Stepping Back in Time – Our 1920’s Themed Event

If there is one event that allows our team to think outside the box and come up with some really creative elements it’s the annual Envision Financial View Awards. My team was honoured to be brought in as the event manager for the third year in a row. We also had the privilege of working with an excellent internal planning committee who brought some great ideas and hard work to the table. After a successful event debrief and a week of reflection, I would say the below four elements greatly contributed to the overall outcome:

How great is this 1920’s camera we used as a prop?

1) A Glamorous 1920’s Theatre

I am so lucky to work with a decorator who shares my vision and helps turn crazy ideas into realities. I always seek suppliers with can-do attitudes and nothing is impossible when it comes to my decorator. Together we come up with creative solutions to fit within the budgets provided. For the View Awards we scoured prop warehouses and found an antique camera, 1920’s art deco chair, and a microphone to name a few items. We transformed a plain ballroom into beautiful theatre. Lighting was a huge part in creating the feel and the crew did a fabulous job enhancing the décor and staging through the use of lights.

It’s amazing what you can do with some feathers and cool lighting.

2) The Cast

Approximately 450 guests attended the event. Only a small handful came without a costume. If there is one thing I LOVE about this client/organization it is that they know how to have a good time. From 1920’s reporters, gangsters, flappers and dapper fellows to a full 1920’s baseball team, the costumes were out in full force.

Just a few flappers enjoying the show.

3) Photo Area

There are certain groups that would simply not partake in a photo booth set up. Thankfully this is not one of those groups. The photo area was in use all night and we made sure to have a great photographer on hand to capture the shenanigans. We set up the platform, backdrop and provided props while the guests did the rest.

Who doesn’t love a photo booth?

4) Lights, Camera, Action!

The script we use for this event is about 40 pages in length and includes everything from timing to each and every AV cue as well as exactly what the presenters will be saying. I won’t lie, it’s time consuming to create (alright, it’s a pain) but key to a well run show. The show included a pre-recorded announcer, slideshow, live camera feed, follow spot light, videos and music throughout. With an excellent AV crew, well-rehearsed emcees and a whole lot of luck we ended the show to the minute and without a single AV glitch. Phew!

Screens, iPads, iPods, Laptops, Macbooks, Sound and Lighting boards, oh my…

If you are looking for an experienced Vancouver Event Planner to assist with your next themed award show, dinner or reception, consider giving the team at Rare Affairs a call.