Event Planning 101: Planning the ultimate VIP experience
In the spirit of the Oscars, and already inspired by our own star-studded event, Blind Date with a Star, we asked our event manager Andrew Tyne what it takes to plan the ultimate VIP experience. Find out his top tips for making sure your VIP guests leave feeling special.
Tip #1: Go in with the VIP attitude
Cast yourself for success by treating each event like it’s a VIP one. That being said, there are a few things you can do to make sure your guests leave your event feeling like celebrities (see tips #2-5).
Tip #2: Use the limelight
Lighting is a quick and easy way to really make an impression on your guests. Moving fixtures that slowly sweep around the room can create a dynamic feeling as your guests enter and find their seats. They also play beautifully off glass or mirrored centerpieces.
Tip #3: Set the ‘scene’
The best films use music to create emotion and excitement, and you can do the same for your event. Take some time before your event and plan out a play-list that goes along with your theme. Chic and classy, or contemporary? Let your music help set the mood.
Tip #4: Capture the memories
Your guests have showed up in their finest and you've created an amazing space for them to experience. Nothing says VIP like the flashing of a camera! Hiring a photographer to move around the room and get candid shots of your guests mingling is sure to make them feel like celebrities. Try to arrange with your photographer and A/V supplier to have some of the shots posted up on the big screen throughout the evening. Looking for something a little more relaxed? A service like Frankly Social allows your guests to capture the moment and helps them engage on social media.
Tip #5: Lights, camera, food!
Of course, nothing makes someone feel more like a VIP than amazing food. The easiest way to make sure that your meal isn't soon forgotten is to think of new and exciting combinations. Grilled apricots, mascarpone cheese, blackberries and honey combine together for an amazing dessert. And ,believe it or not, potato chips and a champagne like Veuve Clicquot go great together.