A Color Story: Embracing Winter White All Year Long

After multiple years when events were in flux and plenty of questions surrounded the present and future of the events industry, 2023 showed that events are back in force. If there was any doubt after the pandemic that events would ever return, this year showed that in-person gatherings and events are here to stay.

There’s no doubt that 2023 has been transformational for the event industry, and it has been an exciting time to see how events will pivot into a bright future. Let’s look back at the year that was by reviewing the most prevalent trends that changed the way we look at events. As ever, CORT Events has been at the forefront of these transformations, helping planners create memorable experiences for attendees.

Let’s review the big three trends that were in the spotlight in 2023 and recall how they shaped  a banner year for the event industry.

In only a few short years we’ve gone from being unable to escape technology to being unable to live without it. The digital and physical worlds continue to merge in unique and exciting ways. No longer just futuristic concepts, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies have become an integral part of many events. 

AR and VR have revolutionized interactivity, leading to immersive experiences that captivate audiences and leave lasting memories well after the event is over. Connectivity is a necessity rather than a luxury at today’s events, so CORT Events features an array of powered products that blend functionality with aesthetic appeal. 

The powered collection by CORT offers a variety of conference tables, high-top tables, chairs, soft seating, and charging stations that all allow people to have access to power at every moment and in every part of the event space. These furniture pieces make the integration of AR, VR, and other experiences seamless throughout the event space. You no longer have to sacrifice aesthetics for connectivity. 

Regarding today’s events, personalization is the key. A successful event comes down to creating unique, personalized experiences that resonate with every attendee. Harnessing data and insights allows you to craft events that cater to the distinct needs of every attendee persona. 

A broad range of furniture and decor choices allows you to drill down to the minutest detail to meet these distinct needs. Personalization allows you to meet the needs of every type of professional, including common persona types like:

• The Learner: This persona is all about gaining knowledge and appreciates comfortable seating, modular desks, and tech accessibility like charging ports. Areas for small group discussions or informational panels appeal to the Learner as well.
• The Leader: This persona looks for spaces that foster collaboration and direction — roundtable setups and presentation areas. High-quality touches of comfort and convenience like ergonomic seating and tech-integrated furniture help them believe that you catered the space to their exact needs.
• The Networker: Creating open spaces with movable furniture, lounge areas, and informal seating areas that encourage conversations help the Networker feel at home and ready to do what he or she does best — make connections.
• The Decision-Maker: A mix of public and private spaces that facilitate discussions are for this persona. High-end furniture with a mix of open lounges and semi-private seating sections will allow the Decision-Maker to shine as a mover and shaker.

CORT Events’ exclusive My Space Planner Tool brings 2D and 3D design to your fingertips, allowing you to craft event spaces that cater to a wide range of attendees. 

The vibrant and lively Viva Magenta was 2023’s color of the year, and this exciting hue was on full display in events throughout the year. Viva Magenta proved versatile as a jumping-off point for design inspiration or as an accent shade for various focal points. 

Shades of Viva Magenta brought life to events across the country through seating options like ottomans such as the Beverly Oasis Large Grouping in Red Fabric and sofas like the Chandler Sofa as well as accents like the Shimmer Pillow in Ruby Red and lights like the LED Accent Light.

Another striking design trend came in rediscovering the capabilities of drapes. Drapery can help create intimate spaces or add a touch of elegance, and you can use them to transform a space. 

On-trend events in 2023 saw a blend of the old and new via the mixing of modern styles with vintage touches and pairing mixed metals for a distinct look. CORT Events’ extensive catalog allows you to keep up with trends through new arrivals.

After an exhilarating year in 2023, what will 2024 bring to the world of events? One thing is for sure: we’ll continue to see the increasing integration of technology. Powered furniture products will continue to offer a sweet spot of connectivity and style for an event space. 

While aesthetics might change and trends may come and go, CORT Events continues to offer an  expansive catalog and innovative solutions that equip you to adapt to the changing trends. In 2024 and beyond, let CORT Events be your partner in crafting events that not only reflect the trends but also look to the future with cutting-edge technology and style.