Ultimate Events Senior Sales Representative, Tim Smith, has more than 20 years experience in the special event industry. Ultimate Events provides a one-stop shop for all party rental and event needs.
It’s a Real Picnic — Trends for Corporate Picnic Events
It’s that time of year to gather together and celebrate summer. Fun corporate picnics have made a comeback and while you may have your grills set up, the lemonade poured and the potato salad unpacked, have you thought about linens, seating, tents and more? Take a look at what’s trending right now while you plan your big event:
Linen trends: Burlap is HOT! Updates in textile technology have allowed us to offer synthetic burlap that is soft to the touch and machine washable! This is part of the trend we’ve seen toward the use of natural materials which creates a rustic and elegant feel for events. Checks and gingham linens are also a very fun, classic look and continue to be popular for corporate picnics.
Furniture trends: Natural wood/varnished tables and folding chairs, as well as bamboo folding chairs are very popular. Natural materials such as bamboo and birch are particularly popular. Picnic tables are also in style as an alternative to traditional seating for picnics.
Interactive activities: With a greater emphasis on wellness, fun picnic activities are now focusing on health and education. Say goodbye to the traditional fish pond tent. Folks are enjoying athletic/challenge tents, art/activity tents, jewelry making tents, book reading tents, science tents, as well as many different inflatable interactive/physical games. And for traditionalists, classic yard games are still popular including bocce ball, croquet, volley ball and badminton.
On-site picnic: Keeping the picnic on site will often reduce costs or allow budgets to be spent elsewhere. It also eliminates the need for transporting employees to the venue site. For a big on-site gathering, large tent installations are common place. Tent sizes that accommodate 100-2,000 guests are available and can be installed right on the property.
Plating options: More corporations are stressing healthy eating and portion control, so that means more planners are choosing a smaller 9" luncheon size plate. Disposable plates are also in style with larger sections for fruits/veggies and smaller sections for starches.
Recyclable materials: This is one trend that never goes out of fashion. It’s a prerequisite for any professional event. If you don't offer it, people will notice and complain.
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