It’s been two decades since award-winning designer-turned-founder William Fogler arrived in Atlanta and launched WM Events. Since that time, we’ve seen many event trends rush in and sometimes go just as quickly.
In fact, you could say we’ve seen it all. From Atlanta to Denver, Boston to Orlando, and plenty of trips to Las Vegas, we’ve designed and produced weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, anniversaries, corporate events, awards shows, fundraisers, retail events, product launches, real estate grand openings, groundbreakings and so much more.
10 Top Picks from 20 Years of Events Trends
As we have stayed on top of the latest event innovations, we’ve noted those that have waned in popularity, as well as others that still look fresh today. Take a walk with us down memory lane as we review some of the top event trends that have popped up during the past 20 years – Part 1 (in no particular order).
Futurism
We’ll start our trip to the past with a look into the future. Space age style has often been on the top on our clients’ wish list.
Sustainability
There is no chic like eco-chic. More than a trend, this is an ethos we have brought to events for a long time, as well as one we work hard to take into consideration today. It’s always a great time to go greener at any celebration, and it never has to mean giving up on fabulous style.
Nonfloral centerpieces
While flowers are often the go-to option for tablescapes, bridal bouquets and entry décor, there are plenty of other possibilities. This is one area we’ve enjoyed pushing the envelope. Our belief about centerpieces is that really, anything goes!
Casinos
If it seems our love of Vegas has spilled over into our Atlanta events, we can only respond that it sounds like a safe bet. That’s because fun-only casinos have continued to be popular from the last decade to this one.
Statement pieces
Why go standard when you can go BIG? From ceiling installations to sculptural effects, we have employed a variety of materials, such as ribbons, balloons and paper, to create event décor that wowed clients and their guests.
Giant letters
Speaking of going big, our clients have loved seeing their name in lights, but it’s even better in massive letters. The same goes for mottos, hashtags and special messages. This décor feature looks great and doubles as an appealing social media photo spot.
Boho chic
Interior design has the farmhouse look made exceedingly popular by the likes of Joanna Gaines. At weddings, that design trend has translated to an affinity for boho chic style. Natural elements and materials combine with romance to give these weddings a signature look.
Boxwood walls
Along the lines of the trend toward sustainability, eco-events and natural décor, we’ve seen a huge rise in the popularity of boxwood walls. These offer not just a biophilic burst but also serve as an excellent backdrop to other décor like neon signs and event logos.
Interactive features
Rather than having guests sit, listen, and possibly absorb, give the people something to do. For many years, we’ve intentionally added interactive aspects to many events. These are especially beneficial at corporate events, trade shows and conferences, where information transfer is the goal. We always made the activities fun and focused on engaging multiple senses to enhance memory.
Custom everything
From anniversaries to corporate events, everyone likes to see their brand or theme reflected in the event. We have made this happen in many ways during the years like shining gobo light logos or creating a custom dance floor, branded pillows, take-home gifts and more.
Did you notice any of your favorite event trends in our first half of the top 20 from the last 20 years? If there is another one you expected to see, be sure to stay tuned for the Part 2 blog to find out what else made the list!