Why use a theme? It provides interest and coherence for the attendees. Planning is more efficient with a theme, creating an automatically organized process. In addition, the key to a successful event is audience participation. The more involved people become in the event they are attending, the more likely they are to enjoy themselves and remember the experience. Attendees may not remember the name of the keynote speaker, but they will remember the "Wacky Olympics" special event!
When is a theme appropriate? Anytime. When done properly, themes can be used to enhance a business meeting, client appreciation, awards event, and even reunions.
How is a theme chosen? Define the goals of your event first; what you want to accomplish with the event, who is attending, and what you want them to take away with them. Then, you can decide what theme options may work.
Creative brainstorming: Producing a new idea that ties in with the event can be a great challenge. An effective way of coming up with new and innovative ideas is to work with a group of people to draw synergy out of fun, and to build cooperative teamwork to produce ideas and solutions. Find a meeting space free of distraction--phones, foot traffic, etc. A storyboard can be helpful in this meeting so that all ideas can be captured with an open mind. Some of the smallest ideas can turn into the best campaigns.
Make sure it is the right theme or concept: The best ideas can end up a failure unless the details of the theme and campaign are thought out. Ask specific questions like: Does it fit within the organization's image? Will it offend any of our customers or employees, or conflict with our products? Is it one people will remember? Is the message clear, or lost within the creative? Is it an idea to be proud of and put in the portfolio?
Are theme events expensive? They don't have to be. Some of your theme ideas can be accomplished with a small budget if you and your committee are willing to spend the time. However, a much better use of your time and money may be to use a meeting planner, professional decorator, or entertainment company.
Decorating tips for theme events: Consider three to four main areas of the facility for theme props. Main focus areas can include the entryway to the event, stage, dance floor, guest tables, or food and beverage stations, to name a few.
Checkout props and displays: A visit to the prop shop or decorator will allow you the opportunity to see the quality, size, and color of the design ideas and available props. While at the studio, ask to see their portfolio to view actual designs used at various events and browse to see what other props or displays they have. This trip may awaken an idea several months later for a future project.
Theme ideas for your next event:
•Casino Night•Winter Wonderland
•Murder and Mystery
•M*A*S*H
•Tropical Island
•South of the Border
•Cruise Ship
•Underwater
•African Jungle
•Mexican Fiesta
•Tropical Rain Forest
•Mardi Gras
•Western/ Wild West
•Circus! Circus!
•Medieval Castle
•International Themes
•Hawaiian Luau
•Nautical
•Fabulous 50s
•The Great Northwest
•Great Gatsby Party
•The Jazz Club
•State Fair
•Super Bowl
•Around the World
•Chinese New Year
•Beach Party
•Treasure/Scavenger Hunt
•Toy Chest
•Haunted Halloween
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