Think about the last party you went to where you had a really great experience. What was it like? Was the music selection and volume just right? Was the room or venue set-up comfortably? Was the lighting perfect? If you answered "yes" to any or all of these questions then you have benefited from the art of incorporating the 5 senses into event planning.
Humans are driven by their senses. When one sense is destroyed another overcompensates in its place. If one sense is overpowered, the brain will seek out less intrusive elements to calm and center the body and mind. It is essential for the overall theme and design of the baby shower to incorporate each of the 5 senses into the planning and delivery of the shower. Well balanced baby shower party decorations that include visual and lighting techniques, space, sound, taste and smell elements create a balanced experience that is sure to please each guest in a unique way.
We have discussed baby shower decorating ideas for areas of the home (or venue). Not lets look at how to enhance these areas using the 5 human senses.
Visual and Lighting:
Does each area of the venue have a focus piece related to the shower? Do they have other items near by that compliment or contrast? Have you, as the designer, incorporated items from around the home or venue to enhance the area so that it is visually pleasing?
If guests will be reading or viewing baby items, is their enough light? Are windows treated with appropriate curtains for the time of day? Shades or blinds for mid-day, sheer curtains for morning or early evening? Does the current lighting enhance the mood or feel that you are trying to achieve? Have you examined potential problem areas and used items from the shower, home or venue to rectify each issue?
Sound:
Well chosen musical selections are essential to the mood and feel of the shower. Is there enough music to last for the entire shower? Are the selections appropriate and add a note of interest to the theme or guests? Is it loud enough to be heard but soft enough so as not to distract or deter conversation? Is the sound system easy to use? Should you hire a professional DJ or band to provide the music for a more formal event?
Smell:
The sense of smell is very strong so it is incredibly important to use care and caution when evaluating the multitude of aromas your guests will encounter while at the party. Avoide scents that are naturally very strong. In the kitchen, stick to more natural scents such as bouquets of flowers and skip the artificial smells of candles or in-scents. Candles and scented oils should be burned in bathrooms, parlors or main party rooms and only if they compliment the aroma of the florals that are also present. Always go with the idea that "less is more" when deciding when, where and what types of aromatics to incorporate into the party.
Space and Touch:
Be sure to arrange tables and chairs so that traffic can flow smoothly throughout the venue. Smaller groups of chairs make for more intimate conversation and evoke a feeling of closeness. Avoid placing party platters in areas that will "clog" as guests make their food and drink selections. Place tangible items in areas where guests might have to wait for food or viewing opened baby shower gifts.
Taste:
Strive to include a variety of food textures, temperatures and colors in the spread. Avoid offering too many food items that are the same color. Mix and match items of different colors on the buffet to stimulate the visual senses. Select baby shower food recipes that combine many flavors that compliment one another and that match the theme of the shower.
Keeping the 5 senses in mind when you are planning and decorating for a baby shower will ensure your create a balanced and pleasing environment for a variety of attendees. When planning the shower, be sure to always evaluate each area of the venue or home for these essential elements.
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