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Embracing Diversity with Every Design

Something that we take great pride in is our ability to meet any need in any situation. More than the ability to adapt, running a successful event requires the ability to anticipate. Event and hospitality pros are consistently required to respond to the needs of their guests, which far exceed a 7 a.m. wake-up call or a comped meal to apologize for cold chicken. We live in a world where diversity should be celebrated and where individuals are encouraged to express their views and defend their identities. As a result, a well-designed event requires a certain level of cultural competence—the ability to effectively identify and respond to various cultural factors that can have an effect on how a guest responds to an experience.

Here is how we keep cultural competence top of mind when designing an experience for different groups of guests:

  • 1. Stay up-to-date on cultural and social conflicts.
    This is basic but essential. It’s important to pay attention to current events and beware of things that could be interpreted as offensive or discriminatory. It’s very possible that a lack of sensitivity could promote harmful assumptions and stereotypes that make certain guests feel out of place or offended.
  • 2. Approach ‘difference’ with curiosity and respect; learn from people who are different from you.
    You may even realize that others’ ideals make more sense than what you’ve been taught! For more perspective, consider Hofstede’s cultural dimensions theory, which essentially analyzes culture through six indices:

    • Power Distance Index
    • Individual vs. Collectivism
    • Uncertainty Avoidance Index
    • Masculinity vs. Femininity
    • Long-Term Orientation vs. Short-Term Orientation
    • Indulgence vs. Restraint.

    The score of each index offers a means to analyze the behaviors associated with each respective dimension. For example, the Uncertainty Avoidance Index measures the scope in which members of a society respond to ambiguity. A high score on this index suggests an aversion to and potential fear of uncertainty, which may help explain why some of your guests ask an overwhelming amount of questions about their ground transportation to the airport.

  • 3. Examine our background and culture.
    We challenge ourselves to analyze how our own cultural environment has shaped our attitudes and experiences. When you can understand the logic and context of your own beliefs, it’s easier to be sensitive to the beliefs of others.Questions to consider when constructing a hospitable space or designing an event:

    • Are there any cultural or religious conflicts with the location, time, and date of the event? 
      Is there disability access to the space?
    • Are there food options that consider religious and dietary restrictions?
    • Is there a dress code that should be communicated to guests?
    • Is there any point where guests will need to disclose information about their gender and/or sexuality?

These questions prompt us to consider how slight adjustments in our planning processes can cultivate a more inclusive environment. Take time to consider some of these to create personalized and customized experiences and different communication channels for different groups of guests.

Crafty Ceremony and Reception Ideas

While preparing for the happiest day of your life, you’ll be creating amazing memories and keepsakes along the way. The only question is, what makes the perfect wedding craft? Here is some inspiration for getting in touch with your creative side to seamlessly infuse your personalities into crafty touches for the big day! 

Ceremony and receptions signs are extremely helpful in directing guests where to go. Why not make those signs a little more personable? Incorporating your theme into these focal points will help frame your picture perfect day. The possibilities are endless. Take a look at this customized seating chart design from one of our weddings at Harborside East!

A great way to showcase your wedding’s location is to integrate it’s natural elements into the design. Photo displays are a sentimental way to feature special moments or to honor loved ones. Peek your guests’ exploratory interests while giving them a glimpse of some family memorabilia with this crafty family tree…literally!

Cocktail hour provides guests with a little downtime to mingle and relax before the big wedding celebration. Give them something to talk about and consider adding a little floral fun to your signature drinks. These stunning edible flower ice cubes are impressive yet incredibly easy to execute. After all, who doesn’t love a little botanical pick me up? Check out how-to instructions.

The wedding guest book is for capturing the names and special wishes of those individuals who celebrated your wedding. Personalize this wedding detail by transforming it into an interactive, DIY activity that makes it memorable for you and your guests. Get creative and be unconventional.

Pro tip: Try a guest recipe book! Start by sharing your favorite recipe, ingredients, or restaurant as inspiration, and throughout the ceremony guests can join in the fun. How fantastic would it be to try out their suggestions throughout your marriage?

The newlywed send-off is a magical tradition that is meant to bring good health and prosperity to your marriage. Sparklers, confetti, and rice are typically the go-to wedding send-off, but why not shake things up? Ring in the start of your new journey with these DIY lace tambourines. This sweet craft will help end your celebration on a positive note, that will resonate with your guests afterwards. Check out how to make these here.

We’re always striving to do something different, and there is no better way than to be crafty and creative with elements from each part of your big day. For more inspiration, head over to Charleston Crafted for some unique, locally-made items that can be incorporated into your design to make the day even more memorable.

New Event Rentals at EventWorks

We stopped by EventWorks, one of the southeast’s largest event rental companies, to chat with Ashley about what they offer for events as well as all of their new amazing rental options for 2018!