Standing Out for a Standing O

Strobe lights and screaming fans, acceptance speeches, and runway faux pas. These are the ingredients that make for great entertainment. But the behind-the-scenes action is what pulls it all together and makes a special event come to life.  

A successful event unites people to create a unique and memorable experience that they will talk about for ages. Or, at the very least, over lattes the next day.  

Have you thought about the types of meetings, events, and celebrations you’ll be hosting as we approach the end of the year? These tried & true tips will help you create a memorable, one-of-a-kind event for your employees and clients:

Flour, Butter & the Basics

Industry trends are ever-changing, which can be hard to keep up with. The “secret” ingredient to any successful event is to keep it classic. Chocolate cake never goes out of style.

Location, Location, Location… No Soggy Dough Here!

No more boardrooms or blasé hotel spaces. Find a venue with ambiance & character. Think art galleries and performance spaces with exposed brick, loft ceilings, and skyline views. This type of backdrop provides the room with built-in décor and encourages creativity, allowing your guests to change their mindset.  

Don’t be afraid to have some fun and add variety to your next event. Find a location that has both indoor and outdoor space options. Most outdoor venues have heating lamps for cooler weather that provide a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Get creative and have baskets filled with small blankets for your guests. Serve mulled wine, hot cider, or hot cocoa. The fresh air will be an invigorating bonus.  

Load up on the Laughs & the A La Mode

Laughter builds community and fosters learning, which makes things more memorable. Icebreakers & group exercises are a great way to break down barriers and shift the energy in the room. Use playful games and improv exercises to boost morale and get people on their feet and feeling engaged.

Unlimited “Interactive” Toppings

Events may be different things to different people, but the “icing on the cake” is bringing people together. Whether an employee training, networking event or celebration, make it a fun and interactive experience!  

Show don’t tell. Consider other creative ways to communicate your ideas to your audience. Incorporating an interactive teaching and learning approach is superior to purely didactic learning.

Kitchen Upgrades: Tips & Tools That Are Worth It

A crumble of creativity will do the trick. Most venues can accommodate special requests. Jazz up any space with strung lights in varying shapes and colors. Add an unexpected pop of color to table linens that will help create a warm and inviting space.  

Host a dinner or cocktail hour with entertainment. Lean into the culture and vibe of your host city by serving popular local dishes. Mix in some more flavor by hiring a jazz player or musician.

The “Extra” “Extras” – Wow Them With Flavor

It’s the little things. Here are some branding ideas that are guaranteed to wow your guests:

• Project your company’s logo on the wall.  
• Have branded cocktail napkins at your next happy hour.
• Order customized “light up” ice cubes with your company’s logo.  
• Create a custom-themed drink for your organization. Go the extra mile and have the “mock” tail version for those non-drinkers.

Make it Easy as Pie

Set yourself up for success. Stay organized by preparing a checklist in advance. Plan for the unplanned by arriving early to do a walk-through of the space.  

Now that you have these tools in your pantry, grab your chef hat and oven mitts and get started on creating your own award-winning event today!

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