Operations expert Brittany Dahlgren is one of the behind-the-scenes team members who goes into the venue before the big day to get all of the elements set up and running, then comes back afterwards to deinstall the décor, making the whole process seamless. When she’s not hanging ceiling installations and laying out floorplans, Brittany spends her time in other active pursuits – hobbies that have a clear influence on her ideal event.
If I were an event, I would be … an obstacle race with an outdoor festival of fun.
My purpose would be … to raise money for a charity providing prosthetics for children.
I would take place … at an outdoor setting near a lake so that the obstacles could include water events. Reynolds Lake Oconee would be an ideal spot.
My theme would be … friendly competition. In the spirit of Tough Mudder or the Spartan races, participants would be challenged with completing a daunting course, but my event would be family friendly, so the competition style would be too.
My format would be … an obstacle course within a larger festival atmosphere. While the course would remain open throughout daylight hours, participants would be welcome to come early and stay late in order to enjoy a variety of other playful activities like games, face painting, a rope swing, tie-dying and more. A hose-off station and several misters would help keep everyone cool. To remind participants about the important reason for the day of competitive fun, an open tent would feature displays and educational elements about the latest developments and achievements in prosthetics.
My décor would be … relaxing and outdoorsy. Above a picnic area, market lights would put a twinkle in the sky, while rustic elements would create the overall style of the event.
My florals would … complement the Southern style of my décor with lots of greenery, succulents and wildflowers virtually everywhere!
My entertainment would be … a kid-friendly DJ for an ongoing dance party – all ages welcome, of course. Later in the day, local musicians and talent would be stationed throughout the event grounds to provide a variety of entertainment experiences.
Guests would dine on … relaxed fare from onsite food trucks. There would be plenty of ice cream and frozen treats – what better way to cool off after completing a challenging obstacle course?
Refreshing beverages would include … everything great from a traditional concession stand. That means slurpees, slushies, lemonade and root beer floats. Water would be available throughout at all times to keep everyone hydrated.
My guest count would be … hopefully thousands of participants who like to get active in the name of a good cause.
I would invite guests with … a promotional campaign combing media coverage, social media sharing and partnerships. This special day of competition would also be included on Active.com.
I would incorporate the latest technologies with … innovative timing chips for race bibs for all of the participants so that the obstacle course could serve as a qualifier for other races. I would have fun technology focused on capturing the day in photos. Multiple photo booth options would give attendees the chance to pose and automatically upload to social media, while other photographs would be printed onsite for keepsakes. An Instagram Stories campaign would feature guest’s personal competition stories filmed onsite.
My guests will go home with … a medal! Racing for charity deserves this automatic thank you, do everyone gets one. As far as the competition, individuals and teams of at least six participants could also win for best time in various categories.