Choose An Appropriate Venue
Find a space that is interesting and a little bit different. It can be challenging to find a spot that is trendy and brand new, so just aim for somewhere that is not overly used and convenient. Maybe you find a place that has a great reputation, or somewhere that is a little intriguing for one reason or another. Although the event’s budget must inevitably be considered, try to avoid choosing a venue solely based on the price. If you’re hosting a themed wine event, you can start your venue brainstorming with some options that compliment your theme.
Show Your Hospitality (Before The Event Even Starts)
It can be tempting to farm out your event’s invitations to a third-party company, but consider making the invitations yourself or with your team. Mail a clever and enticing printed invitation if time allows. Then, send out electronic reminders and confirmations via email. Some
wine event experts even call their guests a few days before the event. This adds an extra level of personalization and professionalism. A friendly phone call is not only a great way to make sure your event stands out, but also an outstanding strategy for ensuring high attendance.
Be Prepared
Ensure that your guests will not have to wait for the room to be prepared. Although this seems obvious, it’s a common mistake for wine event creators to show up “on time” to the event only to realize the glasses are not set out just right and the tables have not been set properly.
In addition to making sure the basic elements of the event have been attended to, go above and beyond by handing out pamphlets detailing the wines, wineries, harvest report, tasting notes, and bottling details. This pamphlet can not only serve as a great takeaway that helps guests remember your event, but is also an easy item for guests to show their friends to entice them to register for the next event!
Check The Temp.
Be sure that your wines have been stored properly so that they can be served at the appropriate temperature. Here’s what you should aim for:
- Light dry white wines, rosés, sparkling wines: Serve at 40° to 50° F
- Full-bodied white wines and light, fruity reds: Serve at 50° to 60° F
- Full-bodied red wines and Ports: Serve at 60° to 65° F
Avoid Strong Scents
Perfumes, air fresheners, and any other strong scents will affect your guests’ ability to taste the true flavors of the wine. It’s also best to avoid setting out any potpourri, scented candles, and fragrant flowers when decorating your venue. You can even include a short, friendly message as part of the confirmation email, advising guests to refrain from wearing perfume and cologne.
Keep Guests Safe
Be careful of overly enthusiastic guests that are just “trying to get their money’s worth.” People sometimes reason that since they spent a certain amount of money on an event, that they need to eat and drink enough to justify the amount spent. This usually results in one or two attendees shoveling appetizers and copious amounts of alcohol into their systems.
This scene is shortly followed by an astounded reaction when they realize they can no longer make it down the stairs without stumbling, or have any chance of driving home safely. It’s at times like these that your new wine glass is accidentally broken or your new tablecloth is found soaked in red wine. The bottom line: urge guests to eat and drink in moderation and hold them accountable.
Pair The Right Food With The Pour
Whether you’re cooking up some delectable snacks yourself, or working with chefs or other event planners, finding the rights pairings is essential. It’s best to provide food that enhances the flavors of the wines being served. However, use caution in choosing overly complex recipes so that the food does not become the center of attention.
