Summer Event Guide
Summer is in full swing and there’s still lots of time to enjoy some fun in the sun. We chatted to event planner and full-time architect, Thato Motebang for some expert advice on how to style and plan your summer event at home.
Natural Surroundings
When planning décor for an event, Thato uses her surroundings and experience as an architect to find inspiration and prepare a concept. “I draw inspiration from Pinterest and other search engines. This is a typical way of preparing your concept in architecture. We would refer to it as a precedent study, where one looks at creative work done by others to draw inspiration and trigger your creative edge,” said Thato.
A Splash of Colour
When it comes to choosing colours and decor for your summer décor, Thato suggests keeping things minimalist, contemporary and eye-catching. “Earthy colours seem to be the current trend, subtle nudes and shades of pinks…Lux chandeliers, all-white is very classic, I don’t think it will ever go out of fashion – it’s chic, classy and very elegant.” Thato explained.
The Elements
A well-decorated table is made up of several elements that pull your event together. Thato is drawn to a table by the type of glasses and crockery but also says quality linen is an important element to consider. “Flowers, flowers and more flowers, lol! For me, cutlery also makes a very important statement…A creative take on stationery is also a bonus.” added Thato.
Thato loves decorating for intimate gatherings at home. She considers patios, shaded gardens that give your guests a view, courtyards, entrance foyers that can be converted into an event space and even rooftops as ideal places to set up your party. If you’re working in a smaller space, Thato recommends being intentional and going for a minimalist approach to draw attention to a focal point or area.
Get Creative
Activities that double as decor such as photo booths have been trending for a while, according to Thato, “The solid backdrop is becoming a thing of the past, there’s so much beauty in a natural landscape. I think backdrops should incorporate the natural landscape in the background, so in other words, backdrops should literally be just a frame boxing in the beauty of the landscape that the venue has to offer.”
Like most things, celebrations and parties have changed in the past year and virtual parties, especially for celebrations such as baby showers, have gained in popularity and can be a great way to connect with family and friends around the world. “I had an opportunity to set for a baby shower, firstly the technology must be on point, but what is important is to keep it minimal in terms of colours. It must be eye-catching for your virtual guests, but not too distracting because they need to focus on the guest of honour,” said Thato. She also suggested that virtual events be kept short, fun and entertaining.
Thato says her career as an architect has given her valuable skills when it comes to researching and conceptualising events as well as transforming spaces to create perfect events.
Summer is in full swing and there’s still lots of time to enjoy some fun in the sun. We chatted to event planner and full-time architect, Thato Motebang, for some expert advice on how to style and plan your summer event at home.
