An event vs. a party- What's the difference?

Many people, particularly those outside the Atlanta event design industry, confuse parties and events, and assume that these two things are they same. However, they are not - although, just to add to the confusion, a really good party can definitely be an event!

Essentially, an event is a planned occasion that is, all at once, momentous, memorable and meaningful. It is much more than a mere celebration, or a nicely-decorated party or meeting. That is why, within the industry, events are increasingly viewed in terms of being experiences, rather than simply parties, celebrations or gatherings.

So what should be clients expect from the new event experience? Well, there are the basics, which are excellent design and esthetics, great music and a well organized process that moves seamlessly from one element to another. Like many industries, however, the events sector is increasingly influenced by technology and, in particular, by the growing trend for immersion.

Immersion is what happens when an event experience is so well designed, and so effectively realized, that the attendees genuinely feel that they have been transported to another place or another situation. Cutting edge capabilities in lighting, music and design technology now allow talented event organizers, those who are leading the industry, to create sometimes staggeringly effective results.

The ability to create truly immersive experiences is often what separates great event design companies from the good 'do-it-yourself' planners, who may have clever ideas but frequently lack the expertise and contacts to produce them to a high standard. The increasing quality of local events - such as Atlanta bar/bat mitzvahs, weddings and parties - has opened consumers' eyes to the possibilities and, as a result, Atlanta people are expecting more from the events they attend. That is why, in a nutshell, anybody who is planning a truly memorable event needs now to think in terms of effectively produced experiences, rather than parties or gatherings.