Tuesday night I attended an exclusive event with top meeting and event planners at El Gaucho. We had a wonderful time. The staff at El Gaucho is fantastic, they were continually on hand to refill drinks and to assist in anyway possible. El Gaucho provided an intimate private space for us to gather. The event planners were able to talk and share ideas without interruptions. Beth at El Gaucho took us on a tour to see other private spaces available, I would strongly recommend this place to hold an event.
Wednesday, September 17th, I had the great pleasure of attending a phenomenal event hosted by the Historic Caples House in Columbia City, Oregon. Columbia City is on the other side of St. Helens, about 20 miles from Portland. The event included live music and catering by Vibrant Table, Katering by Kurt, Simpatica Catering, Devil’s Food Catering and Eat Your Heart Out.
This beautiful facility just opened its grounds for private events. It includes one city block in a park-like setting with breath-taking views of the Columbia River, a Heritage Orchard with 130-year-old apple and pear trees, and includes a charming Country Store. Their grounds can accommodate in excess of 300 people, and they are available for Weddings, Corporate Functions, Company Picnics – you name it. For more information, go to their website at www.capleshouse.com.
Budget is always an important factor in planning events and can often be the driving force behind decisions that are made by the planners. The challenge is to create a fantastic, eye-opening event while keeping the budget at a minimum.
By creating one major point for the décor to focus on, this takes away the expense of having many unnoticed smaller pieces. Many décor companies can help you transform unused space into a beautiful design.
Color is another piece that can dramatically impact an event. Try using variations of one color for all of the décor; this will create a beautiful and inexpensive backdrop for your event.
Lighting is a great way to add impact to your event. Gobos can be custom designed with color and /or logos to project throughout the event. Pay attention to the entrance to your event as well, as this is the first look that your guests will get.
Entertainment can take many forms. A new idea is to have an artist creating pictures during an event, try an art school or local artists to save money. Interactive entertainment will keep the guests involved and how about teaching them something as well; such as a bartender teaching how to make a specialty drink.
Source: BizBash Florida, July 2008
