Friday, April 07, 2006 

A Warm Greeting

Did I tell you that I put together an event for a local not for profit? There were many issues to handle...many generations (really young kids, older adults having problems with stairs and everything in between), watch the budget but make it elegant, celebrate big without being gaudy, watch the venue closely because they were doing us a favor.

This is what I did. I provided kid entertainment on a lower level so they could be amused and be loud without annoying the adults, I hired the best caterer but made the menu simple but elegant, I had a large floral arrangement in the middle of the room that wowed everyone but wasn't over the top, I had a band that played tunes the adults knew but they weren't too loud so people couldn't talk.

All of this was wonderful but do you know what I think really made a difference? I had greeters at every door and at every level (there were 2 levels). The first greeters were lovely women who represented 2 generations so any guest walking in felt comfortable. Once everyone made it up the stairs, there was another set of greeters welcoming and guiding people (these greeters also kept the kids from going downstairs with food or juice which was prohibited because of a nice carpet).

The key to any event is that you the guest feel welcomed immediately. It sets the tone for the rest of the event and it starts with a warm smile and a simple hello!

For more tips or help on your next party, call White Linen Events, 203.254.4490 or email info@whitelinen-events.com. Go to the website too: www.whitelinen-events.com