When planning an event, small details can truly stand out and become the “wow” factor that will resonate with your guests. These can include aspects of your event that no one will expect and that become what stands out the most. If you’re looking to leave that lasting impression on your guests at your next event, here are some ways that will seal the deal:

  1. Re-creation of a unique venue. Barns, warehouses, wine cellars are anything but your typical event venue. Hanging a chandelier in a barn and beautiful floral stands out even more in a traditionally rustic space. If they are walking into an amazing decorated party at a barn, the wow factor decor is unexpected and a pleasant surprise for your guests. However, it is important that you communicate the dress code to your guests so they know that they aren’t showing up to a backyard party, but rather an elegant and stunning event.
  2. Living centerpieces are not only unique, but they are also a fun surprise! A big cylinder with beautiful live fish swimming around topped off with colorful or white florals will make your guests “ooh” and “aah” all night long. The sky’s the limit with your centerpieces, make sure you make them your own!
  3. Brand the bathroom with your own personal touch for your event. Add your logo or names/initials on the doors, windows, mirrors, or walls! Any customized aspect will stand out to your guests and tie your theme together.
  4. Live, exciting entertainment that goes beyond your typical DJ or band. Think outside the box here, and provide an experience for your guests at your event. Fire breathers, stilt walkers, or aerialists will add the intrigue that would be impossible to forget for weeks to come!
  5. Bars made out of ice are a unique touch that are the definition of “wow” factor! Try a martini ice luge that not only stands out but provides a fun interactive experience for your guests. For especially cool inspiration, look at the stunning ice bars used by the Crystal Plaza in Livingston.

  1. Elevate your late night treats to a new level. These days, everyone expects a snack on the way out of a party after a long night of dancing and celebration. Whether it’s a sweet candy bar or a warm, salty pretzel, it’s always there and waiting to replenish guests at practically every event. Treat your guests with a new surprise such as a beautiful patisserie, a news stand, a live person wearing a candy dress are to name a few. Use your imagination and have fun with it!
  2. Have one or two beauty assistants that stay in the ladies room the entire event for quick hair or make-up touch ups for all your guests. This is yet another way to make your guests feel pampered and at their very best, and they’ll surely appreciate it!
  3. Adding live music along with your DJ revolutionizes your event’s party atmosphere. Who says you can’t have the best of both worlds? Mix it up from the typical DJ set with a live band that will get your guests out of their seats and onto the dance floor all night long.
  4. Push outside the box with the entrance to your event. Whether it’s a wedding or a mitzvah, a unique grand entrance will always excite your guests and set the tone for your event! The first impression is not to be overlooked when ensuring that your event nails that desired “wow” factor.

There are always countless ways to elevate your event and create a stunning impression that your guests will never forget! Let’s figure your own set of “Wows”!

Lisa Ivler

Lisa Ivler is an experienced New Jersey event planner and owner of Lisa Ivler Events. Established in 2016, Ms. Ivler’s full-service event planning firm focuses on weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, milestone birthdays, and corporate occasions in New York City, NJ, CT, and PA. Lisa is an active member of the International Live Events Association, the world’s largest community of event professionals, as well as the Association of Bridal Consultants.