6 Steps to a Memorable Event

From the Desk of Mary

Event Manager - Entrepreneur - Adventurer

When most people host an event, they have one main goal: to make a good impression.

While teaching, learning, and networking with people in your field are all important, the good feelings they’ll have after your event are what will make people remember your brand. Here are some great ways to make sure your event is a memorable one:

1. Know When to Schedule

Make sure your event doesn’t conflict with other local events or competing events in your field. A simple Google search or subscribing to local newsletters is key to picking the right date and ensuring the majority of your guest list will be able to attend. Whether you’re hosting a silent auction to raise funds, encouraging networking between professionals, or celebrating a company milestone, the event won’t be nearly as fun if no one can make it.

2. Choose a Theme

Having a set theme will make it much easier to tie the event together, especially if you’re also hosting vendors. It should inform your decisions on the event space, marketing, invitations, dress code, entertainment, food, and more. Plus, it will be one more thing that guests can participate in and experience.

3. Share your Purpose

You want to build buzz through your social media and marketing, so you need to get your guests excited! Tell them what you’re celebrating, presenting, or giving away; the out-of-the-ordinary speakers or entertainment who’ll be dazzling the crowd; and all the new and exciting things they can expect to learn, see, or hear. If your invitees are invested and excited about the event, they’re more likely to attend!

Note: make sure your purpose is also clear and easy to understand. While your organization or even the event itself may have multiple goals and topics, pick just one! Sticking with one, clear goal for the sake of marketing will help your guests more easily connect with the event and the mission.

4. Personalize Invites

Making your event memorable starts long before your guests arrive! Sending a unique, personalized invitation shows guests that you are investing time and energy not only into the event, but also into them before they even arrive! Streamlining the RSVP process also creates an important positive first impression.

5. Bring the Best to the Table

Literally!

People tend to think with their stomachs, so having the most delicious food and drinks possible will help your guests remember your event long after it’s over. If you’re providing alcohol, an experienced mixologist who can perform stunts with the drinks will help entertain guests and help them forget that they’re waiting.

Also, provide alternatives for your vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free guests. Making sure they have something to eat will go a long way to making them feel recognized and impressed.

6. Say Thank You

Include a “thank you” in both welcoming and closing speeches, and recognize all the people, including the guests, who made your event happen.

Afterwards, send another thank you note via post or email, reminding them what a great time you had in their presence and how special the event was because of their participation. Fostering a sense of appreciation and community will keep attendees coming back for more.