Spruce up your event

Decor, if done correctly, sets the scene, creates the vibe and encourages social engagement. We asked the experts on how to get the right look that will leave a lasting impression on guests.

Whether it is a corporate function, fund-raising event, networking occasion or a wedding, event decor transforms ordinary venues into organic spaces and makes the occasion inviting, sophisticated and memorable.

‘One of the easiest ways to spruce up any corporate event venue is the use of decor. Decor imparts a sense of formality to an event and creates an appealing atmosphere across tables, seating, walls, ceilings and walkways. An event is a visual extension of your brand or personality and, when done well, decor will create a cohesive reflective of the host,’ explains Alastair Laing, CEO for Unlimited Events Group.

DON’T GET IT WRONG
Setting up event decor takes time. ‘There is nothing more unprofessional than still setting up decorations as guests start arriving, or discovering that electrical decor items have no power supply five minutes prior the event starting. Plan out the event set-up well in advance, and make sure you have enough hands on deck to place all decor before the event starts,’ says Laing.

READ: EVENT DECOR NO-NOS

He also cites cluttering tabletops as a popular mistake made by event planners. Whether the table surface is designed for guests to eat off, for placement of a centrepiece or for decorative purposes, avoid having it cluttered unnecessarily so that it makes it cumbersome to be used for its purpose. Make sure that there is ample room for guests to comfortably do what they need to without having to awkwardly rearrange decor to make notes or eat dinner.

DOWNLOAD: 9 WAYS TO ENSURE YOU GET THE MOST OUT OF DECOR

For Jana King, general manager of Songhai Events, over-branding is the number one mistake any event planner can make. ‘Subtle detail and considered branded elements are far more effective than numerous pull-up banners and too many logos.’ She advises event planners to use speciality suppliers instead of one-stop shops, as this will ensure that your client has an event that has a unique look.

CLIENT FIRST, DECOR SECOND
Always consider the client first. ‘Never reject your client’s decor ideas and do not force a decor concept onto your client. A happy client is a continued client after all. A clever decor stylist will suggest and subtly advise on alternate decor possibilities, but never criticise or reject a client’s specific decor request,’ says King.

‘Clients want more ‘chill’ and pre-dinner drink areas and, as a result, we have been combining furniture hire with our offerings,’ says Laing. Other requests that Unlimited Events Group have received are for events that are colourful, vibrant and playful.

READ: 9 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR CLIENT WHEN DECIDING ON DECOR

HAVE FUN
King advises, ‘Make sure the client signs off on décor concepts and the event look and feel before the actual installation. This will ensure all expectations are met, if not surpassed, on event day.’ Don’t be afraid to try new things. Be enthusiastic and have fun. Event decor is such an exciting element of the event industry. Don’t be too serious and get your clients excited from the start.