No matter the occasion, all successful gatherings have a basic formula. You have to exceed people's expectations and create the wow effect if you are putting together a special occasion. Here are tips to make your next special occasion a big hit. Image & Video Credit: Winward Home
1. Start Planning Early
The devil is in the details; you have to nail every aspect of the special occasion. If it's a big occasion, it takes months to plan; smaller events can take a month or three weeks. Your plan should include all the logistics and a list of main tasks. Think about everything down to the very last detail if you want your guests to be pleasantly surprised. Most event planners usually underestimate the preparations, yet they can make or break the occasion.
2. Be Flexible
So many things will change in the course of planning the special occasion. Try to keep an open mind and adjust where possible. The event location and times can change at any time. That is why it's essential to have a backup plan if you have to shift everything. But when you give yourself enough time to plan, such things will be easy to adjust. However, you shouldn't be too flexible; there are things you have to remain firm and rigid about.
3. Come Up With A Theme
You can have a special occasion without a great theme. Brainstorm a few ideas and select a theme that cuts across all aspects, including decorations, invitations, and menu items. Lovely decorations can tie the entire event together and create a background for your theme. For example, faux hydrangea centerpieces can be your focal point. Flowers are ornamental plants; they will improve the aesthetics at the event location. Once you figure out the theme and decorations, everything will be smooth sailing.
4. Think About Food And Beverages
Even a carefully planned special occasion will flop if the food and drinks are not up to par. You have to know your guests' demographics and take note of the ages attending the event. Consider the guest's dietary specifications. If it's an intimate occasion, you can have everyone's favourite dish on the menu. But with a large group giving the guest options is the best way to go about it. Ensure your display or menu has a variety of foods and drinks so that everyone has something to enjoy. Order enough food for the maximum number of attendees. You would rather have little leftovers than have anyone miss the meal.
5. Entertainment Is Crucial
You must have a way to keep the guests entertained for however long the event is. Live music is great, but you can get a DJ or create an amazing playlist if that is not an option. A host can also be a good idea. They keep the crowd entertained and engaged at all times; there won't be a dull moment. However, hosts come at an added cost, so you have to decide if that is something you can afford or not. Photo booths are entertaining and allow your guests to interact with each other.
6. Giveaway Prizes
Everyone likes winning things no matter the occasion. If you want to go the extra mile for the event, come up with some giveaways for the guests. It keeps everyone drawn in until the last minute. The award might be something as simple as a bottle of wine. Give the prize at the end if you want to capture the guest’s full attention at the party. Device creative ways your attendees can compete for the awards. This takes the entertainment factor to a whole new level.
7. Select The Time And Date Carefully
If you want 100% attendance, you have to select the right date and time. If the people you are planning the special occasion for have work and other responsibilities, you have to be considerate. Weekends tend to favour most people, but you can ask your guests what they are comfortable with before committing to a date.
8. Do A Run-Through
A week before the big day, do a run-through of the entire event process. You can stop a few complications and correct them before the party. You should also have a final check a day before the occasion. Confirm the number of attendees and ensure all the food and other services are in order. Inform the guests of the final location and time.
Conclusion
Putting a special occasion will be easier with these tips. You will create a truly memorable event with an eye for detail and thoughtful planning. Ensure you meet your guest's needs and also keep things fun.
