As event professionals, being creative thinkers and coming up with new and innovative ideas is in our job description. However, it can be difficult to stay in that creative mindspace when you’re just not feeling inspired. We’ve all been there, staring at a blank piece of paper or computer screen frustrated that the ideas just aren’t coming.
So, how do you get out of a creative dry spell? See some of my tried and true tips and tricks below:
Focus on this image. What could inspire you as you walk around your town in terms of colors, textures, scents? Photo courtesy Cocoon Events Management Group.
Get up; walk around
The first thing you need to do is turn off your computer and get out of your house, the studio, or wherever you’re working. Take a break from being in the events industry as a whole and get outside and walk around. For me, walking through the local outdoor markets and taking in all of the colors, sights, and sounds allows me to engage all my senses and start thinking about how I can adapt these things into my next event. Going to a museum or catching a play downtown is another great way to put oneself in a creative environment that breathes inspiration. Take a page from Minneapolis artist WACSO, who build his career out of his acronym, “Walkin’ Around, Checkin’ Stuff Out." You never know when inspiration will hit.
Get reading
Being up-to-date on trends outside of the events industry is another great way to get your creative mind working. Fashion, architecture and interior design trends tend to be on the cutting edge of what’s coming next, and other industries follow them. See what kinds of patterns and crossover you find and apply that to your events—you’ll quickly become known as a trendsetter!
Write it down
One of the best investments I’ve made is in a durable notebook that I take with me everywhere, and I strongly recommend that any creative professional do the same. Whether you’re with someone or simply walking down the street, if a great idea strikes you can quickly jot it down in your notebook. There is nothing worse than thinking of a brilliant event idea only to forget it an hour later when you’re finally back at your desk.
Everyone gets inspired in different ways, but the point is to try and think outside of the box by opening your eyes to what’s around you, and trying new things. So grab your new notebook, get outside, and get creative.
Fabrice Orlando is the CEO of Cocoon Events Group, a luxury event planning company based in Marrakech, Morocco that specializes in high-end weddings and special events worldwide.
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