Secret of design…

This is the unedited version of an article from MIX June 2010…

Secrets for designing a memorable dinner event…

Design the event with the guests in mind.

Who is the event for? Does it suit their taste? Imagine the event from the guests’ perspective. Imagine the whole event, from the initial touch-point where the guest receives the invitation. Where will they be coming from? Office home? Are they driving? If so where do they park?. What is the arrival like? Who greets them? Is there signage?  What sort of feeling do they have? Do they know the other guests? Go through the entire event from the perspective of a guest, ask what do they hear? What do they see? How do they feel? How do you influence their senses to achieve your goals? This is where the true creative side of the designer comes into play. Put yourself in the guests shoes and ask; What would I think of this event?

Be sure to keep in mind the goals and objectives of the event.

Every event has a purpose every event has at least one goal. Sometimes it can be as simple as celebrating a life and having a good time. Other times it can be more complex (to raise awareness for a company or product, to motivate employees or create camaraderie). Start with determining the goals and objectives of the event then determine how the success or failure will be measured.

Make sure the overall design incorporates F&B.

If the styling is modern then work with the chef to create a modern menu. If you are doing an all Asian design serve all Asian cuisine. If it is a cocktail style, all mingling, limited seating then ensure the menu is easy to eat with one hand (all bite size) nothing worse than trying to juggle a plate, a fork and a wine glass while trying to talk to someone.

Create a good management plan.

Look at all the resources available and the restrictions. There is no point exploring the possibilities of a big build if you only have a 2 hour set up time. Design your management structure so each section knows what their roles and responsibilities are. Look to who will be responsible for each section of the event from the F&B to the technical set up to the entertainment.

Make sure that the décor reflects the theme and is homogenous with the rest of the event. If budget is a concern choose a venue that reflects the theme already so less dressing is needed. If the venue is pre chosen use a color scheme and décor that will work with the existing space. Always better to work with the big ugly chandelier than make it stick out even more by having everything contrast it.

Make sure to do a risk assessment.

Ensure the safety of your guests. You are responsible. All your linens should be non flammable or fire proofed. Any hanging décor should be rigged properly. Nothing kills the mood of a party like an accident. Make sure you do a complete risk assessment then before guests arrive do a walkthrough to check the safety and make sure the standards you set are in place.