3 Ways to Give VIPs the Red-Carpet Treatment

Hey, corporate event planners! Let’s resolve to go above and beyond extra SWAG bags and a bottle of champagne in the green room for our #VIPs in 2023. I know, it’s easier said than done; especially when you’re in the weeds ensuring that all of your attendees have a fantastic event experience. That’s why I’ve got your back to ensure that no C-suite executive, keynote speaker, or 5-star entertainer gets left behind.?

1. Unique Gift Ideas Fit for a VIP

By definition, SWAG (Stuff We All Get) is not unique to any individual attendee — let alone a VIP. If you know the personalities of your special guests, consider personalized gift options based on their interests. For example, create three gift boxes – ‘chill-seeker,’ ‘thrill-seeker,’ and ‘skill-seeker’ – each offering goodies tailored to that VIP. Think drones and all-weather shoes for thrill seekers, and an annual Masterclass subscription for the skill seekers. For an added bonus, offer an activity that allows them to use their unique gifts during the program.

When in doubt, think local. Use the theme of your event and your destination to offer something they couldn’t find on their own. Case in point: Our San Diego office offered attendees the opportunity to create unique sunglasses featuring local art. VIPs were treated to a personalized fitting and even worked with an artist to create an absolutely one-of-a-kind gift. Pretty cool, right? ??

2. One-of-a-Kind VIP Experiences

When it comes to treating more experienced VIPs, it can be hard to wow them with something they’ve never seen or done before. At #360DG , we’ve found that the best bet is to offer them something uniquely tied to a destination. For example, our team in New York City has created exclusive fashion experiences worthy of Fashion Week, where a celebrity stylist put together a fashion show with professional models and discussed the trends for the season. In Napa Valley, our team has sent VIPs to meet with elite winemakers for a special tasting, followed by the chance to create their own signature blends.

3. Roll Out the Actual Red-Carpet Treatment – A VIP Party Must

Who doesn’t want to walk the red carpet? (I don’t see any hands going up). Take inspiration from the #GoldenGlobes and Academy Awards, and show VIPs how special they really are by turning a corporate event into a glamorous Hollywood evening. As attendees pull up to the event, actors posing as “paparazzi” snap pictures (which can be collected after the event). We did exactly this at a past event in Los Angeles, complete with a Joan Rivers look-alike to greet guests and complete the red carpet treatment.

A Word to the Wise: WiFi is Key

Even at the busiest event, chances are our VIPs will have some downtime or will inevitably need to check their inboxes. Speakers will likely want to run through their presentations a few times before they hit the stage as well. Ensuring your special guests have easy access to fast WiFi is crucial to providing them with a stellar experience.?

If you feel a little less stressed (or better yet, a little more inspired!) about treating your VIPs in 2023, I’ve accomplished my goal. And, as always, please comment to let me know how you’re going to put these ideas into action for your next program! I’ll catch you on the red carpet.?