My brother has a saying when we are working down at my dad’s barn, “Check your feelings at the door.” In his defense, this is his gracious attempt to say, “No drama here,” and to control a positive outcome for work.
Because this statement stops me dead in my tracks as I’m all feelings, I decided to put a different spin on it by inserting the words “in with” into the statement.
My rewrite: “Check in with your feelings at the door.”
Ahh, that feels better. Here’s how we can use this new phrase to transform events into memorable moments.
With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it is easy to get into a default planning mode of executing the same type of events, traditions, meals, meetings, etc.
If you are the person in charge or at times stuck with the task of “getting everyone together,” asking yourself a simple yet profound question can interrupt this default and serve as a magical cornerstone for choreographing an unforgettable experience: “How do you want them to feel?”
Setting the Intention
The power of this question gives a nod to the power of intention which is often underestimated. When you start with the question: “How do I want my attendees to feel?” you lay the groundwork for purpose, especially the needed purpose for this particular moment in time. You see people and their emotions change depending on their current state of affairs. What worked last year, might fall flat this year, simply because people are not up to it. Or the opposite could be true, maybe your audience which could include family, friends, coworkers, etc. might be ready for a new tradition or hungry to get everyone together.
Defining this intention from the outset shapes every decision you make, from the venue and decor to the activities and overall atmosphere.
Choreographing Emotions
Events are like intricate dances, and emotions are the choreography. Do you want your attendees to feel joy, connection, inspiration, or perhaps a sense of calm? Your role as an event planner is to orchestrate an experience that resonates with the emotional needs of your audience. Consider the flow of emotions throughout the event – the anticipation as they arrive, the engagement during activities, and the satisfaction or reflection as they leave. By choreographing these emotional moments, you create a seamless and immersive experience.
The Impact of Feelings
Why prioritize emotions in event planning? The answer lies in the profound impact feelings have on memory and overall satisfaction. People may not remember every detail of the decor or the schedule, but they will vividly recall how an event made them feel. Whether it's the warmth of a family gathering, the excitement of a celebration, or the serenity of a retreat, emotions become the lasting impression that lingers in the hearts and minds of your attendees.
Creating Inclusive Experiences
Every person comes to an event with unique experiences, backgrounds, and emotions. By acknowledging and incorporating this diversity, you can create inclusive experiences that resonate with a broad audience. Consider how different elements of your event can appeal to various emotions, ensuring that everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
In the art of event planning, the one question, "How do you want them to feel?" serves as a compass, guiding every decision and action. By placing emotions at the forefront of your planning process, you transform events from mere gatherings into powerful, transformative experiences. So, the next time you embark on planning an event, embrace the emotions, and as you check in with your feelings and others while they enter through your door, watch as your gatherings become authentic, memorable, and deeply impactful for everyone involved.
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