To Theme, or Not to Theme?

Should your event have a theme?  

Sometimes themes help with certain kinds of events and make the planning easier.  It certainly helps with decorations and color schemes to have some sort of thematic approach to your event.  Here are some questions to help you develop a theme:

• What time of year if the event being held?
• Is your event close enough to a holiday to use that as a theme?
• Is the location where you are having the event conducive to a particular theme?
• What is the purpose of your event?
• What previous themes have been used for your previous events?

If you are having trouble coming up with something, host a brainstorming event with some of the key players in the event.  Clearly define the objectives.  Have the mindset that "no idea is a bad idea" and start to talk about a wide variety of possibilities.  Make a record of what the suggestions are - keep them for future events as you will likely have more ideas than you can use at one event.  Narrow down the best ideas and make a plan to implement them.  If you need to present the ideas, present the three best ones to the board or decision makers in the company.

Once you have chosen a theme, make a conference logo to support the theme.  Generate some promotional materials using the theme.  Don't forget to incorporate it into the signage, nametags, table tents, decor, centerpieces, meals, music, contests and awards.  Make the most of your choice and best of all have fun creating your event.