In the heart of Ann Arbor, where the Huron River flows and memories are made, Kendrin and Matt found each other in a serendipitous love story that led them to their dream wedding at The Circ Bar and Root (now Rabbit Hole).
Their journey began with a chance encounter in the middle of the Huron River during a float trip. From that moment, their connection grew, and their first kiss unfolded on the dance floor at LIVE, marking the beginning of a beautiful romance.
As an Ann Arbor couple, Kendrin and Matt shared a deep connection to the city’s vibrant spirit. When the time came to choose a venue for their big day, they knew it had to be an Ann Arbor gem.
Their search led them to The Circ Bar and Root, a place they had frequented for football games and nights out back when it was Circus Bar & Billiards and Cavern Club. The discovery that the venue hosted weddings was a delightful surprise. Upon touring the venue, they fell in love with its all-in-one space, particularly the enchanting basement level that was Root and the Mural Courtyard.
Unfortunately, their preferred wedding date was blocked in the calendar due to a scheduled UM/MSU home game. However, COVID had other plans, and the game got rescheduled to a different weekend; fate seemed to smile on them for their dream venue and date. As a UM and MSU grad couple, it felt like destiny had intervened to make their celebration even more special.
Their wedding day unfolded with countless memorable moments, each reflecting the couple’s profound love for Ann Arbor as they seamlessly incorporated various elements of the city’s charm and culture into every aspect of their celebration.
Kendrin got ready in a mobile Hair and Makeup studio outside the venue, while Matt and their son prepared downstairs in Root. With her closest friends and family, Kendrin also finalized her bridal look upstairs in the Bridal Suite.
Their ceremony in the Mural Courtyard was a stunning affair, followed by a photo session on the railroad tracks during cocktail hour upstairs on the Lounge and Roof Deck.
The reception in the Circ bar was a sight to behold, with decorations perfectly matching the venue’s aesthetic. Copper table rings, copper pipe table numbers, farmhouse tables, and the venue’s hightops created a charming atmosphere.
The celebration concluded in Root with dancing (including the couple’s first dance!), desserts in the form of a spectacular donut display from Washtenaw Dairy on the dry bar, alongside favors from The Brinery and Cherry Republic.
Lastly, in true Ann Arborite fashion, the couple opted for a unique Boober cab ride to journey back home after their celebration.
Kendrin and Matt continue to celebrate their love every year with a lovely tradition of visiting their wedding venue every year on their anniversary. Their wedding day remains a cherished chapter in their love story—a tale of serendipity, shared laughter, and the enchantment of Ann Arbor’s magic.
Are you planning a special event but feeling overwhelmed by the task of optimizing your venue space? Don’t fret! At 210 Events, we understand the importance of making the most out of your event space to create unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re hosting a wedding reception, corporate seminar, or birthday celebration, here are some expert tips to help you maximize your event space’s layout and design.
Define Your Objectives: Before diving into the logistics of layout and design, take a moment to clearly define your event objectives. What atmosphere are you trying to create? What activities will take place during the event? Understanding these key aspects will guide your decisions throughout the planning process.
Consider Flow and Accessibility: One of the most crucial elements of event space layout is ensuring smooth flow and accessibility for your guests. Arrange seating, buffet stations, and activity areas in a way that minimizes congestion and allows guests to move freely. Pay special attention to entrances, exits, and restrooms to ensure easy access for all attendees. Don’t forget other accessibility and architectural elements of the space! Our venue is completely ADA accessible so it features multiple ramps and railings.
Utilize Flexible Seating Arrangements: Opt for versatile seating arrangements that can adapt to different event formats and guest counts. Mix and match various seating options such as round tables, banquet tables, and lounge seating to create dynamic spaces that cater to different preferences and activities.
Create Focal Points: Enhance the visual appeal of your event space by incorporating focal points that draw attention and create visual interest. This could include a stunning centerpiece, a captivating stage setup, or a striking backdrop that complements your event theme and branding.
Embrace Vertical Space: Don’t forget to utilize vertical space to maximize the available square footage. Incorporate hanging decorations, lighting fixtures, or greenery to add depth and dimension to your event space without overcrowding the floor area.
Enhance Ambiance with Lighting: Lighting plays a significant role in setting the mood and ambiance of your event space. Experiment with different lighting techniques such as uplighting, string lights, and spotlights to create the desired atmosphere and highlight key features of your venue.
Personalize with Décor: Infuse your event space with personality and charm by incorporating personalized décor elements that reflect your style and theme. From table centerpieces to signage and accents, thoughtful décor touches can elevate the overall aesthetic and leave a lasting impression on your guests.
By implementing these tips for layout and design, you can transform your event space into a captivating and functional setting that leaves a lasting impression on your guests. At our venue, we are more than happy to offer feedback on your layouts based on what other events have done if you find yourself stuck. Contact us today to start planning your next event!
Your wedding day is an opportunity to express your unique personalities and celebrate your love in a style that resonates with you. Gone are the days of traditional weddings confined to a single theme. Today, couples are embracing creativity and personalization to craft weddings that are truly one-of-a-kind and unforgettable.
Passion Projects: Bringing Your Shared Interests to Life Your wedding theme can be a reflection of something you both hold dear. Whether it’s a shared hobby, a favorite movie, or a mutual interest, incorporating it into your special day adds a personal touch.
One of our couples had a Star Trek themed wedding. Their decor were celestial themed, and they brought in a ton of greenery to transform our venue spaces into “Another Planet.” Their main welcome signage featured quotes from the series. Lastly, the bride walked down the aisle to the Star Trek theme song!
Seasonal Delights: Embracing the Beauty of the Seasons Each season offers its own unique charm, and leveraging it can create a magical atmosphere for your wedding. Picture a cozy winter wonderland adorned with twinkling lights and snowflake decor, or a vibrant spring celebration bursting with blooming flowers and pastel hues. Let the season guide your color palette, menu selections, and overall ambiance for an unforgettable experience.
One of our couples opted for tons of pumpkins for their fall celebration, with a stunning cascading pumpkin display around their sweetheart table. Their florals featured the rich deep hues of fall, all accented with bronze elements and mismatched thrifted glassware in the same colors.
Venue Aesthetic: Harmonizing with Your Chosen Setting Your venue sets the stage for your wedding, so why not let its aesthetic inspire your theme? Whether you’re exchanging vows in a rustic barn, an elegant ballroom, or an industrial warehouse, incorporating elements that complement the venue’s style enhances the overall atmosphere.
One of our couples leaned into the rustic-industrial ambiance of our venue, and only used greenery to highlight the natural warm red and brown tones. Notable examples of their decor included copper napkin rings, industrial pipe seating number holders.
Trendy Twists: Embracing the Latest Wedding Trends: Don’t be afraid to embrace current trends to add a modern flair to your wedding. Bold colors, statement florals, and eclectic decor are making waves in the wedding scene.
One of our couples pulled out all the stops. With bright florals, rainbow color napkins, and an epic disco-ball display above their dance floor, this is one wedding that lives rent free in our minds!
If All Else Fails, Choose a Color Palette and Style: If the thought of choosing a specific theme feels overwhelming, remember that you can always rely on a cohesive style or color palette to tie your wedding together beautifully. Opting for a consistent aesthetic ensures a harmonious look and feel throughout your celebration, without the need for a themed concept. Whether you’re drawn to elegant neutrals, vibrant jewel tones, or romantic pastels, selecting a cohesive color scheme sets the tone for your wedding day and allows you to express your personal style effortlessly. Pairing this with a consistent style, such as modern minimalist, rustic chic, or vintage glam, creates a cohesive design that feels polished and cohesive.
One of our couples opted for a classic boho style paired with simple neutrals. The centerpieces featured pampas, dried floral stems, with pops of white.
Remember, the most important thing is to celebrate your love surrounded by those who matter most to you. While choosing a unique theme can add an extra layer of fun and personality to your wedding day, it’s important to remember that it’s not a necessity. Even if you decide to forgo a specific theme for your wedding, you can still incorporate subtle elements inspired by the ideas mentioned earlier. Here are a couple of ideas!
Incorporate your favorite movie by adding the theme song to the pre-ceremony music
Use seasonal treats as your late-night snack, like apple cider and donuts for a fall wedding
Complement the architecture of our venue’s exposed brick walls with a soft ambiant candelight
Add a trendy display for your seating chart, such as mirrors or folding screen
Ultimately, your wedding day should be a reflection of your love story and the journey you’ve taken together. So, feel free to get creative and infuse your celebration with elements that speak to your personalities and shared experiences as a couple. Whether you choose to embrace a full-fledged theme or incorporate subtle touches inspired by your passions, the most important thing is to create a day that feels authentically “you” and leaves a lasting impression on both you and your guests. At the end of the day, what truly sticks with people is the overall ambiance of the celebration. It’s the laughter shared over delicious food, the joyous moments on the dance floor, and the heartfelt toasts made with glasses raised high. Cheers to a wedding day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments! Happy planning!
Planning an event involves many moving parts, and one of the most crucial elements is undoubtedly the catering menu. Whether you’re organizing a wedding reception, corporate luncheon, or private party, the food you serve can make or break the experience for your guests. To ensure your catering menu is a resounding success, here are some expert tips to consider:
Know Your Audience: Understanding the preferences, dietary restrictions, and cultural backgrounds of your guests is essential when curating a catering menu. Consider surveying attendees in advance to gather insights that will help you tailor the menu to their tastes.
Balance Variety: Aim for a well-rounded menu that offers a variety of flavors, textures, and dietary options. Avoid choosing only proteins or only carbs; alternatively, only salty food or only sweets.
Consider Dietary Restrictions: In today’s diverse culinary landscape, it’s essential to accommodate various dietary restrictions and preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Clearly label menu items and work closely with your caterer to ensure there are suitable choices for all guests.
Offer Interactive Stations or Food Stations: Elevate the dining experience by incorporating interactive food stations or themed food bars, where guests can customize their meals to their liking. Whether it’s a build-your-own taco bar or a self-serve coffee & tea station, interactive elements add a fun and memorable twist to your event.
Don’t Forget Beverage Pairings: Enhance the culinary experience by pairing menu items with complementary beverages. For example, domestic beer with bavarian pretzels and chicken wings would be a great choice for a sports fan rally event. Another example would be choosing a margarita as a signature cocktail to pair with a taco bar.
By following these tips and collaborating closely with your caterer, you can curate a catering menu that delights your guests’ palates, reflects your event’s theme and style, and leaves a lasting impression long after the last bite has been savored. Happy planning and bon appétit!
Wedding season is approaching quickly which means it’s time for wedding welcome parties!
At 210 Events, we have had a slew of wedding welcome parties through the years. If you are new to the events world or have not had a wedding yet or ever, then you may be wondering what a wedding welcome party is. A wedding welcome party is an event that takes place the night before the wedding either after the rehearsal dinner or a replacement of the rehearsal dinner. Traditionally, the wedding hosts are responsible for entertaining their out-of-town guests the night before their wedding.
So now, you’re probably thinking, I have another thing to plan? That’s where I come in, I have some ways to make your wedding welcome party run smoothly, stay within your budget, look beautiful, and enjoyable for your guests.
Theme
As always, I am going to start with our theme. This theme is inspired by a wedding welcome party we had in the summer, they had a bunch of super cute mismatched vases and event pitchers with a lot of colorful florals. I am going to call the theme for this wedding welcome party, that we are planning today “Thrifted Floral”. Thrifted Floral is budget friendly, beautiful, classic, and eco-concious. Read more in this previous blog-post on other ways you can make your event more green.
Moving forward, our next step is planning the vision which includes decoration, stationary, food, drinks, venue, and programming.
A lot of wedding welcome parties fall on the day before your ceremony. For our hypothetical wedding welcome party, we are going to host it on a Friday afternoon. This event is going to replace the rehearsal dinner and will start at 3 pm and end at 6 pm. I would host this event in the Lounge and Roof Deck space in June. I would not expect all the wedding guests to attend this event, so I am estimating 70 people will show up. This space would be perfect for a group of 75 or less, that way in case of bad weather, everyone can fit inside the lounge.
Designing The Vision:
This wedding welcome party is meant to be simple and elegant, therefore the only decorations I will be using are thrifted vases, pitchers, glasses, etc. and flower-alternatives. We saw a lot of brides use Ling’s Moment and Sola Wood Flowers last year; these flower-alternatives are everlasting, and have huge potential to be re-used. You can buy these new, or thrift them: you can find tons of these types of flower decorations being resold by past brides on Facebook via their Marketplace or local Buy-Sell-Trade groups.
Your floral arranagements can be enhanced further by combining artificial blooms with fresh ones for added fullness and realism. Wholesale giants like Costco and Sam’s Club offer quality florals at great prices. Trader Joe’s is also a great place to find budget-friendly florals as well.
For my glassware, I would likely stick with either neutrals (like metallics or clear glass), or a color from the wedding colors. I would let the guests take these vases home with them, and donating the leftovers to the vendors.
For more inspiration, we have put together a pinterest board full inspiration. For more casual events such as this one, you can save money by forgoing formal invitations altogether. In the spirit of being eco-friendly, I’ll be sending digital invites via Paperless Post. I am also going to create a sign for this event so that guests know they are at the right place. There will be no menus, programs, or name cards for this event.
For my invitiations, paperless post has a lot of beautiful templates to choose from. Here are a couple that I absolutely love.
For signage, I will either keep is super simple or maybe add some artwork. I love these two options.
For this event, we are also going to develop a Spotify playlist to have on. Here is a playlist I have found that I really enjoy for this event.
Food and Drink
Now we move onto the fun part, delicious food and tasty drinks. Since we want to keep this event simple and within our budget, we are going to have pizza delivered from Bigalora. There will be no desserts for this event, as it is just a simple get together before the big day.
When it comes to the drink package, I want to be budget friendly but also I do not want my guests to feel like I cheaped out. Therefore, I am going to do 1 call level drink ticket per person. For a signature drink, I am going to do one drink for each spouse. For this event, we are going to do a negroni and an old fashioned for that classic, vintage feel to go with our theme. Our venue actually creates a digital bar menu for private events, so I’m good with just having the signature drinks displayed on our TVs, further cutting down the paper and printing needs.
Programming
Since this event is an open house event for the day before a wedding, there is not much programming needed. The guests will arrive and mingle amongst themselves. The one thing I want to make sure of is that the pizza arrives and is set out on time. Other than the food, I do not have any other programming needs.
What’s Next?
I will send out the invites a few months before the event. Since I used Paperless Post, I also use this great tool to collect RSVPs as well as a way to mass send out any reminders or updates. For example, I might send a message to guests the day-of the event with parking instructions, and directions to how to access the space. I’ll also place an order for any printed signage I need as well as thrifting some vases. If I’m going with artificial flowers, I’ll make the floral arrangements the night before (P.S. this could be a really fun group activity to do together, perhaps as a casual “bachlorette” party?). I will wait until the day of the event to buy any fresh florals so they don’t wilt and dry out in the June heat.
I hope this inspires you when you plan your wedding welcome party! If you are getting married this summer and are looking for a place to host your welcome party or rehearsal dinner, please fill out an inquiry form on our website. We would be so happy to host you.
You may not realize it, but a lot of work goes into planning an event, no matter the size: be it birthday party or wedding weekend. Amidst the flurry of excitement and anticipation, there’s a crucial player who works their magic behind the scenes – your venue coordinator. While an event planner focuses on executing your overall event vision, including aesthetics and timing of event activities, a venue coordinator specializes in managing logistics specific to the venue, ensuring that in-house elements like catering, staffing, and bar packages align seamlessly with your plans.
The most common mistake clients can make is assuming that certain tasks, especially those related to the setup of rental items from external vendors, will be automatically handled by the venue coordinator without explicit communication or inclusion in the contract. Ensuring effective communication with your venue coordinator is paramount to guaranteeing a seamlessly executed event. From the subtlest nuances to the grandest aspirations, here are ten vital things you should communicate to your venue coordinator to ensure your occasion flourishes in the ambiance you’ve always imagined.
1. Guest Count
Supplying an accurate guest count to your venue ensures a seamless event by guaranteeing ample food and drink quantities while preventing unnecessary expenses for absent guests, creating a win-win scenario for both hosts and venue coordinators.
2. Space Requirements
Ensure smooth event logistics by clearly communicating space requirements to the venue, such as staging areas for caterers, space for large decor items, and specific areas for additions like photo booths, while also considering height and accessibility for seamless setup.
3. Layout and Setup Preferences
Provide your venue with your floor plan layout to guide how you’d like to arrange the venue’s furniture. In addition, sharing your layout will help determine the compatibility of outside rentals, such as tables and chairs, ensuring everything fits seamlessly within the space. The venue’s expertise will help optimize the layout, taking into consideration potential obstacles like beams, columns, railings, and paths of travel.
4. Timeline and Schedule
While the event planner/day-of-coordinator takes charge of executing the overall timeline of activities, it remains crucial to communicate this timeline directly to the venue as well. Share the arrival times of vendors, allowing the venue to assign a team member to guide them to the right location and assist if the vendor needs access to the venue’s elevators or lifts. Clearly convey when you’d like specific venue services to be conducted, such as the initiation of drink service or food serving times, ensuring the staff is prepared to meet these expectations seamlessly. Sharing the timeline with the venue is also instrumental in preventing interruptions during pivotal moments, such as speeches or ceremony times during a wedding.
5. Event Vision & Theme
Inquiring about your event vision and theme with the venue is crucial as it allows them to recommend the most suitable space for your needs. With multiple event spaces available, aligning your vision with the appropriate setting ensures a personalized experience tailored to your preferences. By sharing your concept, the venue can provide valuable insights and recommendations, ensuring your event exceeds expectations and leaves a lasting impression.
6. Decor and Aesthetics
While venues typically don’t handle decor setup, it’s still crucial to communicate your aesthetic vision to ensure it complies with any decoration restrictions. This includes limitations on candles per table or space considerations for large decor pieces. By working closely with the venue, you can ensure your vision comes to life safely and seamlessly.
When discussing decor with the venue, clarify if they offer decor services or in-house items. Understanding their offerings allows you to supplement as needed, ensuring seamless integration with the venue’s aesthetic. Additionally, inquire about signage provision to effectively communicate with guests.
7. Food & Beverage Preferences
It’s essential to communicate your food and beverage preferences clearly to the venue when planning your event. If there’s a specific drink that is a must-have for you or your guests, don’t assume the venue carries it. Be sure to clarify exactly what is included in the drink package and inquire if the venue can order the specific drink for your event. Additionally, it’s crucial to communicate any dietary needs and restrictions well in advance to ensure that the venue can accommodate all guests.
8. Special Requirements and Needs
Effective communication of special requests and needs to the venue is pivotal for a seamless event. Here a few examples:
Arranging for guests requiring access to lifts and elevators for mobility assistance.
Coordinating the setup of unique features like a champagne wall or live music performances.
Specifying requirements for particular rental items that only designated vendors can handle (for example, a pipe & drape backdrop!)
If your venue is open to the public (like ours), providing a password for guest access
Dressing up signature drinks are served with unique straws/garnishes/customized napkins.
Sharing these details empowers the venue to make necessary arrangements, ensuring a memorable and successful occasion for all.
9. Contact Information
Make sure the venue has the contact information of your event planner or designated point person. While the planner usually coordinates with rental vendors, providing their details to the venue ensures smooth communication. Also, ensure the venue has the contact information of any rental vendors involved in your event for seamless coordination and troubleshooting if needed.
10. *Weather Contingencies
When renting an outdoor space for your event, it’s imperative to communicate your rain plan with the venue. In the face of unpredictable weather, having a contingency plan ensures that the venue can respond effectively to any inclement conditions. Whether it involves moving the event indoors, securing tents, or implementing alternative arrangements, informing the venue of your rain plan allows them to make necessary preparations and adjustments. By proactively addressing potential weather concerns, you can ensure that your event proceeds smoothly and that both you and the venue are prepared to adapt to changing conditions as needed.
In conclusion, orchestrating a memorable event involves a myriad of details, and effective communication with your venue coordinator is paramount to its success. While event planners focus on realizing your overall vision, venue coordinators specialize in managing the logistics specific to the venue, ensuring seamless alignment between your plans and the venue’s capabilities. Avoiding assumptions and clearly articulating your needs ensures that every aspect, from guest accommodations to decor preferences, is meticulously addressed. By fostering open dialogue and collaboration, you can ensure that your event flourishes in the ambiance you’ve always imagined, leaving a lasting impression on all who attend.
Furthermore, ensuring that the venue is well-informed of all event details and information empowers them to assist and field any vendor questions that may arise. Collaboration is key in orchestrating a successful event, and when all stakeholders are on the same page, it fosters a sense of teamwork and cohesion. By equipping the venue with comprehensive knowledge, they can act as a central point of contact, facilitating seamless communication and problem-solving between vendors and event organizers. This proactive approach minimizes the likelihood of issues arising and ensures that any challenges that do occur can be swiftly addressed with efficiency and professionalism, ultimately contributing to the overall success of the event.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in wedding traditions, with an increasing number of couples opting for a “first look” before the ceremony. This emerging trend adds a contemporary touch to the age-old anticipation of seeing each other for the first time on the wedding day. So, why are couples choosing this intimate moment before the walk down the aisle?
Firstly, a first look provides couples with a private and emotional connection before the whirlwind of the ceremony begins. This private moment allows them to share their excitement, calm any nerves, and relish in the realization that their big day has finally arrived. Many couples find that this intimate encounter allows them to be present in the moment and truly savor the joy of the occasion.
What’s particularly intriguing is the feedback from wedding vendors, who consistently report that the first look actually intensifies the emotions felt during the traditional walk down the aisle. Contrary to the belief that seeing each other beforehand might diminish the impact of that special moment, couples often express heightened emotions as they exchange glances and heartfelt words during the walk down the aisle. The first look give the couple the time to really process their emotions beforehand.
In addition to the emotional benefits, a first look also provides practical advantages. It allows for more flexibility in the wedding timeline, as couples can capture some of their formal photos before the ceremony, leaving more time for celebration with family and friends afterward. In addition, this also allows photographers to really maximize the daylight before the sun sets for the evening festivities.
Ultimately, the growing popularity of the first look demonstrates how couples are redefining traditions to create a wedding day that is uniquely their own. Whether for the emotional connection, practical advantages, or the desire to make their wedding experience more personal, the first look is undeniably becoming a cherished moment in the modern wedding narrative.
At 210 events we LOVE babies! That’s why we get super excited when we get to host baby showers. A few years ago we hosted one of the cutest spring-themed baby showers I’ve ever seen.
The mother-to-be rented out our lovely Saloon Suite located at the top of our building. The space is adorable with wood floors and antique wood cabinets lining the walls. The new kitchenette, couches, lounge chairs, and coffee tables make the space feel comfortable and welcoming. The high ceiling and abundant natural light balance the cozy furniture, giving the space a beautiful bright and airy feeling. All in all, it was the perfect spot for her gathering of ~25 guests.
Now, on to the theme that has lived rent free in my head since that shower. The mother-to-be chose the theme “little sprout”. With all the new grasses and plants sprouting outside, it was the perfect theme for an April shower. Naturally, she went with a green/neutral color palette that paired exceptionally well with the wood and brick of the space. There was an elegant balloon arch, twinkle lights, and a delicious spread of green (and not green) foods. Guests raved about the blueberry walnut chicken salad and adorable chocolate pudding in glass jars with candy succulents on top!
Next came the games. First, guests took turns passing two “presents” right and left based on the words in a cute baby story. One guest ended up with a box of dirt while the other received a baby sock monkey. Next, her friends and family took turns guessing how big her belly was by cutting strings to their guess length. Finally, there was a speed diaper changing round that left everyone laughing (no children were harmed). After a couple hours of greetings, gifts, and games, the mom-to-be sent guests home with a seedling basil plant that she grew herself. Needless to say, the shower was a wild success and still brings a smile to my face every time I think about it.
As we head into 2024 I am beyond excited to see what themes pop up this year. The rise in nature-inspired themes like woodland, boho, and bear themed all tend to have color palettes that work well with our spaces. Bright pops of color also look stunning in our venue so a citrus-themed or “mama to bee” shower would be gorgeous. Truthfully, I have a hard time picturing any shower that wouldn’t look good but maybe that’s a personal flaw 🙂
Welcome to our new blog series, where I’m excited to share insider tips and expert advice straight from my perspective! Planning the perfect event can be a daunting task, but fear not – I’m here to guide you through every step of the process. Whether you’re organizing a corporate gathering, a milestone celebration, or a dreamy wedding, this how-to planning guide is your go-to resource for inspiration, practical tips, and invaluable insights. Join me as we embark on this journey together, turning your event visions into unforgettable experiences. Get ready to unlock the secrets to seamless event planning – let’s dive in!
Theme and Purpose:
The first step in my process is coming up with an overall theme. This event’s theme is going to be Galentine’s Day networking event for working women. With this theme, I would go with pink and red decor.
Once, I develop a theme, I come up with a name for my event. When coming up with a name for an event, you need to consider the theme of the event, the goal of the event, who will be attending, and any activities that will take place during the event.
Since this event is a Galentine’s Day event, I would like Galentine’s to be in the name. The goal of this event is networking, but I do not want to put that directly in the name. Since this event is aimed toward working women, I want to include something in the name that resembles that while still keeping the name short and sweet. A few words I could use would be grind, boss babe, professional, etc. The activities that will take place during this event are networking, eating, drinking, and maybe a game or two. For this reason, I am going to use gather as a word for the name of the event.
With all of these factors in mind, I came up with the name Galentine’s Grind & Gather. With a theme and a name, I can move on to planning the vision which includes decorations, stationary, signature drinks, food options, venue, and programming.
Even though Galentine’s Day officially falls on a Tuesday this year, I would plan on having this event on the day after Valentine’s on a Thursday night. This event will be a mid-week break from work and avoids the Valentine’s Day rush on Wednesday. Having the event on Thursday also avoids disrupting any weekend plans!
As far as which venue space I would choose for this event, I would go with Rabbit Hole! The caverns and vaults make the space feel intimate. This venue space is also the most beautiful, and an easy way to impress my guests and leave a lasting impression. The built-in booths and tables in the venue also save me from having to rent any additional furniture, and perfectly fit for the actitivities I have planned.
Designing the Vision:
Since this event is in Rabbit Hole, I would keep the decorations simple and let the venue speak for itself. I would go with some simple bud vases with red and pink flowers. These bud vases will also double as favors, and I’d have each of my guests take one home!
For more inspiration, we have put together a Pinterest board full of decoration and stationary inspiration. When it comes to stationary, I often try to match it to my decorations. For example, if I decorate with flowers. I would make sure my stationary includes these aspects. Stationary typically includes invitations, menus, name cards, etc.
Rabbit Hole can be difficult to find, so I would have a large signage right in front of the doors so my guests know they’re in the right place. I would also feature a picture frame of the night’s programming by the host stand to inform my guests.
For invitations, you can do this digitally through a company like Paperless Post or you can print them. It is really up to you and your preference. If I have all my guest’s email addresses, I would go with Paperless Post for this type of event.
Food and Drink:
Once we have decorations and stationary planned, I typically start developing a menu. The menu would depend on the venue’s catering options or an outside caterer’s options. Since this is an evening networking event, I am going to showcase our Bar Food Catering menu. I am going to choose the Spinach Artichoke Dip, Bourbon Meatballs, and Vegetable Crudités with Hummus, which I would serve in the Long Vault in Rabbit Hole. For a sweet option, I would create a picture-perfect dessert spread in Vault C. For my spread, I would order from Cannelle (located right up the street from our location!) and serve them on black slates.
When it comes to menu planning, I would also choose a suitable drink package and maybe a signature drink. For this event, I would go with 2 premium drink tickets per guest. For the signature drinks, I would serve a “Love Potion” Cocktail, and a “Cupid’s Arrow” Mocktail. For the Love Potion Cocktail, I asked our bartenders to create a drink based on the names, and they came up with a delicious bright red drink featuring Vodka, Cointreau, Grapefruit Juice, Orange Juice, Cranberry Juice, Grenadine, served with a strawberry and mint garnish. For a mocktail, I would go simple with a sparkling pink lemonade served with edible glitter in a champagne glass.
Planning the Programming:
After I have worked hard to develop the vision for my event, I can move on to the program planning. The programming would include any activities, presentations, a timeline, etc.
I always start with the timeline so that I can plan the activities and presentations around other aspects.
5:45pm – Food is out
6pm – Event Starts
6:00 – 6:30pm– Guests arrive and mingle amongst themselves
7pm – Greet guests, introduce myself, give them the timeline for the evening
7:30pm – Start speed networking activity in Date Room. Guests split off into groups of 2 and talk for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes guests will rotate.
8:30pm – Speed networking ends. The next activity is wine tasting, guests will split off into groups of 4 and sit together in our built-in booths. Our bartenders will begin pouring the first wine sample. Groups will work together to come up with the tasting notes for each wine. They will try 4 different wines.
9:30pm – Wine Tasting ends.
10pm – Event Ends. Closing Remarks. Swag Bags are handed out. For my swag bags, I’d fill them with heart shaped chocolates, a soap bar from a local company, and some wine sampler bottles (ideally the same wines as the wines that were tried during the tasting!)
10:00pm-10:30pm – Cleanup! Since my decorations doubled as favors, there’s not much left for me to cleanup other than grabbing any leftover swag bags, my signage, and packing up the rest of the desserts. The bar staff will bus any glassware that’s left, while the venue’s Events Team cleans up their in-house catering.
What’s Next?
After the planning process, I send out my invites. Since I used Paperless Post, I also use this great tool to collect RSVPs as well as a way to mass send out any reminders or updates. I’ll also place an order for any printed signage I need as well as purchasing my favors and decor. Stay tuned for my next blog post on how I would setup and run this event!
As we embark on this journey of event planning together, I invite you to unleash your creativity, embrace the process, and transform your event visions into unforgettable realities. With the right guidance and inspiration, anything is possible. So let’s raise a glass to seamless event planning and the joy of bringing people together. Cheers to the journey ahead!
Creating a stylish and memorable event doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With some savvy strategies and a sprinkle of creativity, you can transform your space into a visually stunning haven without breaking the bank. Here are some unconventional ideas that will elevate your event space while keeping your budget intact.
The Art of Displays:
Transform your event space with the art of displays. Utilize unconventional items like wooden crates, vintage suitcases, or repurposed ladders to showcase various elements of your décor. The art of displays is a cost-effective way to turn ordinary items into extraordinary focal points, infusing your event with character and charm.
Thrifted and Mismatched Treasures:
Embrace the charm of mismatched décor by exploring thrift stores and second-hand shops. You’ll be amazed at the unique pieces you can find—from vintage vases to eclectic frames. Mix and match these treasures for a curated and personalized look that tells a story.
Fruit and Floral Alternatives:
Swap out pricey floral arrangements with budget-friendly alternatives. Combine inexpensive fruits like lemons or oranges with affordable flowers for eye-catching centerpieces that bring freshness and color to the celebration. DIY your own florals by shopping at places like Trader Joe’s for a great deal (alternatively, split your floral costs with someone who’s having their event the next day!).
Wholesale Buys from Costco and Sam’s Club:
When it comes to bulk buying, Costco and Sam’s Club are your best friends. Purchase items like candles, napkins, and tableware in bulk to maximize savings. These warehouse stores offer quality products at a fraction of the cost, allowing you to stretch your budget without compromising on style.
Dollar Store Magic: Balloons Galore:
Don’t underestimate the dollar store when it comes to event décor. Balloons, in particular, can be a budget-friendly game-changer. Create whimsical balloon arches or clusters to add a festive atmosphere. With a variety of colors and shapes available, you can achieve a high-impact look without breaking the bank. Plus,they’ll blow up your balloons for you, saving you the hassle of having to buy or rent a pump.
Timing is everything, especially when it comes to seasonal sales. After-Christmas sales are a goldmine for snagging string lights at unbeatable prices. Stock up on these versatile decorations that can add a magical glow to your event. String lights can be draped, hung, or woven for a romantic and budget-savvy ambiance.
DIY Signage with Online Resources:
Elevate your event with personalized signage on a budget using online tools like Canva. Create eye-catching signs for directions, menus, or messages with customizable templates. Opt for cost-effective printing solutions, whether in-house or through local print shops, to bring your designs to life. This DIY approach ensures a unique and cohesive visual identity for your event without breaking the bank.
Candlelit Ambiance:
Enhance the mood with candlelight, a budget-friendly alternative to florals. Candles are an easy way to make a space look elegant. Collect inexpensive candles or tea lights and arrange them strategically for a warm and intimate atmosphere. Be sure to check with the venue for their open flame policy.
Rent, Don’t Buy:
Explore the world of event rentals and vendors for items you need. Instead of purchasing decorations or equipment outright, consider renting them for the duration of your celebration. This not only saves money but also reduces clutter after the event.
Venue’s Architectural Beauty: Skip the Decor
The best way to save on your decor budget is to not have any! Opt for spaces (*such as ours!) that boast unique features and captivating architectural design elements, reducing the reliance on additional decorations.
*Circ’s Main Bar boasts in-house architectural marvels of natural brick, and exposed wood beams. Our Lounge and Roof Deck stuns with wall of windows that bathe the space in natural light, alongside a terrace garden. Explore the charm of brick caverns down in Rabbit Hole at Root adorned with plush greenery, adding a touch of enchantment to your event setting.
Decorating on a budget is a delightful creative challenge that allows you to showcase your personal style without the hefty price tag. From artful displays to DIY signage and candlelit ambiances, these tips will help you create a visually stunning celebration that proves you don’t need to break the bank to throw a memorable party. Happy decorating!
210 Events | Ann Arbor | Event Venues & Weddings 