You know an event is important when a glamorous red carpet is present. You may find yourself asking “why do you need a red carpet at your event?” This is usually indicative of a formal occasion where celebrities, models, athletes, politicians and so forth are present. It adds a level of sophistication to any event. But when we really dive into what is a red carpet in an event? It's really just a red piece of cloth that people have come to know and recognize through elevated events such as the Oscars, movie premiers, the Grammy's and more. The truth is, anyone can throw a red carpet event, you don't have to be recognized or important in a certain industry.  

So how does everyone make it look so easy? With careful planning. We have put together all things to consider when throwing a perfect red carpet event.

1. Red Carpet Event Rentals

First and foremost, you need to make sure you have an actual red carpet at your event where guests can strut their stuff. Along with the red carpet, you will want a backdrop that is usually referred to as a "step and repeat banner," where you have logos covering the wall behind your guests. With technology these days, it's easy to design and create your very own customizable wall. This will give your event an elevated and realistic feel of a red carpet event. To go even more over the top, you can add red velvet ropes for another layer of elegance and sophistication.

2. Choosing a Unique Venue

You will want an event space that is equally as exclusive and suitable for a red carpet event. With so many special event venues to choose from in Los Angeles, your options are endless. At Piovra Group, we work directly with over 23 different event venues that can give a wide variety of ambiance and aesthetic to your event. Our Wisdome LA, with 5 geodesic domes provides a large flexible space perfect for a red carpet event. However, if you wanted to go even smaller, you could host a red carpet event right in your own backyard.

3. Invitations

Once you have decided on a red carpet event venue, you will want to send out invitations. The first thing you will want to decide on is your guest list and how many invitations will need to be sent out. Your guest list is only limited by your wants and how many people your event space can host. Once you know the number, you will then want to decide if you will be sending your invites digitally or in-person. There are benefits to both. Digital invites allow you to track RSVPs and send follow-up correspondence. However, in-person invites allow you to get very creative with the experience of opening the invite such as glitter, scented cards, texture and so forth. Regardless of which way you go, you will always want to include the time, location, dress code and food that will be served.

4. Dress Code

To make your red carpet event feel realistic and glamorous, you will want to set a dress code for your guests. You can make it a more formal, black-tie event or it can be themed, but regardless of which way you go, it should be focused on the fashion of your guests. Choosing an outfit you feel confident in and would like to be photographed in will make your event that much more fun as guests walk up and down the red carpet.

5. Food and Beverage

Champagne flutes are crucial at this kind of event, and guests should be greeted with a glass once they have finished walking the carpet. This makes them feel special. When it comes to the food, we always recommend at an event like this, buffet style or serving staff walking around with hors d'oeuvres. This makes eating simple and accessible for guests whenever they want to eat. To elevate the experience even more, you can hire bartenders to make craft cocktails and make sure all your utensils are gold and silver to add an elegant touch.

6. Décor and Entertainment

The final touches you will want to add to your event is décor and entertainment. For décor, you can add things like balloons, confetti, steamers, celebrity cutouts and so much more to really make your event come full circle. For entertainment, having activities that keep your guests entertained throughout your event is always a good idea. We don't think you can go wrong with a photobooth, broadcasting an event like the Oscars, live music with a DJ and so on. This will make your event one worth remembering.

We hope this article helps you throw an amazing and over-the-top red carpet event that your guests will be talking about for years to come. We at Piovra Group are more than happy to help step in and plan the party with you. We always aim to keep our clients happy and excited about the turnout of their event.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I rent a red carpet?

A: You can actually rent red carpets from vendors or you could make one yourself depending on which route you wanted to take.

Q: If I want a more casual dress code, is that okay?

A: Of course, it's your party. If you do go more casual however, we recommend at least adding a theme to make it more fun and memorable.

Q: If I don't know what venue I have in mind, can you help me find one?

A: Yes, at Piovra Group, that's what we do best as venue consultants. We can help you find the perfect space for your event.