The Art of the Entrance: 7 Creative Ways NYC Planners Set the Scene
There’s nothing more exciting than rolling up to an event and seeing an impressive and creative grand entrance. All of the promise of an amazing night is just bursting at the seams, waiting for you to enter. Whether for a corporate, charity, or personal event, the art of the entrance gives your guests their first impression of the event, and it needs to wow, especially in the Big Apple, where the city never sleeps.
With that in mind, here are seven creative ways NYC event planners are setting the scene for your next event.
1. Red carpet
Timeless, classic, and always dramatic, a red carpet says, this an elevated event. For a fresh spin on the classic, get a custom-designed red carpet. Personalize it with the theme from your event, or with names, initials, and the date. A red carpet makes all guests instantly feel like a VIP.
2. Lighting
For a show-stopping entrance, consider using special lighting, such as spotlights, to make your guests feel center stage. Perfectly placed up-lights, lit to match the color of your event, will elevate your entrance. For a softer lighting option, use pillar candles in beautiful holders or vases to line the entrance and set the scene.
3. Special Effects
Think outside of the box to include a smoke or fog machine, cold sparks machine, and confetti blowers for a creative entrance. If these types of special effects aren’t what you have in mind, consider some lighting special effects, such as a strobe light, lasers, or custom projected visuals.
4. Offer Bubbly
Nothing entices guests more to enter your event than a glass of champagne or curated cocktails. Station servers at the entrance to hand out sparkling flutes and coupes, or display shelving with glasses already filled for guests to grab as they arrive. Once guests have a beverage, they’ll be ready to head inside to party. It also sets the stage for a timely toast to welcome everyone to the event.
5. Performers
Place performers near the entrance of the event for a creative way to set the scene. Musicians can add an elegant ambiance to sophisticated events. If you’re looking for a more energetic vibe, book an exciting DJ instead. For more lively events, consider performers like acrobats and aerialists, think Cirque du Soleil, or magicians to carry the atmosphere from inside to the front door. Event entertainment is always a big deal.
Not sure what to book? Here are seven of the most in-demand performers in NYC that are perfect for your event.
6. Photo Ops
If awards shows and movie premieres have taught us anything, it's that people love a photo opp at the start - and all throughout - an event. Design a paparazzi-style entrance moment with an eye-catching background, photographers ready to capture guests as they arrive, making every guest feel like a celebrity. For a more personal touch, consider hiring a live artist to draw or paint a portrait of each guest as they arrive.
7. Tunnels
Nothing feels more immersive and exciting than a tunnel or massive archway leading the way into an event. Hang custom-made artwork, signs, or on-theme elements on the ceiling and walls of the venue to welcome guests. Consider digital screens displaying live counts of fundraising dollars for a charity gala, or continuous custom artwork that displays facts about a corporation in an eye-catching way. For a softer approach, consider installing an archway of overflowing florals or live plants to create an enchanted forest feel for a truly creative entrance.
In NYC, where events are more like "Broadway shows", a creative grand entrance to your event will set the scene and the tone and impress at first glance. Whether a corporate, charity, or personal milestone event, you will need elite planners to design a show-stopping event and handle event-day logistics.
Get More Inspo About Event Trends At The Event Planner Expo 2026
If you want to learn how elite planners are setting the trends, expanding their networks, and landing high-end clientele, start the countdown for The Event Planner Expo 2026. You won’t want to miss out on what’s coming next year! Tickets are already available to lock in!
