THE LAST WORD
Festive Affairs, Without the Burnout By Kate Patay L et’s be real, summer event season can feel like a whirlwind. The energy is high, the calendars are full, and the pressure to deliver flawless, Insta-worthy experiences is very real. But behind every show-stopping soirée is a team of professionals running on caffeine, adrenaline, and—if we’re being honest—not nearly enough sleep.
a quiet nook with comfy seating and calm music where guests (and yes, even you) can take a breather. One of my favorite gifts right now is the “event pro recovery kit.” Think reusable moisturizing socks for load-in days, under- eye cooling gels, essential oil rollers, shower steamers, and travel-size pillow spray. Whether you put it together for your team, client, or yourself, it’s a small gesture showing you value well-being. On-site, don’t be afraid to set boundaries. You don’t have to be the last one to leave the afterparty every night. Delegate. Take shifts. Trust your team. Wellness isn’t just bubble baths and matcha lattes—it’s sustainable leadership. Of course, we can also creatively infuse these self-care values into the guest experience. Set the tone with wellness- infused welcome gifts...maybe a sleep mask and aromatherapy blend instead of just a branded tchotchke that will be left in the hotel room. Offer movement-based activities like puppy yoga or dance zones for those who want to move but also give space and permission to rest. Design areas that soothe rather than stimulate with natural textures, soft lighting, and tech-free zones. These all can do wonders for the vibe and let people choose their journey. Ultimately, it comes down to this: if we want to champion wellness for our clients and their guests, we must walk our talk. That means checking in with ourselves regularly, setting boundaries that protect our energy, and building in tiny moments of rest before, during, and after the event. Because when we show up as our healthiest, most grounded selves, we create better experiences; and isn’t that what this industry is all about? So, here’s your summer self-care assignment: take the break, drink the water, stretch the stress out of your shoulders, and design your events with the same kind of care you deserve. You’ll feel the difference—and so will everyone else.
Ultimately, it comes down to this: if we want to champion wellness for our clients and their guests, we must walk our talk.
As event pros, we’re wired to take care of everyone else. We anticipate needs, troubleshoot before problems arise, and go the extra mile to ensure every guest has an incredible experience. But in the middle of all that hustle, it’s easy to forget one very important person: ourselves. That’s why it’s time to shift the conversation. Yes, we want to create events that feel restorative and wellness-focused for attendees, but we also need to be asking: how are we taking care of ourselves in the process? Because the truth is, when we’re running on empty, it shows. Not just in how we feel, but in how we lead our teams, connect with our clients, and show up creatively. So, let’s talk about how we can build in small but impactful self-care rituals for ourselves this season, while also setting the tone for the wellness-forward events today’s guests are craving. Start with the basics: hydration, rest, and healthy movement. I know it sounds obvious, but how many times have you gone through an entire site visit or install without drinking water or having a bite to eat? I found a water bottle I actually like carrying, and I keep snacks in all of my bags, jacket pockets, and emergency kits. If I've been at the laptop all day, I walk to see the sunset. These micro-moments matter, and they’re surprisingly powerful. I bring that same intention to my events. If you’re feeling exhausted, chances are your guests are, too. Build in wellness-focused moments that offer a little reset. Maybe it’s
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SPECIAL EVENTS SUMMER 2025
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