THE GUEST EXPERIENCE

PC Joshua Dwain Photography

Destination Event

When planning an event you are exposing a piece of your personality for viewing. Its a glimpse of your dream, an achievement, commitment or acknowledgement of a moment. Most importantly your hard work and sacrifice to provide an experience for everyone that’s attending.

Guest are coming with anticipation of an experience. What will they feel, touch, see, hear, taste and remember. These are sensory perceptions that will ignite excitement or disappointment. I remember hosting parties at my home and people would stay long after the party would end. I would literally have to say I’m going to bed for guest to leave….. LOL. They felt welcome, comfortable and engaged in laughter and conversation, good eats and beverages and entertained.

Below are a few Key Elements to have a successful event that guest will remember.

• Announcement of the Event

  • TOUCH: The invitation set the tone. When guest receive the invite its an introduction to what’s to come. They immediately look at their calendar to determine if they will attend and what they will wear! Will they save the invite or will they toss it in the pile of mail?

  • Digital Invitations create the same experience. Please consider the graphic layout and design. Selection of font and coloration. If using an image please make sure images are clear.

• Welcome and Organization

  • FEEL: How will they be welcome when they arrive. No one wants to walk into chaos. Make sure guest have a clear direction of where to go and what to do upon arrival. Be considerate of everyones time.

• Beverage, Cocktails and Appetizers/Food.

  • TASTE: All must be good and accessible or served. Presentation is everything. They will arrive thirsty and hungry.

• Decor

  • SEE & TOUCH: Create wow factors that will leave them speechless. All details matter! You personal brand is on display for everyone to see. Seating, linens, table settings, floral and decor elements are all apart of the overall experience.

• Entertainment

  • SEE & HEAR: We all like to be entertained in some capacity. Different occasions calls for different types of entertainment. Fundraisers may use a compelling video that draws them into the cause and make them want to donate. Corporate functions may have a comedian or emcee to loosen up the audience. For special occasions and weddings people expect to party and dance. Make sure the band or DJ you hire understands the assignment. Your guest should leave full and exhausted.

Enjoy Your Weekend!

Cheri Denise