Event Designer vs. Event Decorator: What’s the Difference?

Whether you are planning a wedding, bridal shower, corporate conference or any other event, choosing the right event professionals for your needs makes all the difference in executing your vision. This guide serves to explain what an Event Designer does as it can often be confused with an Event Decorator.

Please note: Jazmine Karess Events offers Event Design services, we are not Event Decorators. By the end of this guide you should feel empowered in your narrowing which professional works best for your event and understanding the difference between the two!

What is an Event Designer?

An event designer is a creative visionary responsible for conceptualizing the entire look and feel of an event. We work closely with clients to understand your vision and theme, then craft a cohesive design plan that aligns with those goals. Here’s a deeper look at what event designers do:

• Concept Development: Event designers begin by understanding the client’s vision, theme, and purpose for the event. They create a detailed concept that reflects the client’s desires and translates them into a tangible experience. For JKE, our Event Design process begins with a consultation and questionnaire.
• Color Schemes and Themes: They select color palettes and themes that resonate with the event’s purpose and the client’s preferences, ensuring everything from the decor to the lighting fits seamlessly together.
• Visual Storytelling: Event Designers are responsible for telling a visual story that captivates guests from the moment they enter the venue. They incorporate elements like floral arrangements, lighting, furniture, and more unique aspects to create an immersive experience.
• Overall Aesthetic: Beyond just decorations, designers focus on the complete visual and sensory experience, including elements like lighting, sound, and layout.
• Vendor Coordination: Event Designers often collaborate with florists, lighting technicians, and other vendors to bring their vision to life. They ensure that each element aligns with the overall theme and aesthetic of the event.

JKE creates a Design Plan, also known as a mood-board, that is approximately a 15-20 page presentation, to explore colors, themes, and design concepts based on the clients input and vision. Once the design concept is locked in, we create a 2D, or 3D renderings with your floor plan if applicable. Here is an example of a 3D Design vs a Real JKE Event! After that we source the vendors for the design concept and provide budget oversight.

The best way to understand an Event Designers role is to think about what an Interior Designer does. These roles are quite similar! An interior designer creates the overall feel and concept for spaces in a home, they do not physically bring or create the couch in the design plan. They source the idea from the Design Plan, look for vendors who have that inventory item or can custom create it, and coordinate the purchase and delivery between the vendor and the client. For Event Designers, this is where things often get confusing for clients and where an event decorator or rental company comes in to place.

What is an Event Decorator?

An Event Decorator focuses specifically on the physical adornments and décor elements of an event. Where an Event Designer’s focus is overall vision and cohesiveness, Event Decorators role is more about execution than concept creation. Here’s what you can expect from an event decorator:

• Rental Items: Decorator’s often have rental items or full inventories and warehouses at their disposal that a client can select from.
• Decoration Setup: Decorators are tasked with setting up the visual elements of an event, such as table settings, centerpieces, backdrops, and other decorative items.
• Execution of Theme: While they may not develop the theme themselves, decorators bring the designer’s vision to life through tangible décor pieces. They ensure that everything is arranged perfectly, creating a visually appealing environment.
• Attention to Detail: Event decorators pay close attention to details, ensuring that every aspect of the decor is polished and perfect, from the placement of candles to the draping of fabrics.
• Budget Management: They often work within a specified budget, sourcing décor items and materials that meet the client’s financial constraints while still delivering an impressive setup.

Key Differences Between Event Designers and Event Decorators

To help clarify the distinction between these two roles, let’s explore some key differences:

Aspect	Event Designer	Event Decorator
Role	Conceptualizes and designs the overall event aesthetic	Focuses on executing the visual elements and decor
Creativity	Emphasizes creativity and originality in design concepts	Implements pre-determined design plans
Scope	Involves planning the entire visual and sensory experience	Concentrates on decor elements like centerpieces and linens
Collaboration	Works with clients and vendors to align all aspects	Provides and focuses on arranging décor items
Project Management	Oversees the entire design process from start to finish	Manages decor setup and breakdown

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Why Choose an Event Designer?

Opt for an event designer if you desire:

• A cohesive theme: Event designers specialize in creating a seamless theme that flows throughout your event.
• Innovative ideas: If you want your event to stand out with unique concepts, an event designer can bring fresh, creative ideas to the table.
• Comprehensive planning: They manage the entire aesthetic experience, ensuring every element contributes to the overall vision.

Why Choose an Event Decorator?

Choose an event decorator if you need:

• Specific décor arrangements: Decorators excel at providing beautiful décor pieces that enhance your event’s ambiance.
• Budget-friendly solutions: If you have a clear idea and budget in mind, a decorator can execute your plan efficiently.
• Setup and Breakdown: For events that require set up and break down of physical elements, decorators will have you covered.

Conclusion

Both event designers and decorators play crucial roles in crafting memorable experiences. The choice between the two depends on your event’s needs and the level of creative input you desire. At Jazmine Karess Events, we offer comprehensive event design services, ensuring your vision comes to life with precision and creativity. If you are planning an event in Washington, DC and surrounding areas, contact us today to start designing your dream event!