Most, if not all, of us use social media on a daily basis. But how many of us are fully utilizing itto promote ourselves or, more importantly, our businesses? As an event design company, we use various platforms to connect with different audiences and convey different messages. This blog, for one, focuses more on the media aspect rather than social. Although commenting and sharing is strongly encouraged (seriously, always feel free to let us know you’re here and tell us what you might like to read about next!) - the potential for increased engagement rises on other formats.
 
Facebook and Instagram are the ‘tried and true’ method of socializing with others on the Internet, but live and more transient social media platforms seem to be “what’s next.” Snapchat led the way in providing innovative, fun filters while allowing users to create, send and post of-the-moment videos and pictures that disappear after twenty-four hours. Instagram took notice of this success by launching its own Story feature. And even though it may seem that you would have to choose between the two, decide which post goes where, or take time you don’t have to repeat activities to record twice, that’s not the case. As tech blog Gizmodo recently noted, it’s pretty simple to use the same content in both mediums, if that’s your goal.

Furthering the trend of live streaming, Periscope and Facebook Live allows people to tune in as the action is happening. These of-the- moment apps can be especially captivating for those interested in event planning, or just attending. Going live the day of an event to show how these experiences are set up, or broken down, as well as filming while an event is in action, allows people to get a real sense of the work, as well as the payoff, that putting on an event takes.
Because many of the features on these sites are so similar to ones offered by others, duplicate content is inevitable, and also okay, but only to an extent. Followers and users of one platform or app can differ from those on another; so taking stake of who is where can help you focus your content to those users. Keeping up to date on rising trends as well as each site’s audience can ensure that you’re reaching your desired target demographic and also providing them with useful, and entertaining, information. Knowing which sites and apps serve your industry best is key to utilizing social media to meet your marketing and outreach objectives.

​It’s also important to keep your connections connected. Linking a business Facebook to its blog and Snapchat as well as everywhere in between helps make sure your brand maintains its cohesiveness and conveys integrated messages that best serve both your clients, as well as yourself. The interaction among sites benefits everyone, since the whole idea behind social media, is well, to be social. So let’s get connected! Track Seven Events is currently socializing on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

In this segment, the first of an ongoing series - we will look at a trending theme that people want to use for their event, but also fear losing originality. Urban industrial themes are rising in popularity as abandoned warehouses, lofts, and scenic rooftops gain traction as sought-after venues, especially in the Atlanta area. The urban industrial look can be utilized for weddings, corporate events, as well as cocktail hours or engagement parties. Because of their characterization, which incorporates bold colors, distressed elements, as well as details on the harder end of the spectrum, an urban industrial theme is a perfect non-gender specific way to attract all types of guests, and event-throwers.

When considering this theme, a planner may shy away thinking it feels too ‘cold’ for an upbeat party, or that steel and wood can only look so different. However, the ‘urban chic’ motif as it is sometimes referred to can turn basically any space into a casual and relaxed environment. Making it your own is also easily achievable. Customizable elements can be incorporated into any space, such as graffiti art on faux brick walls, where depending on the mood of the event, guests can also participate in as an activity. Bringing the outdoors inside may also be an option to explore, with fake grass and a picnic area to transform a portion of the venue into a beer garden for wine or local craft beer tastings. Custom made, vintage-inspired street signs can be utilized to direct guests to certain areas, or just provide décor.

An urban industrial theme also does not have to look ‘harsh.’ Bold rich colors, such as a purple or blue, against a base of grey, can warm the tone of the theme. Even flowers can be integrated, such as wild flowers to draw on the more rustic elements, or trending towards the other spectrum– roses to create an elegant minimalistic, more modern, feel. There are also endless options for lighting, from bare bulbs strung high, to massive stage lights. Depending on what works best in
the venue, different combinations of all these components can be used to create the event you envision. As event planners, we share our clients’ goals of creating the best, and unique, experiences for them and their guests. If you have questions, or ideas regarding this, or any other theme you’d like featured on the blog, don’t hesitate to comment below. And if you’d like to learn more about incorporating this theme into your next event, contact us today to discuss the endless possibilities.

Planning an event in the middle of summer might be a daunting thought. Especially with this

year’s record heat across the nation. Atlanta has not been immune to this sometimes-

uncomfortable weather pattern. But with just a couple of months left to actually enjoy the

warmer weather, it’s time to discover how make it work for you and your guests. Georgia has

some of the greatest mountain ranges, parks, as well as other outdoor space and venues that are

perfect for an outdoor gathering. Whether you’re planning on hosting a corporate event, charity

gala, or birthday party, you can incorporate certain measures, big and small, that are designed not

to beat the heat, but to embrace it.

• Tents can be used for their function and looks

A tent is the common solution for providing shade, or even air conditioning, while also still

technically hosting an outdoor event. Tents can be customized dependent on your event’s theme,

or the look you desire. A child-heavy or just whimsical adult party can incorporate a circus tent

to provide decoration as well as the shelter needed. For a more elegant

nighttime gala under the stars, a transparent tent can be used to create atmosphere. Remember to

make sure a venue or site allows for and has the proper permits as well as landscaping to

accommodate any tent you want or need.

• Refreshments both creative and hydrating

Providing drinks is a no-brainer for any event, regardless of the season. In the summer, hydration

is also a concern to make sure guests don’t leave dehydrated. Depending on the size of the event

(and the venue), one or two water stations strategically placed around the space can help keep

lines at bars shorter and guests more comfortable. Also, creating unique refreshments can be a

fun way to keep temperatures down and spirits up. For instance, a variety of infused ices, such as

lemonade cubes to accompany iced tea beverages, is a simple way to impress a crowd.

• Props can be cool

Different, useful, props can always liven up an event, while also proving useful. Giving guests

customized sunglasses or bandanas to wipe their brows for a daytime event, is a cost-effective

solution for a hotter-than- average day. Not all events are supposed to feel like a bar mitzvah, but

sometimes these little touches are appropriate and appreciated, as long as the prop is in line with

the atmosphere you’re trying to create. The key is chic, not cheese. A nice parasol cools guests

down, while also keeping an event fired up. Living in the south has its perks; sometimes

embracing the culture works, look at the successful theme parties the crew on Southern Charm

enjoys. You can also recreate that charm, without the drama.

• Indoor or Outdoor? You don’t have to choose.

An advantage to having so many venues to choose from in the area, either within metro Atlanta,

Buckhead, or further in northern Georgia, is that you don’t have to settle for a primarily outside

or indoor setting. Spaces, such as the Trolly Barn, that allow you to enjoy outdoor patios and

gardens, but also allow guests to escape inside if they wish, or if weather demands, are perfect

for a summer gathering. Which brings us to the next, critical consideration in outdoor event

planning.

• Flexibility is a friend

Always have an alternate plan - as we all know, summer weather is unpredictable. Event

planners need to be flexible and account for the possibility of rain or another natural occurrences

common in summer months. Cancellations are not ideal, or always necessary, especially if you

strategize ahead for alternative arrangements in case of weather concerns.

• Information is power

On any invites or event website pages, give guests as much information as possible to help them

make critical decisions for themselves. This information should include the fact that the event is

being held outside, whether or not it will occur ‘rain or shine,’ as well as the proper attire

requested. Letting guests know if casual attire is acceptable for a summer event, especially held

during the daytime, can ensure they dress comfortably. Comfort is key for the success of an

outdoor summer event.

• Helping those helping you

The heat affects event staff too. Sometimes even more so, as they need to carry and set up heavy

equipment, as well as continue to make sure everything is running smoothly during the event.

The simple inquiry into whether or not set up, or breakdown, may be done in the less-hot hours

of early morning or the night before an event can make a difference for staff, and ensure they

remain focused on your event’s needs.

Speaking with an experienced Atlanta-based event planning professional about your goals and

expectations helps in crafting your perfect event. Contact us today to

brainstorm ideas for your next celebration.

No one in the events industry wants to be classified as a micromanager, but it’s possible to be one
without even realizing it. Did you know that being a micromanager could actually hurt your team and
negatively affect the outcome of your event work?

When you work in the event planning and design business, attention to detail is important, and that’s
precisely why so many of us fall victim to becoming micromanagers. If you are a solo act, then you don’t
have this problem because you’re doing it all. If you work with a team, however, management is a little
more complicated.

First of all, what is a micromanager? Though your actions may be rooted in good intentions,
micromanagement is actually pretty detrimental. You are overly critical of your team and let them know it.

You can tell that you might be a micromanager if you exhibit the following traits:

 You have trouble delegating tasks

 You constantly check in with your team to see how they are progressing

 You ask for unnecessary reporting

 You have communication troubles and don’t conduct effective meetings

If you are a micromanager, the detriment to your staff can be severe, and the effects might include:

 A lack of motivation

 Lowered team morale

 Poor performance

 An imbalance of power

The good news is, if you can identify yourself as a micromanager, you can change! The first step is to
recognize what you are doing and to remember that no one is perfect – and no situation is perfect, either.
There are always going to be different levels of management appropriate for different situations, but as
long as you keep the lines of communication open with your team, you can build trust and begin to work
more effectively. You’ll be surprised how the creative process thrives when the staff is comfortable and
happy!