Event Craze 2020

In early 2020, parties were illuminated in neon. The brighter the better. Throwback was a constant theme. Video games, disco balls, roller skates, and pop tarts! What’s old is new again.

“Disco balls, tinsel, shiny, metallic, and over-the-top,” says Jenna Urbauer of Mandell Display Design. “We have a large selection of this in stock, and we are ready to pull out our pink wigs and rock it out!”

Alpha Amusement’s Chris Pascaretti can attest to the rebirth of classic games, saying that “people love the feel of the old school arcade games that include buttons and a joystick. There has been a transition away from flat TV screens to hands-on physical games. Some of these games include Basketball, Skeeball, Bowling, Bubble Hockey, Dance Dance Revolution, Foosball, Ping Pong, and even Pinball. Adding an element of competition to an event can provide hours of entertainment and create lasting memories.”

Interactive experiences will also remain a focus for 2020. People crave human connection. Give your guests an opportunity to put down their devices and join in the fun. Let’s give your guests something to talk about! Greet your guests with jugglers and stilt walkers, surprise them with performances by local talent or a beat boxer, and even allow your guests to customize their own giveaway. For example, on-site screen printing, airbrush graffiti, and custom sock printing allow your guests to choose their colors and design, and leave with exactly what they want. Think outside the box. The more creative the better!

Justin Munter Photography

Food is one of the most important elements of any event. From creative displays to unique pairings, there are plenty of ways to keep your guests impressed and satisfied. “With custom and creative menus to wonderful displays full of art and creativity - food must look as good as it tastes! Our 100% home-made pasta has been a hit and we recently added stations that include ultimate waffle pops and house made flavored marshmallows,” says Erika Miller from Great Lakes Culinary.

Brett Mountain Photography

When speaking with caterers, they were insistent that menus should include lots of veggies and options for those eating clean. Every kitchen in town is dreaming up ways to put a healthy spin on all the classic dishes. “Think retro - junk food done healthy like cauliflower mac n’ cheese, and desserts such as fruity pebble fudge, mini pop tarts stuffed with ice cream, and cookie dough sundaes,” says Carole Wendling of Higher Authority Catering. “Dietary preferences have really changed throughout the past couple of years. Keto + Vegan + Gluten-free menus are on the rise, impacting 50% of our menus. Craft mocktails are also a new favorite.”

Robert Bruce Photography

Choosing a unique venue allows you to push your creativity and talents to the extreme. Think studios, galleries, lofts, warehouses, theaters and more. Select a venue that will allow you to accentuate your brand, goal and overall mood. With a creative planning team, events at the same venue never have to look or feel the same twice!

Paul Stoloff Photography

Our suggestion: yes to gold, glitter, and sequins! Less donut walls and more charcuterie. Make way for sustainable glassware and linens and skip the disposable products and extra waste. Recycle wherever you can. Bring the outdoors in - or better yet, have the party under the stars. Remain inclusive, the more the merrier. Most importantly, don’t wait for a reason to get together - CELEBRATE OFTEN!