By Darren Gilbert

However, the fact is not all events are memorable. In amongst the few unforgettable ones are a many mediocre ones. Fortunately, though, there is something that you can do about that.

Understand your target market

“The creative secret to hosting a magnificent event, one which sets itself apart from the rest, is to analyse the target audience in order to ascertain your USPs (unique ‘selling’ points) – what sets this event aside from all the others of its nature?” says Red Carpet Concepts’ MD, Jade Allen.

One-eyed Jack’s Social Media and PR manager, Darryn Lee, agrees. He says, “There would need to be focus on creating an event that falls in line with the event theme and campaign objectives in order to gather the most publicity.”

Once you know what elements will appeal to your audience, you need to go about setting up an experience that they will never forget.

Offer them a unique experience

If you want to attract people, you need to offer them something that they can’t get anywhere else. It’s the philosophy of any successful business. The same can be said for a PR agency organising an event. You need to offer an experience that will have people coming back for more.

“It’s crucial that you offer a unique, insightful experience without drawing out the event,” says Marisa Logan, co-founder and director of Butterknife PR. “Media are regularly invited to events and are often spoilt for choice, so in order to get them to attend, you need to ensure the order of events and offering is worth their while.”

That doesn’t mean it has to be costly. As Logan points out, so long as it’s unique and personal, you’re on the right track. “If the media feel that you have wasted their time, you may never be able to get them to attend another event of yours.”

Plan everything down to smallest detail

Regardless of how unique your event is, if you haven’t planned it well enough, you have a problem. That may sound obvious. However, that doesn’t mean that someone won’t forget to do it. And I’m not talking about ‘regular’ planning. 

A successful event means planning everything down to the last little detail. That includes preparing for any questions that someone may ask. After all, as Allen points out, planning and preparation takes up 75% of ensuring that your event is a success. You want to be in control.

“If you’ve carefully thought out and coordinated every single element comprising you’re event, and left nothing to the last minute, then you’re in the sure win for successful outcomes,” adds Allen.

Tori Metzger, content strategist at The Ohio State Bar Association, writes, “Make lists. Making a task list incentivises you to check off the tasks while keeping track of what you still need to complete.”

What are your thoughts? What other elements need to be in place to create a memorable event? Tell us below.