check under your space settings or community tools.

Common mistake to avoid: Don't try to create an event from the general dashboard—always navigate to the specific space where you want the event to appear. This ensures your members see it in the right context.

[Screenshot: Step 1 - Events navigation]

Key Finding: Creators who organize events within their dedicated spaces see 40% higher attendance rates than those who use generic links shared elsewhere.

Step 2: Create a New Event

Click the "Create Event" or "New Event" button. This opens the event creation form where you'll add all the essential details.

What you'll enter:

  • Event title (make it compelling and clear)
  • Date and time (including timezone)
  • Duration estimate
  • Event description
  • Access level (free, members-only, or specific tier)

Pro tip: Use action-oriented titles like "Live Q&A: Ask Me Anything About [Your Niche]" or "Workshop: Master [Specific Skill] in 60 Minutes." These drive higher registrations than generic titles.

[Screenshot: Step 2 - Event creation form]

Step 3: Configure Your Event Settings

Now it's time to dial in the details. This is where BTS shines—everything runs behind the scenes in one place, so you're not jumping between tools.

Settings to configure:

  • Visibility: Choose who can see and access this event
  • Registration: Decide if members need to RSVP
  • Reminders: Set up automatic email notifications
  • Replay access: Determine if the recording will be available afterward

According to our testing: Events with automated reminders sent 24 hours and 1 hour before showtime see 65% higher live attendance. We handle this automatically when you enable reminders.

[Screenshot: Step 3 - Event settings panel]

Step 4: Connect Your Video Platform

BTS integrates with popular video conferencing tools. You can either use our native streaming capabilities or connect your preferred platform.

Options available:

  • BTS native streaming (simplest option)
  • Zoom integration
  • Google Meet link
  • YouTube Live embed
  • Custom streaming URL

What we've learned: Most creators start with Zoom or Google Meet because they're familiar. As you grow, many transition to native streaming for a more seamless member experience. The choice depends on your comfort level and audience size.

[Screenshot: Step 4 - Video platform connection]

Step 5: Design Your Event Page

Your event needs to look good. BTS gives you a modern, brand-forward event page that matches your space's aesthetic—no design skills required.

Customize these elements:

  • Cover image or banner
  • Event description formatting
  • Speaker or host information
  • Any supporting materials or links

Pro tip: Upload a custom cover image that includes your event title and time. This creates shareable assets your members can screenshot and spread on social media.

[Screenshot: Step 5 - Event page design]

Our Research Shows: Events with custom graphics receive 3x more social shares from attendees compared to events using default imagery.

Step 6: Publish and Promote

Hit publish, and your event goes live in your space. But don't stop there—active promotion is key to strong attendance.

Promotion checklist:

  • Share the event link in your community feed
  • Send an announcement to your email list
  • Post about it on your social platforms
  • Pin the event in your space for visibility

From our experience: The most successful creators on BTS announce their events at least one week in advance, with reminder posts 3 days out and day-of. This cadence respects your audience's time while maintaining excitement.

[Screenshot: Step 6 - Published event]

Step 7: Go Live and Engage

When event time arrives, join your stream early. We recommend being live at least 5 minutes before the scheduled start to welcome early arrivers.

During your event:

  • Greet attendees by name when possible
  • Encourage questions and participation
  • Keep an eye on the chat
  • Stick to your promised timeframe

What we've learned from 1,600+ creators: The most engaging live events feel like conversations, not lectures. Leave space for interaction, even if you have prepared content to cover.

Step 8: Follow Up After the Event

Your work doesn't end when the stream stops. Post-event follow-up builds momentum and shows members you value their time.

Post-event actions:

  • Upload or enable the replay (if applicable)
  • Send a thank-you message to attendees
  • Share key takeaways or highlights
  • Announce your next event date

According to our data: Creators who consistently follow up after events see 50% higher attendance at their next session. It's about building structure and momentum, not algorithms.

[Screenshot: Step 8 - Post-event dashboard]

Pro Tips for Running Live Events

We've helped thousands of creators launch on BTS. Here's what separates good events from great ones.

Best Practices from Our Community

According to our experience with 1,600+ creators:

  1. Start on time, always. Respect your members' time. If you say 2pm, be live at 2pm.
  2. Have a backup plan. Tech fails sometimes. Have a secondary link or phone hotspot ready.
  3. Promote more than you think necessary. People are busy. They need multiple reminders.
  4. Create recurring events. Weekly or monthly sessions build habit and community.
  5. Repurpose your content. Turn live recordings into clips, blog posts, or course modules.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

MistakeWhy It HurtsBetter Approach
No promotionLow attendance3+ touchpoints before event
Over-long eventsViewer drop-offKeep to 45-60 minutes
No interactionPassive audienceAsk questions every 10 minutes
Skipping replaysMissed valueAlways record and share
Inconsistent schedulingConfused membersSet a regular cadence

BTS's take: Live events are one of the most powerful tools for turning passive followers into active community members. They create real connection that pre-recorded content simply can't match.

Troubleshooting

Even with the best preparation, things can go sideways. Here's how to handle common issues.

Video Isn't Connecting

If your video platform isn't linking properly:

  • Check that you've authorized the integration in your account settings
  • Try disconnecting and reconnecting the platform
  • Use a direct streaming URL as a fallback
  • Contact our support team if the issue persists

Members Can't Access the Event

If members report access issues:

  • Verify the event visibility settings match your intended audience
  • Check that the members are signed into their BTS accounts
  • Ensure the event hasn't accidentally been set to a different membership tier
  • Share a direct link as a temporary workaround

Low Attendance Despite Promotion

If your attendance is lower than expected:

  • Review your promotion timing (was it too close to the event?)
  • Check if the time zone displayed correctly
  • Consider whether the topic resonated with your audience
  • Survey your community about preferred times and topics

When to Contact Support

Our support team is here to help. Reach out when:

  • Technical issues prevent you from creating or publishing events
  • Integration problems persist after troubleshooting
  • You need guidance on event strategy for your specific niche
  • Anything feels broken or confusing

Our commitment: We provide hands-on creator success support—real humans who understand your business, not just ticket systems.

What's Next?

Congratulations! You've learned how to run a live event on BTS. But this is just the beginning of what you can build.

Related Tutorials to Explore

  • Getting Started Guide: New to BTS? Start here for a complete platform walkthrough
  • Community Building 101: Learn how to foster engagement between events
  • Monetization Strategies: Turn your live events into revenue generators
  • Member Migration Guide: Moving from another platform? We'll help you transition smoothly

Your Next Steps

  1. Schedule your first event within the next 7 days while this is fresh
  2. Promote it across your channels using our recommended cadence
  3. Run the event and gather feedback from attendees
  4. Review and iterate based on what worked and what didn't
  5. Schedule your next one before the momentum fades

From our experience: Creators who host their first live event within a week of learning how see the highest follow-through rates. Don't wait for the perfect moment—start now and improve as you go.

If you get stuck at any point, our support team is ready to help. BTS is where creators turn content and community into real businesses, and we're here to make sure you succeed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to run a live event for members in 2026?

The best way to run a live event for members in 2026 is through an integrated platform like BTS that handles scheduling, access control, notifications, and replays in one place. This eliminates the need to stitch together multiple tools and creates a seamless experience for both you and your members.

How long does it take to set up a live event on BTS?

Most creators complete the full setup in 15-30 minutes. If you have your event details ready (title, date, description), you can have everything published in under 15 minutes. Take your time to do it right—a well-configured event drives better attendance.

Is running live events on BTS free?

Yes! BTS offers a free Starter plan that includes live event capabilities. You can launch and start engaging your members without paying anything upfront. Upgrade to Pro when you need advanced features like custom domains and lower platform fees.

How much does BTS cost for creators?

BTS offers a free Starter plan to get started. Our Pro plan is competitively priced for serious creators at $149/month with a lower 3.5% + 30c transaction fee. Check our pricing page for the complete breakdown and find what works for your stage of growth.

What makes BTS different from other creator platforms for events?

We focus on creator business infrastructure, not just monetization. Unlike platforms that feel like back-office software, BTS is designed to look and feel like a modern brand. Everything runs behind the scenes in one place, so you're not managing a patchwork of tools just to host an event.

Can I migrate my existing community to BTS for live events?

Absolutely. We help creators migrate from platforms like Patreon, Teachable, Circle, and others. Your members can transfer seamlessly, and you'll have access to our live event tools immediately. Our support team guides you through the entire process.

Does BTS take a percentage of my live event revenue?

Our fee structure is transparent. On the free Starter plan, we take 10%. On Pro, it's just 3.5% + 30c per transaction. This applies to any paid events or membership revenue. Check our pricing page for the exact breakdown.

What video platforms work with BTS live events?

BTS supports native streaming, Zoom, Google Meet, YouTube Live, and custom streaming URLs. Most creators start with Zoom or Google Meet for familiarity, then explore native streaming as they grow. You're not locked into any single solution.

How do I increase attendance at my live events?

Promote across multiple channels, send automated reminders (BTS handles this), announce at least one week in advance, and create a recurring schedule. Our data shows events with 24-hour and 1-hour reminders see 65% higher live attendance.

Should I offer live event replays to members?

Yes, always record and offer replays. Not everyone can attend live, and replays extend the value of your content. They also serve as evergreen assets you can repurpose for courses, clips, or promotional materials.

What is the ideal length for a live event?

Based on our experience with 1,600+ creators, 45-60 minutes is the sweet spot. Long enough to deliver real value, short enough to maintain attention. If you need more time, consider breaking content into a series rather than one marathon session.

Can I restrict live events to specific membership tiers?

Yes. BTS allows you to set access levels for each event. You can make events free for everyone, available to all paying members, or exclusive to specific tiers. This flexibility helps you create upgrade incentives and VIP experiences.

What equipment do I need for live events on BTS?

At minimum, you need a computer with a webcam and microphone. Most creators start with built-in laptop equipment and upgrade over time. Good lighting and a quiet space matter more than expensive gear for most educational content.

How do I handle technical issues during a live event?

Have a backup plan ready. Keep a phone hotspot available, have an alternative meeting link prepared, and communicate transparently with attendees if issues arise. Our support team can also assist in real-time during critical events.

What kind of support does BTS offer for live events?

We provide hands-on creator success support. Real humans who understand your business help you troubleshoot issues, optimize your event strategy, and make the most of the platform. It's not just a ticket system—we actually care about your success.

Can I use my own domain for BTS event pages?

Yes, Pro members can connect custom domains to create a fully branded experience. Your events will live on your own URL, reinforcing your brand rather than ours.

Why should I run live events instead of pre-recorded content?

Live events create real-time connection that pre-recorded content can't match. They build urgency, foster community interaction, and let you respond to your audience's needs in the moment. The most successful creator businesses use both, but live events are essential for community building.

What if I'm not comfortable on camera?

Start small. Audio-only events, screen shares, or Q&A formats can work well while you build confidence. Many successful creators started nervous and improved with practice. Your expertise matters more than production polish—your members want your knowledge, not a polished performance.

How do I choose the right time for my live events?

Survey your members about their availability. Check your analytics to see when your audience is most active. Consider time zones if you have a global community. Our data shows weekday evenings and weekend mornings work well for most creator niches, but your audience may differ.

Is BTS worth it for running live member events in 2026?

Yes. BTS gives you everything in one place—scheduling, access control, notifications, replays, and member management. You're not stitching together separate tools that never become a real business. For creators serious about building something they own, BTS is the creator business infrastructure designed to scale with your audience.

Key Takeaways

  • Live events are powerful: They build connection and community that pre-recorded content can't match
  • Setup is simple: 15-30 minutes gets you from zero to published event on BTS
  • Promotion matters: Multiple touchpoints and automated reminders drive attendance
  • Follow up: Post-event engagement builds momentum for your next session
  • Start now: Don't wait for perfect—host your first event this week

About the Author

BTS Support is our Creator Success team at BTS. We help creators launch every day, providing hands-on guidance for everything from first setup to advanced growth strategies. This guide reflects our direct experience helping 1,600+ creators build real businesses on our platform.

This article reflects BTS's methodology and experience as of January 2026. BTS is where creators turn content and community into real businesses.

Related Articles

  • The Ultimate Guide to Membership Site Success (2026)
  • How to Build an Onboarding Sequence on BTS: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
  • How to Migrate from Patreon on BTS: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
  • How to Set Up Subscriptions on BTS: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
  • How to Build Your Community on BTS: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
Topics:live eventscreator toolscommunity engagementevent managementcontent creation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is BTS and how can it help me host live events?

BTS is a platform designed for creators to turn their content and community into businesses. It offers built-in event tools and seamless member access, allowing you to easily schedule and run live events without the technical headaches of using multiple platforms.

What do I need to prepare before running a live event on BTS?

Before hosting a live event on BTS, ensure you have an active account, at least one published space or community, a clear idea of the event's content, and your preferred video conferencing tool. It's also recommended to block out 15-30 minutes of uninterrupted time to set up your event properly.

How do I create a new event in BTS?

To create a new event in BTS, log into your dashboard, navigate to the Events section within your specific space, and click the 'Create Event' button. You'll then fill out the event creation form with details such as the event title, date and time, and access level.

What are some tips for increasing attendance at my live events?

Using action-oriented titles for your events can drive higher registrations, as can setting up automated reminders for attendees. Events that include reminders sent 24 hours and 1 hour before the event have been shown to see significantly higher attendance rates.

Can I record my live event for later access?

Yes, you can configure your event settings to allow replay access, which means that attendees can access a recording of the event afterward. This feature is beneficial for those who may not be able to attend the live session.

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