Eight emerging trends in event styling

Tracy Wood, director of Sydney-based event management company Funktionality, outlines eight event-styling trends for 2024.

As the director of an event management company with more than two decades of experience, I’ve witnessed the ever-changing landscape of event styling firsthand. Our base in the vibrant Inner West of Sydney has allowed us to stay at the forefront of industry trends.

The journey of event styling in 2024 is thrilling. Customisation and creativity are the focus, and our Inner West roots have inspired us to embrace sustainability, cultural celebrations and the fusion of technology and tradition.

Here are some of the latest developments shaping event styling in 2024.

Sustainability as a guiding principle

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a guiding principle in event styling. We’ve made it a mission to embrace eco-friendly practices by sourcing locally, reducing waste and repurposing decor.

Sustainability not only aligns with our values, it resonates with our clients who want their events to be visually stunning and environmentally responsible.

Cultural and heritage celebrations

One of the most enriching trends we’ve seen is the celebration of diverse cultures and traditions. In the Inner West, with its rich multicultural tapestry, there is demand for events that showcase the beauty of different backgrounds. From vibrant Indian weddings, to elegant Chinese New Year celebrations and Indigenous ceremonies and performances, these events are a testament to the cultural richness of our community.

Fire cooking, and using cultural or traditional fire cooking techniques, is part of this, and we’re going to see more of the “hanging grill”.

Floral extravaganza

Dry florals have always held a special place in our hearts, and this year they’ve taken centre stage in event styling. Elaborate floral installations, suspended gardens and cascading blooms create breathtaking environments which can be reused and repurposed. These natural wonders not only add beauty to events but a sense of wonder.

Immersive experiences that captivate

Our clients are seeking more than just events – they want immersive experiences that engage all the senses. From interactive art installations to virtual-reality adventures, we’ve embraced the trend of creating moments that transport our guests to different worlds. These experiences leave lasting impressions and make our events unforgettable.

Exploring new venues

Sydney never ceases to surprise us with its evolving landscape. In 2024, we’re excited about the fresh wave of venues that are emerging. From repurposed industrial spaces to futuristic architectural marvels, these venues inspire our creativity and allow us to offer clients unique event backdrops.

The evolution of entertainment

After-dinner shows have become more choreographed, featuring flash mobs and surprise elements that captivate and delight our guests. These unexpected moments add an extra layer of excitement to every event we design.

Robots and AI integration

We can’t help but consider the possibilities of artificial intelligence in event styling. From the bar to the dance floor, AI innovations offer a glimpse into a world that engages and captivates our guests through technology.

Timeless themes with a twist

While we explore new horizons, we also cherish timeless themes. These classics add a touch of nostalgia and playfulness to our events, creating a fun and everlasting memory for guests.

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