You're running a 1920s-style event. The set design is spot on, and so is the music. The guests are happy. Then they walk up to the photo booth, and it prints photos in a frame with Hawaiian flowers. The atmosphere breaks in an instant. All the work put into the theme loses its value because of one badly chosen element.
An event manager is a bit like a film director here. They build a coherent world, and the attractions aren't the background in it. They play the lead roles. If they're acting in a different film, the audience notices straight away.
What happens when an attraction doesn't fit the theme
Inconsistency isn't just a matter of aesthetics. It has concrete consequences.
- Credibility drops. An attraction bolted on for the sake of it tells guests: "they ran out of ideas or budget". Your professionalism and your client's image take the hit.
- The budget goes in the wrong direction. Money spent on an attraction that doesn't strengthen the theme doesn't work towards the main goal. And the goal is a world your guests should step into.
- Guests drop out of the atmosphere. An element that doesn't fit pulls them out of the story you've been building. Instead of strengthening the whole, it weakens it.
Three steps to a consistent themed event
Don't treat attractions as separate items on the programme. Build them into the concept from the start. A simple three-step framework helps.
Step 1: define what the theme is really about
Before you start looking for attractions, write down the emotion behind the theme. A costume isn't enough.
- The 1920s. Not just feathers. Mystery, Prohibition and ostentatious luxury.
- Space. Not just stars. Exploring the unknown, curiosity and technology.
- Casino. Not just cards. Risk, adrenaline and elegance.
Step 2: weave the attraction into the story
The attraction should be part of the story, not stand in the corner. Change its name and context.
- The photo booth becomes a secret entrance to a speakeasy.
- The VR station turns into a Mars mission simulator.
- The game show becomes a great Star Wars knowledge test.
Step 3: insist on personalisation
This is where you see who knows their stuff. A good supplier should offer three things.
- Full branding. Screens, prints and the device casing all in the event's theme.
- Theme-appropriate props. No random wigs. For the 1920s you need cigarette holders and feathered headbands.
- Consistent sound and surroundings. The playlist at the photo booth matches the era. The sounds in the quiz feel like they're from the same world.
From theme to execution
Consistency goes beyond the venue
The theme doesn't start on the day of the event and doesn't end at the exit. Carry it through the invitation and your pre-event communications. Think about the staff's outfits. Even the thank-you email can close the story in the same style.
You have the vision – the attractions should strengthen it
A themed event is a story, and a good story sticks to one convention. Your role is the vision. Ours is attractions that fit into it. When you talk to a supplier, don't just ask "what have you got?". Ask "how will you adapt it to my theme?".
Looking for attractions that play their part in your theme?
Describe the theme of your event and the atmosphere you want to create. Get in touch and we'll show you how our attractions can be personalised to fit your concept.
