Little details that make the difference at an event
Every single event that we design starts with the big picture and then very soon after, the layers of detail. We spend time to understand the brief – what are we trying to achieve. With every event, this will be different – a brand or business focussed event will have strong objectives and messages to communicate. A private event or wedding will be more about the individual or couple and their story. It’s so important to us that we really ensure that we understand the goals – what does ‘great’ look like and how do we want guests to feel both during the event and looking back on it.
We’ve put together a list of some of the fun little touches we enjoy adding to events. This could be 100 ideas long, so we’ve had to cherrypick!
NAME CARDS – SOMETHING THAT WILL ALWAYS BE NOTICED
This is a great place to have add detail. Whether you have name cards in holders or within a menu, they are something that every guest will see as they take their place for dinner. We’re a big fan of an unusual name card holder and you can often find us scouring vintage sites for quirky and unusual options. Even better if they become keepsakes for the guest to take away.
ENTERTAINMENT OUTFITS - DON'T ASSUME WHAT THESE WILL BE
If you’re working with a great planner or entertainment agency, this is something that will just ‘happen’ but believe us a lot of consideration goes into this. Looking at the overall styling for the event helps you to understand the outfits for your entertainment. You’ll often find us signing off the right tone of gold or sending links to a cool jumpsuit for a singer. It’s the little details that just make everything feel like it fits together.
INVITES - DON'T FORGET THE ENVELOPE
We are huge fans of a hard copy invite. We understand that it’s not always possible but by sending something to guests which they keep on their desk or in their home, marks the occasion in a way that an email just can’t. We pour over details here – the paper stock, the weight, the texture, whether to print, foil or letterpress. The options are endless and it’s just the perfect way to introduce your messaging and create a special start to the guest journey. We always say – don’t forget the envelope – we adore an envelope liner as it’s a brilliant way to add an unexpected pop of colour or pattern.
HOST TEAM - THE FIRST IMPRESSION
It sounds simple but the attention to detail within the first point of contact with guests on site is so key. The check in process needs to be super slick – we 100% recommend iPads over paper for speed but thinking about the iPad cases, the host team, what they’re wearing, the messaging. It’s a small point but if you can start the experience perfectly then it sets things off on the right foot.
CARPET COLOURS...
This is so ridiculously niche we’re aware, but most of our events have a stage so it's a big point! That may be for a product display or presentation, a panel discussion, a ceremony or a band. What that stage looks like is really important. We’re always discussing carpet colours, edging to steps and how the furniture works within that palette. It can sometimes be upgrading a carpet to allow for a wider range of colours or choosing an unexpected combination. Considering how big a stage can be, this can have a really big impact.
GIFTING THAT COUNTS
We find that a lot of our events have a gifting element and let’s face it, who doesn’t love leaving an event with a present. There’s lots to consider here so in brief our top points would be;
- Really think about the gift – make it intentional rather than a token gesture
- How are the guests carrying it home – do you need bags?
- Think about the unexpected – we once turned the florals around from events, hand tying them quickly into takeaway bunches – the florals didn’t go to waste, and the guests enjoyed them beyond the evening
- Food gifts always go down well but ensure they’re packed well. There’s nothing worse than getting home and opening a box the next day to find that your sweet treat has been totally destroyed.
- Add branding or messaging. The next day, week, month or year, you want your guests to look at that gift and remember where it was from. Conscious and considered branding is key.
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