An event’s theme exists in bigger, more dramatic ways, as well as in the smaller details. Here at cred, event planning is not just a practice, it’s an art. Our day-to-day responsibilities center on logistics that drive an event forward, but the larger goal is to create an experience—and an event’s theme, if done correctly, holds a lot of power to do just that.

Event themes go beyond deciding on a letterhead. They can set the tone, expectations, and overall impact when done correctly. A fun, lighthearted theme, such as “Hollywood,” works great for less formal events. A more niche, content-oriented theme, such as “Women in Tech,” works great for a summit that sets out to discuss and motivate around a certain area. You could also play off the time of year—March Madness, Olympics, World Cup are just a few seasonal themes we’ve seen executed. 

We share questions to ask yourself, ways to get inspired, and factors to consider as you bring your next event theme to life. 

Content

The content is the meat of an event. This calls for creativity with session titles, content tracks, stage names, and more. In cases where the theme of an event is very integral to its content (e.g. “Women in Tech”), the connection between the theme and pieces of content should be clear and add to the conversation. For event themes that focus more on fun fun (e.g. “Hollywood”), the connection can be more stylistic.

• “Hollywood” theme example: Name your different stages or content tracks with references like ‘{Event Name} Walk of Fame’. That said, be mindful to avoid infringement or copyright issues!

Speakers

Your keynote speaker should mirror the theme: you wouldn’t book a famous chef to speak at a software conference where the theme is digitizing the future, unless of course they’re beginning to make a name for themselves in that category (we all love a side hustle!) We know event budgets can range, but as long as the speaker is connected in some way to your theme, you can make it work. 

Bonus points if the keynote session bookends the event in some way, opening in the morning or closing the event, this provides all the more reason to hone in on the theme. 

• “Hollywood” theme example: Your keynote speaker could have had a role in movies, production, behind-the-scenes, costume design, musicals, or theater. They don’t have to be an A-list star with a six-figure price tag. We would advise booking a legendary actor or producer who can tell their own story, but their presence still ties back in some way to the greater concept.

Event Branding

In terms of branding, ensure that the website design, event platform (if applicable), printed materials, mobile app, and more match the theme visually. This means having a predetermined color scheme, set of logos, ticketing aesthetic, and slide templates that supplement the event theme. Of course, there is also the stage to consider (be it physical or virtual!). Ask yourself how you can incorporate the theme into these pieces.

Extras (food/bev, awards, etc.)

Once the primary event elements are in place, it’s time to dive into the more auxiliary details, such as food and beverage, awards, or surprise and delight activities/prizes.

Is there an awards element to your event? We can’t think of a more perfect excuse to play off the theme through prizes, plaques, costumes, and more. You would be surprised how dedicated attendees can commit to pulling off an outfit—bonus points if you decide to further incentivize attendees by having a photo booth. Whether in-person or virtual, this is a great way to build community and make a larger event feel smaller.

How about swag? Whether merch is distributed before the event or during, it will surely create excitement among  attendees and can even help to commemorate the event for years to come.

Have a vision for an event you want to bring to life? We’d love to help. Email us!