Wow factors are anything you use to create a special effect or big impact for an event. They can be used to open or close an event or to highlight the introduction of a VIP.
Here are some of my favorites:
Outdoor Fireworks
A fireworks show is a common way to close or highlight a nighttime event. They’re awesome for outdoor events with big spaces and big crowds, and they’re now available at quite a reasonable price. In almost any city, you can get a decent fireworks show for $3,000 to $10,000.
Keep in mind: Animals of all kinds are very afraid of fireworks. Be aware of this and avoid any potential problems for the animals and your guests.
Chinese Wish Lanterns
These are paper lanterns with a small cradle for a candle that, once lit, will created a hot-air balloon effect and lift the lantern into the sky. When you release the lantern, you are supposed to make a wish. These lanterns are great for any type of celebration, and they look awesome. They cost from $5 to $15 each depending on the size and also come in a biodegradable option.
Keep in mind: You must be diligent about the flight path of the lanterns to ensure they don’t catch anything on fire when they land. For this reason, I only use them over water.
Confetti Canons
Confetti Canons are air-pressurized tubes that shoot confetti and streamers out over the heads of your guest. They come in many sizes and can be used to enhance, any stage of your event.
Keep in mind: Anytime that you use confetti in any way, it can make a hard surface like a dance floor very slippery. If you can, have workers ready with blowers or brooms to sweep it up after the drop at your event.
Illusions
Illusionists can be used for any type of powerful product reveal or meeting opener. You can make celebrity guest or top management suddenly appear; it definitely creates a real WOW!
Keep in mind: There is a significant production requirement to fulfill these types of acts.
Indoor Pyro and Fireworks
These create loud explosions, smoke, and fire. Obviously, you will need a permit to use them, but they create another great event WOW.
Keep in mind: When it comes to indoor pyro, I highly recommend using just enough to accomplish your goal. Less is more.
Lasers
Lasers are great for adding impact whether you’re indoors or outdoors. They’re expensive and need to be scripted to music, so using them requires professional guidance. They work great for and opening act or in conjunction with fireworks.
Keep in mind: User lasers requires a lot of smoke in order for guests to be able to see them. Because smoke can be harder to control outside, lasers tend to work better inside, in a more controlled environment.
CO2 Cannon
These are loud special effects that are great for use on stages to introduce VIPs, for closing, etc. They blow a big cloud of carbon dioxide and make a massive boom sound that definitely gets everyone’s attention. Best of all, there is no mess.
Happy planning!
Want a FREE copy of my Amazon Best Selling Book, “Going Live: Insider Secrets to Corporate Event Production”? Download it and gain top insights by clicking here.