Hosting an event is more than just a room filled with balloons and music; it’s a whole experience in itself. In this blog, we focus on our award-winning event, the NorLand Black & White Ball produced by Bright Ideas Event Agency, while following a simple guide with event tips on how to host a memorable event.
A Little Context – The NorLand Black & White Ball:
NorLand Limited was celebrating the 30th Anniversary of its current ownership, so we worked with our client to host a Black & White Ball to commemorate this milestone. In an empty train station with 20,000 square feet of event space, we designed and custom-built a manor house to hold the ball. The majestic ‘Gone with the Wind’ style staircase leading to a second floor was one of the event’s highlights.
Setting Objectives:
First task is to set your event objectives. What is the event for? What are the clients’ objectives?
For example, NorLand Limited was celebrating the 30th Anniversary of its current ownership and wanted to host a Black & White Ball to commemorate this milestone achievement.
Identifying Event Types:
Second, identify the event type.
Corporate Events:
Galas, Grand Openings, Merger/Acquisitions, Staff Celebrations (company BBQ, Holiday Parties, customized Team Building), Client Appreciations, VIP Retreats, and Product Launches.
Business Social Events:
Anniversary Parties, Engagement Parties, Birthday Parties, Conference Opening Night Parties.
Non-Profit/Associations:
Fundraising Galas, Fundraising Casinos, Virtual Fundraising, Murder Mysteries.
Celebration of Life Events:
Personal, family or company recognition events.
Implementing A Collaborative Event Design:
After you have set your objectives and identified your event type, the next step is to work closely with the client by having a collaborative approach to event design.
When working with clients we take several different steps to ensure there are opportunities for collaboration and constant communication.
Event Planning Steps:
The key steps in planning an event:
Step 1: Vision Board and Pinterest Collaboration:
First things first, we share a Pinterest board for visual collaboration with our clients.
Step 2: Set up a Google Drive for Document Sharing & Meetings:
Using Google Drive, we share documents. In addition, we host bi-weekly meetings and conduct multiple site inspections with our clients and all of our notes are shared here.
Step 3: Finding a Unique Location:
In an empty Train Station with 20,000 square feet of available event space, we designed and custom-built our own Manor House to hold the Ball.
Step 4: Securing Vendors and Community Connections:
Having a great relationship with vendors and connections is essential when planning events, in terms of products, services, locations, etc.
Step 5: Implementing Award-Winning Event Design
The first step in planning and award winning design is to plan the guest experience and how they will feel. And of course, we add our sparkle to make your event stand out and make it an award-winning one!
Event Décor and Design:
We turned an empty train station into a grand manor house, complete with champagne crushed velvet drapes, luxurious furnishings, and a mezzanine lounge.
A live ice sculpture celebrating 30 years was created right before our eyes!!
Activities and Entertainment:
Entertainment included Gold Angels offering champagne, a Black and White Portrait Studio, casino teaching tables, a live ice carving demonstration, and interactive activities like the Family Tree Game.
These activities were designed to encourage socializing and networking.
Evaluating Event Success:
The event’s success was reflected in its high ROI and later recognition as the BEST EVENT PRODUCED FOR A CORPORATION Esprit Award.
In Conclusion:
Each event is unique and one-of-a-kind, and we are here to make your visions come true. Follow our personalized guide with event tips on how to host your own memorable event or give us a call for support.
Need more event tips from an award-winning corporate Event Consultant? Sharon Bonner is there for you! Her customized and collaborative approach as a leading event professional in the event industry will help you design your dream event. And it will be so easy!
