Business Advice Daily

Reprint and Repost Policy

Turning Your Next Event Into A Masterpiece

Here are some tips on making your next event memorable:

* Invitations serve a dual purpose.

Of course their primary purpose is to get people to come to your event. However, events also are a way for your name to come across the desks of your target market. Even if someone cannot attend, he/she will think of your company as active and on the move. For that reason, make sure your invitation is eye-catching and appealing.

* Another way to capitalize on your event and spur attendance is to use press releases and advertisements when appropriate.

These are ways to let the public know that you have a special reason to celebrate. Just remember that all publicity must carry through your theme and image.

* The location for your event must accommodate the number of people you anticipate attending.

If your goal is to bring people to your store or office, you must limit your guest list to those whose attendance you consider most important. Otherwise, choose a locale that fits your theme and that will comfortably handle your guests. Remember that whether you have your event during or after the working day, people are busy. Choose a location that is convenient for the majority of your guests.

There is more reason to offer refreshments than merely to be hospitable. Great food encourages guests to mingle and more importantly, to stay longer. Your menu should be tailored to your guest list, especially when children are involved. As a general rule, it’s worth it to treat your guests royally and never charge for food or beverages.

* Décor does not necessarily mean expensive centerpieces.

This is a time when you can put your creativity to work. For example, if your company manufactures or sells a particular product, incorporate these items in clever centerpieces. Depending on your caterer, food can be used in decorative ways. Colorful food, beautifully arranged, can be an attention-getter at every table. You don’t have to serve caviar; sometimes it’s all in the presentation. Also, make sure that centerpieces at sit-down affairs do not block the view across the table and inhibit conversation.

* When it comes to entertainment, long speeches are out.

So are numerous short speeches. You have a captive audience, but don’t make them feel like captives. Again, the entertainment has to fit the theme. Clowns, balloons and Fredbird can be perfectly appropriate, as can a string quartet. It all depends on the occasion. Appearance by celebrities or sports mascots may not be as costly as you think.

* Gifts show more than appreciation—they ensure your guests will remember you after the event.

If you own a retail store, a gift certificate drawing can give people a reason to return to your establishment. Also consider giving away samples of your products when appropriate. Events are ideal occasions to distribute ad specialties. Find something clever that is suited to your business and budget. When selecting an ad specialty, make sure you order an item that recipients will keep on their desks, wear or use, so that other people will also see it.

* The impact of an event doesn’t stop when it’s over.

Capitalize on your contacts. Make sure you have a business card drop or guest book so you can add names to your mailing list. Whether your event is small and only for selected individuals, or a large public affair, you have the perfect chance to contact everyone who attended. A thank you letter or a follow-up offer is definitely in order. It’s another chance for you to get your name in front of your audience.

Bookmark to: