WITH BIG EVENTS, IT’S THE SMALLEST OF DETAILS THAT CAN MATTER THE MOST IN 2010

No matter how big your event, it’s the tiniest of details that can make all the difference. And while those “little” details can seem trivial in terms of cost or effort, they can make or break the attendee experience. So dig into what matters most – the clients’ motivation – designing an event and a layout that serves them, convey their message and address the details that are meaningful to their attendees.

They may be easily overlooked, but here are five event elements that event producers ignore as their peril.

CONVERSATION STYLE  Savvy event designers will plan room setup based on event objectives. For example, if you’re holding a networking event, your designer should incorporate small, intimate lounges that foster one-on-one conversation. If it’s important to bring big group of people together – say, after a company merger – large seating areas work best.

ARTFULLY MANAGE ALL TOUCHING POINTS  Good designers are continually looking for how to support the story of theme in a way that touches all of the senses. Scent or room temperature can evoke certain feelings and emotions. People will always remember that unexpected little detail that caused them to stop for a moment and think. Tactile elements that physically touch the guest as well as a large bold statement of color and texture work well to keep the audience focused and engaged.

LOSE THE LINES  Everyone knows that long lines can destroy the event experience. But they’re still among the most common attendee complaints. Think through the event layout – especially for registration and food service – and create a flow that minimizes killer queues.

ALL HANDS ON DECK  Theme events can drive home a brand statement, but themed elements might fail flat unless all event staff knows how to deliver them. If valets or registration personnel are the first staffers interacting with guests, make sure they know key messaging. If food and beverage are tied to your theme, be certain that wait staff and bartenders are properly trained so they can help tell your story.

ROAD TEST YOUR EVENT FLOW  Delivering the best possible guests experience means that the event is a win for your attendees, too. Guests have a role – they are participants in the success of the event. If they need to register for activities, do they know how, where and when? Do they stand in line for food or are trays coming to them? Communication should be clear, concise and clever so they know how to navigate the event – where to go and when.

To find out more on how to maximize your client’s experience, Orange County’s leading weddings flowers and special events at (949) 851-4739 or send email to Events@ParadiseDelight.com