The Art of Crafting a One-of-a-Kind Experience
The event business has taught me a great deal about bringing high-quality, impactful entertainment to a diverse range of companies, associations, and organizations. One recurring theme I’ve heard from event planning professionals is the desire for entertainment that’s unique, memorable, compelling, and experience-driven. There’s a constant quest for the extraordinary—something special and inspirational that leaves a lasting impact. That aspiration resonates deeply with me because it’s exactly what we strive to deliver at Songwriter City.
However, we often encounter a common challenge: decision-makers express interest in out-of-the-box experiences, yet hesitate to commit because of a lack of familiarity. It’s the paradox of wanting something original but hesitating to step outside the comfort zone.
Authentic songwriter-in-the-round events don’t easily fit into a familiar, “tried-and-true” entertainment mold. Unlike conventional options that have been done countless times and can be summed up in a soundbite, these events are nuanced and unique—difficult to fully describe until you experience them firsthand. By their very nature, original and specialized concepts aren’t always widely known. But isn’t that part of what makes discovering something new and inspiring so exciting?
If you’re genuinely committed to creating an extraordinary experience for your guests, and considering an unfamiliar entertainment option, here are a few worthwhile steps:
- See it live, if possible. There’s nothing like being in the room and feeling the energy of the audience in real time.
- Seek out testimonials. Talk to past clients about their experience and the lasting impression it made.
- Ask for references. A great entertainment provider will happily offer additional references or testimonials if needed.
- Understand that video only tells part of the story. Experience-driven events often rely on audience interaction and emotional connection—things that can’t be fully captured on film.
There’s always an inherent risk in planning any special event—whether it’s with venue, catering, or logistics. Entertainment is no different, but it’s often the element people remember most, long after the event ends. When it’s exceptional, it leaves a lasting impression.
It’s natural to be cautious when planning something unique, but don’t let fear of the unknown limit your vision. Sometimes, the most memorable and transformative experiences come from stepping into the unfamiliar.
— Mike
