Event Ideas for 2017

As the New Year approaches, event professionals look ahead with anticipation to the hottest event trends for 2017. The thirst for what is new and stimulating in the events world is unquenchable, and NACE members are at the forefront of that creativity. Experiential guest engagement on every front will continue to be the ultimate priority in the coming year.

Make a difference
In 2017, giving back in tangible ways will mean more than ever, as social and meeting planners are incorporating both recognition and community service into corporate and social events as a way to engage their guests. Planning team building retreats in partnership with local charities will not only increase productivity, but encourage volunteerism. Consider donating unused event food to local food banks or shelters, and share this with guests, employees, and customers on social media. Donate event flowers and centerpieces to local hospitals or senior citizen centers to brighten the day of someone who needs a little cheer. When guests can engage in meaningful ways, it becomes an even more memorable experience.  If you employ these efforts, be sure to use the hashtag #eventprosgiveback when on social media.

Raise a glass
Thirsty guests crave creativity, and there is no shortage of ways to incorporate tasty beverages into an event. Craft cocktails paired with locally sourced ingredients will bring the cool factor to the plate and palate in 2017.  At a recent dinner, a savory parmesan panna cotta with tomato gelée, basil reduction, and balsamic vinegar paired perfectly with a rosemary infused local vodka to create an explosion of flavors and textures—a literal feast for the senses.

Design stations to enchant guests with memorable cocktail experiences.  An interactive wine and chocolate pairing complete with tasting notes will highlight the flavor nuances of each pairing. The thirst for craft beer will continue; consider a beer and meatball pairing station with locally sourced beef and brews, to tantalize taste buds.

Engage your audience
Boring corporate events are a thing of the past, so look to interactive meetings and conferences becoming the norm in 2017. Talking heads will not capture and keep the attention of our thrill-seeking clientele. Challenge your clients to use mobile technology for in-meeting Q&A sessions, along with interactive handouts via event apps, to keep your meetings exciting and your attendees fresh and focused throughout the day. Active meetings stoke the creative fires, so include team building exercises to keep meetings exciting and engaging. Mid-day putting contest, anyone?

Challenge the norm
While every client wants their event to be unique and memorable, the best events allow guests to experience distinct uniqueness in every way. Lighting will continue to be a feast for the eyes to highlight essential event design features. Incorporating tables of different sizes and shapes keeps the mundane away, and ensures events don’t feel like boring banquets.

 Through cutting-edge technology, entertainment, unique design elements, and delectable menus, event trends will continue to stimulate the five senses, while producing impressive events with both a sense of style and community.

Lisa Carruth, CPCE, is the Director of Catering and Member Events, BraeBurn Country Club and Immediate Past President, NACE Houston Chapter

Photos: D. Jones Photography

Get Fresh, November 2016