Have you ever attended a conference or party with no theme? No matter how fun, productive, or memorable it was, it will always feel like something is missing. Themes tend to bring a whole group of strangers together. The attendees may be different and from all different walks of life, but during that one event, they are all part of a bigger picture. THAT is why conference themes are so important!
Conferences are about learning and networking. Bringing peers together with a theme can be the difference between a successful event and a failed event. So, before you put any more thought into creating your next conference, come up with some fantastic conference themes. Then, work the rest of the conference around it.
Here are a few ideas to get you started.
The backyard picnic
If you are looking to have a conference with a relaxed atmosphere and a familial feel, then why not design a backyard picnic? This is one of the simplest conference themes that doesn’t require a great amount of frill. Instead, you will want your guests to arrive in attire that allows them to enjoy playing some yard games and eating at a picnic table. Serving typical barbecue foods will be key, too, such as hamburgers and hot dogs, corn on the cob, potato salad, etc.
Complete this look by choosing a tent as your venue. Tent rentals can be customized, so you will be able to get the exact size that you need. This will allow some shade and cover for your guests but also keep the backyard picnic feel.
Lost in the jungle
Do you feel like the attendees are just roaming aimlessly and you are looking to bring them together as a unit? Let them try to find their way out of the jungle! This theme is fun and lively. Think about it – a jungle is made up of dense trees, exotic animals and a tropical atmosphere (among a few other things). Have your attendees work together to find their way out of the jungle and back to civilization! This is great for team-building while also providing a neat theme that will make it feel as if you have been transported to a different location.
Due to the need for dense vegetation, you will likely want to keep this conference outdoors, as well. Again, consider a tent rental. Too many plants indoors could leave you with quite the mess!
You are on the air
Let the attendees take over the frequency! This theme is one that can circle around all things broadcasting, whether radio or television. The point of the conference would be to let them have their voices heard, but doing so in a fun way! For example, allowing turns to be taken sitting behind a news desk and having it broadcasted throughout the event. Or, hosting a game show that is broadcasted during the event – with the attendees as the contestants.
Nautical theme
Come sail away! Transform the venue for this conference into a nautical adventure! This one, however, requires you to have your guests dress in character. No bathing suits, but a definite sea-worthy embarkation outfit! This maritime theme won’t be complete without anchors, water, and ships! Even fake ones will do! Complete the look with fish tanks and deep blue lights throughout the venue.
So, find yourself a captain, mates, and passengers. Decide what time you set sail and ask that your guests join you!
The 1950’s
This decade is known for its poodle skirts, drive-in food palaces, hip-shaking music, slicked back hair, and shiny cars. It is very easy to transform any venue into a 1950’s memory. However, if you want the ultimate 50’s look, it is going to require you to rent a tent.
Your must-haves for this conference theme are:
- Black and white checkered floor (yes, you can still have this with a tent rental).
- A jukebox.
- Rent antique cars from the 1950’s and park them along the sides of the tent rental, appearing as though it is a drive-in diner.
- Serve food, such as burgers, fries, milkshakes, etc.
To finish the look, you will absolutely need to play music from this era and request that your attendees dress appropriately matched, too.
No one wants to be known as the one who schedules a boring conference. Conference themes help to bring everyone together by letting loose and having fun. Therefore, find what will make your attendees participate and have fun – and go with it! Give them something to remember and talk about – in a good way.