Monday Mashups: We're All About A Great First Impression

What's one of the most effective ways to leave a lasting impression on event attendees? According to BizBash, it's focusing on their first impression. In addition to a smooth check-in experience, thoughtful event design elements—such as floral-filled entryways, creative signage, and on-theme entertainment—can ensure a positive experience for guests as soon as they arrive.

From a stylish shoe valet to a champagne-filled freight elevator to a red carpet with a massive fish tank, here are some clever ways recent event entrances have made their mark.

1. Start the experience outside the venue.

Gin brand Monkey 47 worked with the Narrative Group for its first immersive pop-up in New York in April. Guests were welcomed to the warehouse-like venue by a large, jungle-theme mural outside; the mural's design continued inside the space, which featured lush, greenery-filled decor.

2. Immediately immerse guests in the decor.

Decor can be used to immerse guests in the event experience right at the entrance. At HBO's after-party for the 2018 Emmy Awards, designer Billy Butchkavitz created a lush Garden of Eden theme. Guests entered the party through a floral-filled tunnel.

3. Offer drinks and other amenities right away.

In February, Beverly Hills philanthropists Christine and Gabriel Chiu worked with Aliana Events to host a vibrant, design-heavy event to celebrate Chinese New Year. As guests climbed the stairs to the event, they were greeted with champagne and lychee cocktails. At the top was a re-creation of the entrance to Chinatown in Los Angeles, branded with the Chiu name.

4. Host an activity at the entrance.

The Bata Shoe Museum's 20th anniversary gala in Toronto in 2015 used a maze to inspire guests to explore its galleries. At the entrance, guests were given "clue cards" that encouraged them to find the answers to various puzzles by entering different galleries. The event's design, created by Candice & Alison, featured maze-like markings that appeared in hot pink patterns on the floor. The markings also acted as directional signage that led guests into various parts of the venue.

5. Liven up a traditional red carpet.

If your event has a red carpet at the entrance, spice it up by incorporating on-theme props and designs. For the premiere of the HBO film My Dinner With Hervé, designed by Billy Butchkavitz, a step-and-repeat referenced Hervé Villechaize’s first career as a painter in France. The title of the film was displayed in portraits of various paintings against a green wall. The event took place in October in Los Angeles.

There's more ideas where those came from! Get inspired and devour the details of using immersive decor, fun activities, and memorable entertainment to impress guests right away—leaving a great first impression!