A New Spin on Event Planning

It used to be that planning an event was a matter of booking a venue, calling the caterer and making sure the invitations went out in a timely manner.

It used to be good enough.

But in the age of the Internet, guests now know that anything is possible…with enough imagination.  Planners are now expected to execute an experience.

So where do you start?

Generally, it is a good idea to start with a brainstorming session in that all ideas are written down, no matter how ridiculous they may sound. Often times, they lead to ideas that are very possible to execute.

As you prioritize your ideas, remember that although there are many components to creating a fabulous event, the food and entertainment are probably the most impactful.

Unexpected Cuisine
The menu is one of the most effective areas to create a new experience for your guests.

As the general public becomes more educated and familiar with a variety of cuisine, it opens the door to working cooperatively with the chef to offer food stations that become part of the entertainment and the décor.

A sushi chef may be preparing the maki and nigiri on-site in front of the guests. Guests can watch and learn, as well as be able to get the exact sushi they want.

Think of how you can present food in a different manner than they would normally be presented (and keep in mind that everything “mini” and in multitudes is hot right now). Shot glasses of lobster bisque. Crème brulee in sake cups. A trio of mini tapas presented on a rectangular plate.

Most chefs are very creative and are a great, untapped resource in creating a memorable event.

Interactive Entertainment
Creating interaction among guests is also critical to the event experience. Even well-planned centerpieces can provide a great icebreaker for guests who don’t know each other.

For example, a s’more centerpiece is easy to put together with a butane flame (just make sure you are able to decorate over and around the heat source to create a campfire feel).

And the pinnacle of the event is the main entertainment. Whether it is a band (consider hiring a couple of dance instructors to draw guests onto the dance floor) or an interactive performance like “Fear No Ice” or a “Guitar Hero” contest, all the other pieces of your event prepare your guests to be engaged by the entertainment.

The bottom line is, while planning the logistics is as important as it has ever been, interjecting a new spin on various elements can make or break your event. More than ever, it is essential to understand your client (whether internal or external) and your audience so that you can engage them.