Planning a meeting or convention in Winnipeg, and looking for tips to make your event memorable and successful? Meetings Winnipeg recently sat down with Emma Singh, Founder & CEO of Events by Emma – named one of Canada’s Top 5 Planners. Emma shared some advice to help your next event shine.
What does a successful event look like in 2018?
We’re seeing clients want to personalize their events – having a unique brand for an event is certainly becoming more popular. Our clients are looking for something that will get them to stand out. Whether that’s eye-catching decorations, an exclusive food menu or memorable entertainment – we will work with them to find that personalized twist!
Are you seeing any design trends that are coming back? What’s trendy these days?
In colours, navy seems to be the new black – it’s being used more and more as a neutral shade. Décor is also skewing more towards metallics – chrome and silver seem especially to be shining. It’s always interesting to follow the re-emergence of old fashion trends. Right now, the 1970s are coming back as an influence in interior design. We’re using high visual-impact décor like marble, macramé, crochet, and bright patterns. What’s old is always new!
Is that true for entertainment as well – is old new?
Our clients are looking to create entertainment experiences for their guests. We’re seeing more interactivity from entertainers – musicians and local buskers put a fun spin on the standard dinnertime musical accompaniment. We’re setting up photo booths at a lot of events, or anything else to get attendees up and moving. Ultimately, our clients are wanting to create a venue to engage their guests, and provide them with an unforgettable experience.
One thing we’re doing more is tapping into Folklorama as a source of top-flight entertainment. Winnipeg’s cultural festival may run only two weeks of the year, but in that time we highlight some of our city’s best musicians and dancers. When we hire these artists, we’re seeing the best of what Winnipeg has to offer artistically while leaving a lasting impression with everyone in attendance.
Are there any trends emerging in mealtime events?
We’re actually seeing a return to formality – elegant sit-down dinners and black tie events are making a comeback. That being said, we’re planning these dinners so that they’re still fun and engaging – a formal event doesn’t mean it has to be a stuffy event. However, people might need a refresher in what order to use your cutlery if it’s been a few years!
Does that mean there’s a return to formal menus?
Not at all! Unique food is still very trendy. We’re seeing a lot of interactive food tables at our events, including cooking demonstrations where you get to take the recipe home with you. Unique food can also make an impression, which is why we’ve set up make-your-own sushi stations, raw bars, and creative desserts including popsicle stations or doughnut walls. Doughnuts are very hip right now, and with great local selections available from Winnipeg bakers this is always extremely popular.
Is highlighting Winnipeg important to you when you’re planning events?
Absolutely! Our philosophy at Events by Emma is to shop and use local suppliers and vendors as a way to showcase our city’s talent and service providers. There is a world-class supply of food, entertainment and other event resources in Winnipeg. When I pitch an idea to my clients on how to make their event shine using Winnipeg resources and talent, they’re excited at the variety of all we can offer at the highest quality level. It makes my job easy, and I love seeing how impressed clients are at the end of our events.
If you’re looking for help setting up your next meeting or event, contact Events by Emma for a curated and innovative approach, from planning to execution.
