Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) Acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Narrm, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and to Elders of all First Nations communities that visit MCEC.

Gala and cocktail dinner at THE LUME Melbourne at MCEC with artwork from Claude Monet and the French Impressionists on display.
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Top Five Tips for Planning a Unique Event

Attempting to plan a glamorous gala? Captivating cocktail party? Scintillating symposium? We’ve compiled a list of our top five tips to help you deliver unique, high-impact events that will stand out for all the right reasons.

1. Space

Choose a unique venue or space and you’re already halfway done! There are some truly awe-inspiring, inventive and beautiful spaces available to hire for events large or small (check out the spectacular mezzanine at THE LUME Melbourne , for example) so there’s no excuse for boring backdrops.

2. Theme

It doesn’t have to be cheesy or naff, but a theme - even a subtle one – can help you pull all your event elements together so they make an impact.

3. Relevance

Try and put yourself in your guests’ shoes and imagine what they’ll want from the event. What’s important to them? What do they enjoy? What’s on their mind? If you approach your event design from your guests’ perspective, you’re far more likely to nail the brief and leave them wanting more.

Three people in foreground drinking champagne on the mezzanine level of THE LUME Melbourne with artwork from Claude Monet and the French Impressionists on display.
4. Entertainment

You don’t need to be working with a Beyonce budget to get Jay-Z cred. Don’t feel restricted to only engage predictable, standard entertainers who are on the event circuit. If the guy who does acoustic covers at your local on Friday nights is amazing, ask him if he’ll play your event. Does the girl who makes your coffee moonlight in a circus troupe or have a knack for stand-up? Fresh talent is everywhere so don’t be afraid to think outside the box.

5. Catering

You don’t have to travel too far back to remember a time when pigs in a blanket and some soggy mini quiche was considered gourmet fare. Thankfully, event catering has come a long way in a short time and talented chefs are turning out some seriously creative and deliciously Instagram-able food and beverages. Choose a venue that takes its catering seriously and don’t be afraid to ask them to design a menu just for you.

Special bonus tip

Let MCEC do it for you! The expert events team at MCEC are across all the latest trends and ideas and we love planning innovative, surprising, creative events. Reach out to our friendly team to chat about your next unforgettable event.