Amazing entertainment is a key element to extraordinary events, and is often what guests remember for a lifetime. It can be a sizeable part of an event budget, so it’s no wonder that clients expect a true return on their investment. The latest trends reflect a demand for unique and personalized event entertainment.
Booking trends
Typically events have ranged from a standard of four to a slightly more luxurious five hours in length, which has long dictated the average DJ or band contract. Destination events, however, have created a whole new demand, as parties frequently last long into the night.
Clients are now more efficiently using their money and time by booking multiple bands or combos, or hiring a DJ along with other live musicians and vocalists instead of hiring the traditional big band. These combinations are generally more versatile and provide a more unique dynamic to enhance the guest experience.
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“People are drawn to the experience of participating in their food preparation, whether it’s selecting ingredients or simply watching the magic unfold before their eyes.”
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Above & beyond
Clients want more than just great music when they envision the entertainment for their events. The priority is guest engagement and providing some serious fun.
Think about your events from the perspective of the guests. What are your opportunities to turn a necessity into something exciting or interactive? Live action stations where guests not only see their food prepared in small portions, but where they also get to talk with the chef about the origins of the meal, the preparation methods, and the inspiration behind the dishes are far more fun than a standard buffet or seated meal.
Like live action stations, food animation is also growing in popularity. Both can be great during cocktail receptions, or throughout events with a casual flow, when guests would otherwise just be eating. People are drawn to the experience of participating in their food preparation, whether it’s selecting ingredients or simply watching the magic unfold before their eyes.
Specialty and regional entertainment is another way to make an event memorable. In Morocco, fire eaters are popular and offer a stunning glimpse into a local tradition. Depending on your theme or location, you might consider hiring a hula troupe and Polynesian fire dancers (face it, open flame is stunning and is pretty much always a crowd pleaser!), belly dancers, or a group performing period dancing like 1920s costumed flappers.
No matter what forms of entertainment you employ, the goal is always the same: to create an incredible and unforgettable guest experience.
Fabrice Orlando is the CEO of Cocoon Events Management Group, a luxury event planning company based in Marrakech, Morocco that specializes in high-end weddings and special events worldwide.
