Customizing an event can be a blast, but overwhelming at the same time. Whether you need help gathering ideas, designing, finding décor or coordinating the event, there are professionals to help.

Here are five things to think about when planning an event and how hiring a décor vendor can help:

#1 Theme

When preparing an event it is always best to choose a theme to carry throughout the entirety of the event. You can pick a color scheme or have a theme, such as a Luau or a Masquerade party.

#2 Invitations

The first place a theme is noticed is in the invitations. Invitations are a great way to set the tone for the event. They let people know whether it is a casual event or black tie. It seems old fashioned to send invitations via snail mail but who doesn't love to receive a letter in the mail. Plus, a tangible invitation is a great reminder for people to RSVP and to actually attend an event. Invitations can be designed as a standard card or into a fun design to represent the theme. One of my favorite themed invitations was a pineapple and flamingo baby shower. The invitations were memorable and fun. They were cut into a pineapple shape, decorated with hibiscus' flowers and a flamingo tied it all together.

Invitations by Graceful Jane Designs & Events

#3 Add a Back-drop

Not only does the venue of the event help set the mood but so does the décor. Even if the room is a huge white empty space, there are many ways to transform it to match your theme. One of my favorite ways to transform a space to match a theme is to focus on a backdrop. This is also a great spot for a photo opportunity. For example, for a Luau, make a tropical looking backdrop with palm trees, coconuts and flowers. Add a table next to the backdrop to house photo props such as leis, a surfboard, fun sun hats, a beach ball and some fun speech bubbles.

#4 Centerpieces

Some other ways to transform a space is to add accent pieces to tables and walls. A great way to do this is with centerpieces and wall décor. If the theme is a circus event, you could have popcorn, peanuts and candy in vases as a centerpiece at each table. Signs with sayings and quotes are another fun way to tie a theme together. They can either be hung on the wall or set on tables. You can even match your food to the theme or give it fun themed names. For a circus theme, you can have the food cards be shaped like circus tents and have names such as licorice as the Ring Master's Whips or cake pops to look like Dumbbells.

#5 Turning Your Vision Into Reality

One of the best things about décor is that you get to set the tone for the event with it. You can go as casual or elegant as you would like. I really love working with clients to create products that tie their theme together all while on a budget. My ultimate goal is to help people turn their visions into reality by producing high quality products at affordable prices. I love hearing your ideas, inspirations, and themes! Tell me everything you think I would need to know, even the silly things. It really helps me to create the perfect product for you.

What my company, Graceful Jane Designs & Events, can offer you:

My services include everything from stationary, any party décor, cake toppers, signs and centerpieces to event planning and assisting in any way I can. Any of my products and services can be customized to your liking as well. A complete list of everything I offer and examples of all my services can be found on my Facebook Page, Graceful Jane Designs & Events. If you see something you like or would like to place a custom order, send me a message and we can start the design process.

Most of my work and events have been focused on children's parties, however, I love helping with all types of events. This last year, I worked with a small team and we coordinated a styled Christmas mini photo session. I loved styling the backdrop and even offered personalized holiday cards and wood signs. Another favorite event I coordinated was a dessert and worship night for a local church. I organized the order of service, volunteers, the menu and the décor. It was so much fun!

A few things to know about my company, Graceful Jane Designs & Events:

I run this business by myself with the support of my husband. All communications, processing, design and coordinating is done through me. I am constantly thinking, creating, planning and dreaming of the next event or product.
I am always up to try something new. One of my favorite orders was when a client's daughter wanted a Star Wars and My Little Pony birthday party. It was such a fun event to create. The daughter loved seeing her favorite Ponies holding lightsabers.
It is never too early to start planning an event. Often times after an event, I am already planning and thinking about the following years event.
My turnaround time varies with every product. For smaller products, such as mugs, the turnaround time is 3-4 days including shipping. For larger quantity products, such as party décor or multiple items in an order, the turnaround time 1 to 2 weeks including shipping. All graphic design has a turnaround time of 2 weeks before first proof is sent. Rush orders are available.
I love celebrating all of the special moments in life. Any reason to have a party and I am there!

Author Bio: Hello all! My name is Krystal, and I am the owner and operator of Graceful Jane Designs & Events. Just to tell you a little about me, I am wife to a wonderful, hard-working husband, and mother to two beautiful, wild and sassy little girls (both under five)! I am everything from teacher to home-maker to business professional. I also serve part time at my church as social media coordinator and Executive Assistant to the Pastors. Needless to say I have my hands full, but truth be told, that is how I like it.

I started Graceful Jane Designs & Events, LLC for many reasons, but I think that the most rewarding facet of what I do is that no matter the occasion, whatever your needs, I love helping people turn their visions into reality by producing high quality products at affordable prices! I recently celebrated my first year in business and I must say, when this idea began formulating in my mind almost five years ago it almost seemed impossible. Yet through great effort, many late nights and the tireless support of my family and friends, here I am!

What to Think About When Hiring a Designer or Décor Vendor

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