Event Planning Guide

Are you planning a blow-out birthday bash? Or perhaps looking for ideas on organising an event with a difference? We got expert advice from Downings Marquees, Fabriek and Rainbow Experiential Marketing to help you organise your special day.

Thinking of hiring a marquee? Downings Marquee Hiring offers a variety of options to cater for any event type. Here are four top tips:

1. Shop Around: There are so many different options when renting a “tent”. There are A-Frame marquees, bedouins, peg and poles, easy shades, and many others. It’s important that you know what the advantages and disadvantages of each option are. Different service providers will also have different quality products, so it’s very important that you do your research to get what you really want.

2. Visualise On Paper: The best way to know what size marquee you need is to create a realistic site layout of exactly what you want inside and around the marquee. If you are hosting a large function, trust the experts with this task; but if you are planning a smaller function, you can do this yourself by visiting the Downings website and creating your own on the DIY lay-out tool.

3. Be Creative: A marquee is much like a blank canvas, so be creative when deciding what your venue should look like. There are so many options that you can use to transform your space, but the use of specialised lighting and draping really makes a substantial impact.

4. The Sky Is The Limit: From adding a veranda and lounge pockets to tunnels connecting one area to the next, A-Frame marquees can be shaped and designed to suit your specific needs. Certain areas could have a see-through roof while others could have glass doors; platforms can be created to raise certain areas within the marquee, and so much more. It is always best to talk to the experts for advice and guidance.

For more information, visit downings.co.za.

Embarking on an event? Explore these interactive digital event communication tips from Fabriek.

1. Have Them at Hello: Sending an online invitation ALWAYS creates a lasting impression. Make sure your guests have all the information they need in one place. Include enticing images, video, a link to google maps for directions – or stand out as someone who promotes a sober driving policy by providing booking information for a taxi service. Just remember to talk about why the recipient will simply have to RSVP with an excited ‘YES!’.

2. Keep Them Engaged: Better options and bad weather are the top two excuses attendees give for non-attendance. Social media is a great way to sustain the delicious intrigue that snagged your invitation recipient in the very beginning. Create an event page and post tantalising teasers – your guests will be less tempted to ditch your do in lieu of a sofa snuggle or rugby + craft beer + bubbly with your bestie.

For more information, visit fabriek.co.za.

Looking to create an event with the wow-factor? Rainbow will design experiences to inspire.

The burning question when planning a special occasion is: Should I get help in producing the event or not?  Here, the most important factors to consider are:

–       the company’s credentials and expertise

–       their sphere of influence and what they can bring to the party!

–       Will they save money by leveraging discounts from suppliers?

Rainbow Experiential Marketing ticks all the boxes, as their specialty is world-class events, having recently staged the extraordinary 2014 Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Restaurant Awards.

Established in 1994, Rainbow has produced countless events for massive crowds of 100 000 or superb events for 10 guests. Their recipe to success is simple – equal measures of innovation and organisation.

Alison McCutcheon, founder member and creative director of Rainbow says: “Our lives are measured by milestones, marked by celebratory events whether business, leisure or pleasure. At Rainbow we specialise in memorable productions by creating unique experiences designed to inspire, enthrall and entertain.”

For more information, visit rainbowexperientialmarketing.com.