One key component to a successful live event is making your crowd feel comfortable. To give your show attendees a welcoming experience, you’ll want to focus on two things:
- Making sure they can easily and safely get to the venue
- Giving a warm greeting/introduction from stage
First, let’s talk about how to make an introductory announcement before the event.
Announcing From Stage
Start with welcoming everyone and thanking them for being there. Be sure to mention the name of your event if there is one and anything specific you may be celebrating. Next, thank any sponsors of the event if there are any and/or the organization who put on the event. Mention any safety information necessary for the event. At the end of your welcome, be sure to tell attendees what to expect next and thank them one last time for being there.
Here’s a basic example that you can modify for your event:
Hi everyone, welcome to this year’s Welcome Back Concert! Thank you so much to [sponsor name] for sponsoring this event. This wouldn’t be possible without them. Be sure to follow [organization] on socials to stay up to date on future events. In case of an emergency, exits are located at the back of the room. Get hyped because [ARTIST NAME] is onstage next! Thank you all for coming and enjoy the show!
Try to Make the Arrival Process Smooth
The event experience starts long before patrons step foot into your venue or event grounds. It starts when they leave their homes and make their way to the venue. Consider every step of your attendee’s experience. Are they arriving at your event with little trouble or are they already annoyed because they got lost on the way, didn’t know they had to pay for parking, or could not find the event entrance? You want them to arrive at your show in a good mood and excited for the show.
Things to think about to welcome your crowd before they arrive:
- What is the parking experience like?
- Are there explicit directions on where to park?
- Is there info on how much parking costs?
- How early do parking lots open?
- How do attendees get from parking lots or rideshare drop-offs into the venue?
- Where do they enter?
- What is the waiting experience like if doors are not open when people arrive?
- Is the event layout designed to maximize traffic flow and safety?
- Are there directional signs to guide attendees?
- If your event has assigned seating, are there knowledgeable ushers?
- Are restrooms clearly marked and easily accessible?
- Is water readily available?
All of these things will help your crowd feel welcomed to your event and prepared for the awesome things you have planned!
Amber Olson
Account Executive | How To Concerts
Amber's experience began on the programming committee at Cal Poly SLO. She now works directly with our wonderful clients to book and plan out their amazing shows.. Have questions for Amber? Feel free to reach out.
Amber Olson
Account Executive | How To Concerts
Amber's experience began on the programming committee at Cal Poly SLO. She now works directly with our wonderful clients to book and plan out their amazing shows.. Have questions for Amber? Feel free to reach out.
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