Melani Kodikian, CERP, president of A to Z Party Rental, explains that being modern is all about trends. She says the best method to mod- ernizing an event is to tap into what is currently trending. Stay on top of things like the color of the year and the latest fashion trends, and then utilize décor and equipment that is in sync with those trends.


“Mix and match textures,” she adds. “Linen can have a huge impact on the overall look and feel of an event. The beauty of tenting is the ability to create a space, of any style, out of nothing. Your décor and designs aren’t limited to the space you’re in. You can transform your environment into anything your imagination cre- ates, including multiple spaces in one tent. Draping can be a valuable tool in creating those spaces. With the correct layout and draping, you can have a game room, garden envi- ronment, and a formal banquet space - all under a single tent!"


She explains that an advantage of renting for a meeting or event is that it provides the flexibility to create when without needing to have deep pockets or large storage spaces, and it minimizes waste. “If you’re going to use an item for multiple events it may be worth purchasing it, depend- ing on the cost. Otherwise, renting is the best method."


Kodikian adds that, while many may believe that modernizing a meeting only requires technology, there are several other factors to consider. “What people forget to address is the environment of the meeting. What is the layout? What is the seat- ing? Remove the stuffiness of a con- ference table and rolling chairs, replace them with oversized cush- ioned chairs and sofas. Spread out in a room. Turn off the cell phones, close the laptops and focus on the task at hand."


Another expert when it comes to using décor to modernize a meeting or event space, Michelle Harris is the business development manager for Choice Party Linens. She says spandex is great for a modern, sleek look and works well for both casual and high-end events. She says that velvet also has been very popular


Example of velvet table coverings by Choice Party Linens


among those seeking a modern look and feel, as it adds a luxurious ele- ment with a simple, modern vibe.


"Set the atmosphere of the event from when your guests walk in the door to the moment they leave,” ad- vises Harris. “Details matter and people notice and are expecting the ‘wow’ factor more than ever."


"Linens are such an important detail and can greatly change the overall atmosphere of any event,” she con- tinues. “There is no other surface in any event space that is as easily changed with such little effort, time and expense and with such dramatic and impressive results."


Harris says that using a variety of textures and colors to highlight dif- ferent areas or focal points of an event really brings the room to- gether and adds a modern touch. “Mix it up and enjoy the results."


She further notes that Choice Party Linens offers a number of different


fabric options that can bring a mod- ern look and feel to an event, each with its own unique advantages.


"Panama is a nicer option for clients looking for a cotton feel, matte look and something that’s heavier than polyester,” notes Harris. “Dupioni of- fers an inexpensive upgrade. but doesn’t look inexpensive. It also of- fers the option of being reversible, and we carry it in 37 colors and mul- tiple sizes, so the possibilities are wide open. Velvet is effortlessly ele- gant, drapes beautifully and is avail- able in a gorgeous range of colors."


Modern Meeting Space


Sometimes adding a modern touch to a meeting or event can be accom- plished by booking at a new and modern venue that offers the very latest in meeting technology as well as eye-catching décor.


Tifani Jones, corporate director of sales for Kalahari Resorts and Con- ventions in the Pocono Mountains,


Mid-Atlantic­EvEnts Magazine 39


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52  |  Page 53  |  Page 54  |  Page 55  |  Page 56  |  Page 57  |  Page 58  |  Page 59  |  Page 60  |  Page 61  |  Page 62  |  Page 63  |  Page 64  |  Page 65  |  Page 66  |  Page 67  |  Page 68  |  Page 69  |  Page 70  |  Page 71  |  Page 72  |  Page 73  |  Page 74  |  Page 75  |  Page 76