It’s time to make some 2023 event predictions! If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that the event world is never truly predictable. But as we look back on 2022 there are some themes emerging that we feel confident will take more of the spotlight in 2023.
Reinventing
One thing we never could have predicted was the massive comeback in-person events made in 2022! Most clients are now preferring in-person events even to hybrid, which was somewhat unexpected. With that, there has been a welcome “refresh” to events; especially those that haven’t been fully in-person since 2019. There is significantly more openness to new ideas, fresh perspectives, and complete rehauls of events. Use this opportunity to propose those ideas that people had been closed off to in the past because “they’ve just always done it this way”! Nothing is the same as it used to be – why should your event be?!
Experiences and “Wow” Moments
With the return of live events, there is more desire for “wow” moments for guests. Things we’ve seen in 2022 include live “mermaids” in a tank, fire dancers, and photo opportunities, and we predict 2023 will bring more of the same! After 2+ years of social distancing, guests are looking forward to gathering more than ever, so let’s give them that “wow” moment to remember and lots of unique ways to connect face-to-face with their community.
Sustainable Events
Did you know that an event of 100 attendees can produce upwards of 400 pounds of trash from beginning to end? As the media and general public becomes increasingly aware of the issues facing our climate and environment, sustainability is getting more and more press. Perhaps you’ve already noticed your clients or constituents bringing up this topic more frequently. As event planners, we are on the front lines of producing change. We were privileged to learn from Ashleyn Przedwiecki of the LUUM Collective at our RAISE + ARRANGE event a few weeks ago, and she provided us with so many simple ways to decrease waste and increase sustainability this coming year. Providing compost and recycling bins, securing a food rescue program for your leftover food, or even switching to compostable utensils and plates can make such a big difference over time! Check out the LUUM Collective for her free event sustainability guide.
Inclusive Events
Another prediction we have for 2023 is a greater focus on inclusive events; not just for visible disabilities (although this is still so important!), but also for invisible disabilities. Thinking this way takes time and effort, but it serves your constituents and increases the chances that you can secure more proponents for your cause (who may have felt excluded previously)! Perhaps you have heard the term “Know Before You Go” or “KBUG”; a simple way to care well for your disabled guests is to send an email beforehand with directions, parking instructions, and pictures or a link to the event space. Even better – ask your guests within the registration process if there is anything you can do to make the event more accessible to them! Take the time to think through things that might impact a guest with sensitivity to sound, lights, or whom might have a hard time walking long distances (to name a few). It will go a long way in making your guests feel cared and thought for on the day of your event.
If you’re anything like us, you are optimistic about the future of events and ready to take on whatever 2023 throws you! And with that, the Pantone color of the year is…
“Pantone’s Color of the Year, Viva Magenta 18-1750, vibrates with vim and vigor. It is a shade rooted in nature descending from the red family and expressive of a new signal of strength. Viva Magenta is brave and fearless, and a pulsating color whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative.
This year’s Color of the Year is powerful and empowering. It is a new animated red that revels in pure joy, encouraging experimentation and self-expression without restraint, an electrifying, and a boundaryless shade that is manifesting as a stand-out statement. PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta welcomes anyone and everyone with the same verve for life and rebellious spirit. It is a color that is audacious, full of wit and inclusive of all.” -Pantone.com
Let’s all take on 2023 with the vim, vigor, and inclusivity of Viva Magenta!