5 Ways to Make Your Event Feel Immersive

Whether you are getting married or just hosting an intimate dinner party, you want your event to feel immersive. You don’t want your guests fixating on their surroundings thinking about everything you did or didn’t pay for. Your event atmosphere should be able to transport your guests, ironically, into the present moment. 

In this post we are going to identify 5 ways to make your event feel immersive even without a big budget.

1. It should feel effortless.

To make an event feel effortless it generally takes forethought and a bit more work behind the scenes, but that is how it is with most things of beauty. When guests see the “mechanics” of an event it takes them away from experiencing the moment and gets them thinking about all the work that is being done to host them.  You want your guests to feel cared for of course, but you don’t want them to feel like an inconvenience or contemplating your budget. 

Your guests will pick up on it if you are feeling stressed out, so making your event feel effortless starts with you taking a deep breath. Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed by trying to do too much or by letting everything wait till the last minute to get finished. Ask for the help you need and have everything you want planned and prepared before the event begins. Also, if it feels like there is too much to do… do less! Ultimately this will do more for making your event feel effortless and enjoyable.

2. Decor should fit the space.

You do not need to have a huge venue or a seven-figure budget to make an event feel immersive, but whatever space you are using should feel cohesive and clean. 

If you book a big beautiful venue but do not have the budget to fill it with the accompanying decor, consider going with simplicity - let the venue speak for itself. I see a lot of wedding decor that aims for quantity over quality. If there are just too many tables for your budget to do a quality center piece on each, it generally looks classier to go without. Instead, maybe invest that money you would save into higher quality place settings or linens. This also reduces a ton of waste that is made from weddings yearly!

For smaller events at home the same rule applies. Unless you will be completely transforming your space then go with simplicity. Beautiful lighting and a nice aroma can be way more immersive than fully themed decor with matching napkins and cups from your local party store. Light candles, dim the overheads, and of course add flowers if you can! 

Cleanliness is a huge part of the “decor”. If you are in your home remove all clutter and unsightly practical life objects like pet supplies and brooms. Put away unneeded pieces in your house to reduce distractions. The whole key to making your event feel immersive is to create an atmosphere where your guests can be fully present, so removing objects from sight that take your guests out of the moment is the goal. It is better for a space to be clean and neat then for it to be cluttered and messy with decor thrown on top.

3. Have the Event “Started” Before the First Guest Arrives.

No one likes to be the first one to an event. It generally involves a lot of awkward waiting around with no host in sight. Instead, make it feel as comfortable and inviting as possible right from your start time. Have music playing and be done with all your busy work so you can be present. Get something in your guest’s hand right away like a drink or an activity to make them feel included. Pro tip- I try to always finish all my prep at least 15 minutes before the event is supposed to start. It will allow you a moment (possibly for a drink), but more importantly by the time your guests arrive you are calm and everyone has the sense that the party has begun. 

4. Encourage Mingling.

People are generally most comfortable talking amongst whoever they came with to an event, especially if the only other couple they know is the bride and groom. Bringing people together in a natural or even artificial way such as a game can add to the feeling of inclusion and the merriment of your event. One of the most effective ways to bring people together is by introducing the guests to each other, relieving them of the tension to do so themselves. Sometimes guests need to be reminded they are there by your request for the very intention of getting to know one another. 

However, at a big event especially if it is your wedding, you will not have time to make introductions between guests. So, if you care about this detail it should be planned ahead. If you will be making a seating chart try to put couples who do not know each other (but should) at the same table. If the event will be open seating choose a seating style that allows for community instead of isolation. A great example of this is long family-style table setting where lots of guests will sit next to each other. Even if guests sit with those they arrived with, they will still be surrounded by some new faces to engage.

At my wedding during the reception, one of my closest friends took it upon herself to start the “champagne train” and went around asking if she could refill glasses. Now that might not be your speed, but I remember looking over and seeing a trail of laughter and conversation following her as she went around the dance floor. I had definitely not planned for that, but I was thankful that she made an effort to get people out of their shells. It might be worth a thought to assign one of your most outgoing friends the task of spreading cheer in a way that feels fitting for your vibe. This will create many unique and cherished memories.

5. Relax.

Whatever event you are throwing, once it begins, take a big breath and just enjoy your time. Nothing will make your guest feel at peace like seeing their host enjoying themselves. You set the tone of your event by your demeanor. You have worked so hard for this moment, you have earned the right to enjoy it. Take in the atmosphere you created for your friends and family and the gratitude you’ll feel for this time with them. Remember, whatever happens now is what is going to happen. Giggle when something unplanned happens, and be kind to yourself.