ON TREND
The cost of being entertained
Going all-out with entertainment is one thing, but your client's budget might be another. How much can you justify incorporating the latest and greatest entertainment? Turns out, a lot. Instead of viewing top-tier entertainment as a cost, it can be beneficial to view it as an investment into both the event and your brand. “The return is in engagement. The right entertainment can make an event unforgettable, increase brand impact, and enhance guest satisfaction,” Centner says. “The key is prioritizing entertainment that aligns with the event's goals and delivers the best value for the experience. These types of additional costs are sometimes offset by savings too.” For most planners, the benefits are worth the cost, and in today’s climate, where clients want their event to be more memorable and photo-worthy than their neighbors’, it’s easy to see the ways that paying a little more has exponential impact on the event’s outcome. “Ultimately, these trends can be worth the extra cost if they align with the event's goals and the client’s vision, enhancing the overall experience and leaving a lasting impression on attendees,” says York. “However, it's important to plan and budget carefully to ensure the investment delivers the desired impact.” If, however, the budget really doesn’t allow for the latest wow- factors, there are workarounds. “Not everything needs to be over- the-top or come with a high price tag,” says York. “While the latest tech trends are exciting, there's also a resurgence of budget-friendly
Tianyu Arts & Culture is known for their installations of intricate lantern sculptures, which tell a story and engage event goers. Photo courtesy Melissa Blackall
“The future of event entertainment is all about engagement, personalization, and storytelling.” —Sebastien Centner
options that are just as impactful. A single themed character, a talented DJ, or interactive activities like trivia can make a big difference without breaking the budget.” Do your research Before you go and hire a 15-piece band, there are a few things to consider when incorporating these entertainment trends into your events. First, make sure your audience will resonate with the trends. “Understand the event’s goals and the client’s expectations,” says York. “Communicate this clearly to the performers or entertainment team to ensure everyone is on the same page.”
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SPECIAL EVENTS SPRING 2025
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