At Everyone Events, we know a thing or two about hosting a memorable event. With extensive experience in everything from Asian weddings to sporting soirees, we know the types of things that can make or break an event. We’ve spent years perfecting different solutions for our clients, and we are always on the lookout for new trends and techniques. Here are the top 5 event trends we are seeing that will undoubtedly shape event planning in 2018.
Beyond Wifi
According to recent research, an overwhelming majority of event marketers (86%) believe that technology can have a major impact on the success of their event. However, it’s no longer just about ubiquitous WiFi and a memorable hashtag. Today’s guests are demanding more. The use of virtual reality in presentations is becoming more common place, and live streaming for virtual guests can also broaden the appeal and interest in your event. Social media is also playing a larger and larger role in event success and engagement. Things like custom SnapChat filters are becoming increasingly popular for special events as are event save-the-dates distributed via Instagram.
Ditch the After Party
It used to be customary for large conferences, corporate events or even weddings to host day-time activity in one location, and evening activity in another. In 2018, you will start to see events taking place in one single location, seamlessly transitioning from day to night. When forcing guests to change venues, you needlessly disrupt the energy of the event, and often lose people along the way. Key to this transition is an atmospheric change signalled through lighting, music or furniture arrangement. If done well, a single location keeps more guests engaged for longer.
Dazzling Dining
Great food is expected at any event. However, in 2018, we will start to see the demand for exciting cuisine on the rise, especially with corporate events. Exciting food helps to engage your guests and get them talking, but it also plays a big role in keeping them alert all day. Everyone Events works with a carefully selected group of quality caterers to provide clients with a wonderful selection of menu choices and dry hire options are available within some hall hire packages. Either way, it’s important to remember that no matter how impactful your presentation, your guests will always remember the food.
Into the Unknown
To provide a truly memorable event, businesses and event organisers are beginning to immerse their guests into a complete ‘experience.’ With the clever use of venue, décor and technology, spaces can be completely transformed into a special theme or setting. It’s no longer good enough to go to an event and watch a presentation or sit down to a meal. Guests want to be surprised and made part of the experience too. For example, some clever planners are keeping the location of their event a secret, sending guests a text message with the location just hours before the start time. When guests arrive, they may be lead through a unique setting like an enchanted forest, a haunted tunnel or a winter wonderland. The theme only becomes known upon arrival. With food, lighting and entertainment to match, it makes for an unforgettable experience.
Refresh and Recharge
To keep guests entertained and engaged, there is a growing trend in event planning to incorporate unique activities like interactive classes, competitions, workshops and even exercise classes. The key to guest interaction is choosing an activity that fits the type of event you’re hosting. For example, a corporate event could benefit from a mid-day stretching session whereas a private party may enjoy a mindfulness workshop. Sitting in one place for the whole day can be draining. Incorporating relevant activities can be an excellent way to combat boredom, stimulate creativity and promote team building.
For more information, including a list of our UK-based venues, go to https://everyoneevents.com/ You can also follow us on Twitter @EveryoneEvents or Facebook.