We won’t be wrong if we say the stage is the modern-day thrown for nobles and dignitaries.
Staging is arguably the most crucial factor for any event, whether a concert, conference, or charity gala. It’s the place where you put your speakers under the spotlight. However, the key to success is crafting a flawless event stage design.
The perfect event stage design blends and bands together with other elements to put on a great show.
Professional staging hire providers can help you with event stage set design services. However, as an event organiser or planner, you should learn how to design a stage for an event. Mastering the basics of stage design will come in handy when you’re exploring event stage design ideas.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- Why is event staging important?
- How to design a stage for an event
- Different components of an event stage
- 5 factors to consider for stage set planning
Why is event staging important?
The stage is the focal point of an event, around which you build and shape the whole theme. It’s the centre point which draws attention and allows performers or speakers to stand out. That’s why event stage design becomes crucial, as it can make or break the whole experience.
Creating a stage design for events is a multifaceted process. You should align the stage set design with the event’s objective, theme, and other vital elements.
What is event stage design?
Event stage design, in a true sense, is the arrangement of different AV equipment to make space more presentable. Event staging components like lighting, furniture items, LED backdrop screens, curtains, and props help you make a statement. These elements highlight event aesthetics and blend the stage with the overall event theme.
How to design a stage for an event in six steps
No two designs are the same; they differ based on the types of events. Based on the specific nature of the event, you’ll have to design a precise stage set. You can quickly learn how to design a stage for an event by following the six-step guide.
Step 1: Outline the purpose of the event
Your first move should be to learn the primary purpose of the event. Designing a stage with details and exactness is easy when you know why an event is happening. Furthermore, determining the event’s purpose will give you an idea about the required design elements. Above all, you’ll be able to work on the next steps of stage designing with a clear mind.
So, ask basic questions like:
- Are you building a stage for a concert or fashion show?
- Are you designing a stage for corporate events?
- Is it for a product launch event or conference?
Outlining the purpose will help you know whether the event needs a minimalistic design or an extravagant stage. Furthermore, you’ll be able to pick the right features and stage accessories.
Step 2: Determine the stage size
An ideal event stage is neither short nor too large; it has to be perfect. So, the next big decision will be to decide how big your event stage should be. Of course, there are factors that you should consider before deciding the stage size, such as:
- event type
- venue space
- number of performers
- Space for stage equipment
- number of attendees
The stage size selection requires utmost attention; a minor change can ruin everything. Trusting someone to get all these factors right is a leap of faith. So, if you aren’t skilled in staging, hiring an experienced event production company is a good idea.
Step 3: Select stage shape and texture
Stages can be designed in different shapes to make a statement or adjust seating positions. You can craft a stage shape to set the environment using props, walls, or other elements. However, matching the event’s theme and style is crucial while defining the stage shape.
So, knowledge about stage shapes is vital if you are learning how to design a stage for an event. For most events, an elevated backdrop and a ‘T’ or ‘O’ shape serve the purpose.
The texture of an event stage design represents the visual appeal, such as shiny, silky, etc. For this purpose, you can use backdrop curtains, plasma screens, or LED video walls. Another way to add a luxury feel is red carpeting, which tends to induce lavishness.
Step 4: Pay attention to the stage layout
This step requires planning in advance as you’ll be deciding the arrangement of stage elements. So, you’ll have to put your thinking cap on and create the master plan to sort things out.
The purpose of the stage layout is to create a visually captivating and immersive event.
You should chalk out a stage sketch to explain which equipment piece and furniture item will be placed where. Moreover, you’ll decide the flow of the moment and how you want people to move around. This way, you can design an aesthetic and functional stage.
Step 5: Pick a colour scheme
One key aesthetic element that directly impacts an event stage design is the choice of colours. The reason is simple. Colours can communicate messages as they have social and cultural links. Moreover, colours have emotional and psychological effects, and thus, they affect our perception. So, you should try creating a consistent look and feel on your stage set design with a relevant colour scheme.
Your goal should be to compliment the overall event theme using colours. An easy way to achieve this is by using blue, white, and red lighting to create a luxurious environment. If you are trying to form a calm, soothing atmosphere, using tints (soft colours) is a good idea.
Step 6: Choose AV equipment
Let’s be honest. You should know the importance of AV equipment when learning how to design a stage for an event. Without audio visual devices and lighting, a stage set design is unfinished and imperfect. Consider the event requirements and the equipment the performers or speakers will need to connect with the audience.
Get familiar with elements of stage design
The key to a successful event stage design is seamlessly combining different elements. Therefore, you should be aware of each to get the best out of your stage set design.
Event stage accessories
If you think staging only involves designing and structure, you couldn’t be wrong. An event stage comprises decks of different dimensions and stage raisers of various heights. Then there are podiums, pipes and drapes, handrails, and stage steps that you must consider. These stage accessories can help you achieve the right size, height, and shape.
Lighting fixtures
No event is complete without lighting, indoor or outdoor, as it sets the mood. You can highlight key elements, performers or speakers and create visual art using lighting. You can get event lighting fixtures in various types, sizes, and shapes as per stage requirements.
Some of the commonly used equipment are:
- Uplighters
- Gobos
- Lighting consoles
- LED profiles
- Spotlighting
The good thing is that you won’t have to buy them; you can hire event stage lighting.
Audio equipment
When it comes to hiring equipment for event staging, audio devices should be your first priority. The reason behind this is simple: without quality sound, your audience won’t bother looking at the stage. It doesn’t matter how creative and alluring your stage design looks; you’ll lose them if they can’t hear you.
Therefore, rent sound systems, speakers, microphones, and audio mixers to convey the message loud and clear. If you are hosting a corporate event or a seminar, don’t hesitate to hire wireless mics or headsets.
Visual elements
Nothing makes an event more aesthetic than visuals, as they make occasions eye-catching and memorable. That’s why brands and businesses try to create strong visual identities whenever they host events. Event visuals involve content creation (logo and graphics) and visual equipment rentals, such as LED video walls and plasma screens.
IT equipment
You may not need it, but knowing what you can accomplish with IT equipment is good. These devices can improve the overall experience and make your event more fun.
For example, you can use a projector and screen during a conference event. An interactive voting system can help you gather audience data in real-time, and you can improve engagement. Similarly, you can hire laptops and MacBooks to enhance productivity at your annual general meeting (AGM).
5 factors that impact events stage design
Aside from elements of stage design, there are a few other critical factors that impact event staging. That’s because stage design varies from occasion to occasion based on event needs. A design that works for live event staging may not be suitable for hybrid and virtual events.
Your audience
The foundation of event marketing is standing on providing audience-first content. This means you should be aware of their interests, preferences, and dislikes. Such information will provide clarity and allow you to customise your stage design better.
For instance, some audiences like loud music and Gobo lighting, while others prefer relaxing music and soft lighting.
The key to a successful event is tailoring your event stage accordingly. So, have a clear idea of your audience before learning how to design a stage for an event. This will come in handy when you’ll be searching for locations, deciding on themes, and renting AV equipment.
Event budget
Budget is the first consideration once you have an idea of your audience and what would work. The reason is simple. It’ll affect the costs of stage decorations, venue hire, contractors, and AV hire.
Venue location
When it comes to event marketing, location is everything. Finding suitable London venues to hire is not difficult if you are aware of your audience. The process becomes easier if you have already defined a budget and the event type you will host.
Events are typically divided into three main categories:
Corporate events: conferences, seminars, product launches, AGMs, etc.
Social events: fundraisers, charity gala dinners, concerts, sporting events, award ceremonies
Cultural events: concerts, fashion shows, exhibitions etc.
You’ll have to find a specific venue to meet particular staging needs based on the event type. After all, conference staging differs from product launch or fashion show staging. Similarly, you’ll have to determine stage size, consider layout, and choose equipment accordingly.
Event theme
Your event theme will define the look and feel of the stage and overall environment. However, the most crucial part is to select a suitable theme based on the type of event.
For example, if you are hosting a corporate event, you’ll need a raised stage with professional lighting. You can opt for soft lights to accommodate the projector and screen for better presentation. Furthermore, you’ll require a sound system, LED video wall or plasma screen, and wireless mics.
On the other hand, you’ll need an elegant, glamorous theme for a gala dinner event. Your stage design must be extravagant, filled with lighting effects, props, Gobos, or disco lights. Also, do appropriate branding using relevant brand colours and display boards if you have sponsors.
Event goals
The purpose of stage design is to complete and balance the event theme while improving output and efficiency. Therefore, stage designs for events should complement and fulfil the end goals. You should select stage size, shape, layout, and equipment according to meet the ultimate goal.
For instance, the purpose of an award ceremony is to honour high achievers and show gratitude. You’ll need an autocue, a quality audio system, and a large video wall on the stage for such events. On the other hand, a conference or seminar requires furniture items, wireless headsets, and multiple mics. This will let attendees ask speakers and guests questions during the Q&A sessions.
Final Note
Learning how to design a stage for an event is an art, as you must find the perfect balance. Truth be told, event stage design often becomes a complex, multifaceted task for event organisers and planners. Since all eyes will be on the stage, make sure that the audience and participants fall in love with it.
EMS Events can help you select an enticing design and the proper staging equipment quickly. Whether you are launching a product, hosting a conference, or producing a concert, we can help. So, if you need an expert event production company for staging hire in London, Contact Us.
