The events industry has seen a lot of change in the past couple of years due to the pandemic. We’re weary of it. We’re ready to dive head first into PARTIES! These past long and isolated months have taught us to be prepared for anything. We’ve been tracking and implementing the changes in trends, and have found some that we would like to keep around coming into 2022.
1. Individual Food Portions
Yes, I’ll have that shrimp cocktail and that tiny pie all for myself! Individual grab-and-go food portions have become more popular with caterers in an effort to limit contact between guests at events. This has been reinvented for weddings, and every other iteration of celebrations, and is predicted to stay with us through 2022 and beyond — it keeps guests mingling and makes service a breeze! As we’re slowly coming back from quarantine we will see more accommodations like additional staffing for guests, curated buffets and creative presentations.
2. Hybrid Elements
Yep! Hybrids are still a thing! As COVID is still prevalent and unpredictable, people are becoming more and more comfortable with including virtual elements in their live events, and vice versa. We expect to see a rise in technological advancements that will make hybrid events more accessible through on-demand streaming, as well as more convenient. This progress of opportunities of hybrid events will tick all the boxes for event planners and marketers including higher engagement and eyeballs, and also more intimate and enjoyable experiences!
3. Humor & Bright Colors
Life is Art! Live Yours in COLOR. Having to quarantine and cancel important events may not be the most fun thing in the world, but some good has come out of all of this. This has led to more time to perfect your event. Make sure it’s unforgettable by bringing all the good energy with bright colors and humor. We are seeing a trend in colorful florals and lounges across all types of events, as well as playful touches. This vibrancy is not only felt at the event, but the photos will be magnificent!
4. Retro Style
Disco Balls! Neon! Curves! Color! A very big trend we’ve seen in events recently has been retro decor at events, and all the nostalgia and bold colors that comes with. This is likely due to the familiarity and comfort that we feel from retro components while so much change is happening around us. I mean who doesn’t love the 70s, 80s & 90’s vibes?
5. An Emphasis on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Strength Lies in Differences; Not in Similarities! We know that representation is an important value in events in 2022. We have seen it and believe it’s vital. Let’s make sure event teams are trained in this area, and we all reflect these values in EVERY aspect of EVERY event – from pre-event brainstorming to post-event feedback. Include underrepresented groups in planning and taking the stage in order to be sure we are encouraging a community that values all perspectives. As event producers, it is always our job to make sure all feel welcome, and that all voices are heard.
6. Outdoor Events
“Live in the Sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air.” Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Good news… outdoor events not only lower the risk of the spread of COVID, but also serve as a great reminder of how special outdoor events can be! We are seeing an increase in unusual event spaces – backyards, museums, art galleries, and gardens – transformed into amazing, one-of-a-kind experiences. We are also seeing home and ranch weddings and celebrations. Due to the ongoing uncertainty of the pandemic, outdoor space is more important than ever when considering a location. Just don’t forget to plan a weather contingency!
7. Sustainability— Doing Good, Giving Back
Awareness of the importance of sustainability has become paramount in the events world. There has been an increase of accountability and responsibilities on event professionals to lessen the impact on the environment. The events industry is progressively making an effort to lessen unnecessary waste, materials, and food. Rethinking swag bags, implementing composting and recycling, scrapping single use items, and going paperless are some of the ways you can green your events. We even recycle old furniture and reimagine with fresh upholstery to keep our rental collection stocked with unique pieces.
8. Economics of Events
Recently COVID has impacted the logistics of the event industry more and more. Over the past couple of years we have seen global inflation affect overall budgets to produce events, from vendor pricing and inventory availability. We are also experiencing labor shortages leading venues, planners, and vendors being short staffed. The supply chain has taken a hit from uncertainty of delayed shipments and shortages. All of this requires event professionals to plan ahead much more than before. Budgets will need to be shaped with these changes in mind. In 2022 we hope to see some improvements in this area and are doing our part to anticipate the challenges, but the best way to prepare is to revisit budgets and lock in vendors earlier in the planning cycle to secure inventory and labor.
Here at The Panacea Collective we are excited for the future and heading into 2022 with a renewed perspective and invigorated spirit. We are so excited to bring you new and thoughtful ways to make your event incredibly special, and continue to evolve and change the way events are produced in Austin, Texas, and beyond. We are here for you! Bring it!
