Decor and More
Add impact and green factor to your next event with these tips for using scenic elements successfully
by Deborah Borsum and Lori Manby | Published in July 2008 decor | Focus on Production | green events | scenic design
What’s hot in our industry often parallels the fashion world. And in a sense, décor is fashion, with a modern twist. Just as fashion continually, self-referentially re-invents itself, so does event décor.
The rental “prop” décor of the past is often thought of as kitschy or passé. But the one-dimensional props of yesteryear have evolved into authentic scenic elements. They’re interesting, dimensional and impactful. When used correctly, they bring something new and exciting to your events — and if it’s rental décor, it’s earth-friendly too, as it can be used multiple times, generating less waste (and putting more money in your pocket) than one-time-use, custom or disposable products. It’s a perfect way to up your event’s green quotient.
Here’s how to incorporate scenic elements into your next event successfully.
Focus.
Bring décor into unexpected places and consider using scenic elements in new applications. Once you have determined what the key elements are for each area, focus on placement. Determine where props will make the most impact. In any single setting, there should be one focus.
Add dimension.
Bring the décor away from walls and incorporate it into other aspects of your event. Settings with depth and dimension are much more pleasing to the eye. Depth happens when a backdrop is layered with a series of scenic elements that are further embellished with decorative details.
Theme, theme everywhere.
Always keep your theme in mind and carry it through every decorative element of the event. Not only must your scenic elements be consistent, but your floral and tabletop designs must be too. Every decorative component should speak to the event’s style and mood.
Tie it together.
Every event has a unifying theme. It may not be as obvious as “Sports” or “Through the Decades,” but the message you or your client is trying to communicate by hosting the event should be evident. For example, use the company color to tie together many elements during an employee recognition event. By blanketing the room with all things “blu” for a corporate awards dinner, we created an exciting look while also re-enforced the company brand.
Make it larger than life.
From a design perspective, scale is significant. Often bigger is better! When guests experience scenic elements that are to scale or even larger than life, such as giant butterflies or towering trees, it makes a strong impression. Scenic décor in 2008 is not small and under-scaled. It is dramatic and makes a statement.
Furthermore, you don’t want scenic elements to get lost when guests enter the room. They need to be seen throughout the event. One way to increase their scale and drama is to place them on stages or risers throughout the room, so even the tallest person cannot obstruct the décor’s visual impact.
Sometimes less is more.
Overcrowding settings can make your event design appear messy and poorly organized. Ask yourself what the purpose of the setting is, and then focus on one or two main décor elements that help you achieve that goal. For example, if you are creating a food station, then the food should be the star. Don’t overdo the scenic elements to take the focus away. Instead, choose décor that will complement the food presentation.
Be purposeful.
Always remember that scenic elements are great to use if they help present your theme in an appropriate way. Look for purposeful décor that enhances your event and don’t compromise on quality, scale or appropriate placement.
Today’s scenic elements have a new sophistication. The use of great event décor allows us to create uniquely stylized events that not only stretch our creative imaginations, but allow us to present unique and exciting event experiences unlike any guests have had before.
About the author: Deborah Borsum and Lori Manby
Guest columnist Deborah Borsum (left), a certified special event professional (CSEP), event rental professional and marketing director, is the CEO of The Meetinghouse Companies Inc., a Chicago-area special event design and production company. Lori Manby (right), CSEP, is a producer at Meetinghouse.
Contact: dborsum@meetinghouse.com; lmanby@meetinghouse.com