Show of hands, anyone else obsessed with the way our favorite pop girlies have kept us well fed in 2024? As a self-identifying queer Latinx individual, I know all too well (get it?) how dynamic acceptance truly is, and we are often on the search for solace and understanding. For me, music has always been a safe space and a welcomed reprieve from the noise and negativity of both our personal and professional lives.
Fortunately for us, the music world has been abuzz with groundbreaking releases from some of the most influential current female music artists of our time. Ariana Grande's ethereal (and my personal favorite) Eternal Sunshine, Taylor Swift's poetic double album surprise, and Beyoncé’s culture-shifting and genre-redefining Cowboy Carter have all left an indelible mark on both the music industry and me as a person and designer. These artists offer a wealth of inspiration that I find have helped in transforming and elevating the special events industry. Here's how their art can inspire, heal, and shape how we work.
1. Ariana Grande: Embracing ethereal elegance
I’m still not well from this album, and don’t think I truly ever will be. However, Ariana Grande’s Eternal Sunshine is a true testament to ethereal beauty and emotional depth. From me yelling “boy bye,” to cry dancing to “We Can’t Be Friends,” the album’s dreamy, introspective soundscapes have inspired me to sit back, relax, and breathe, which has directly translated into my designing through surprising avenues (trust me).
- Soft, ambient lighting: Use gentle warm light to create a calming atmosphere to help find your “eternal sunshine.”
- Intimate spaces: Design areas that promote personal reflection and connection, akin to Grande's introspective lyrics.
- Sensory experiences: It’s all about Zen. Integrate soothing sounds and fragrances that transport guests to a state of ease and calm.
Grande’s ability to channel personal healing into her music serves as a reminder of the power of vulnerability and authenticity in our work. While my personal nature is to go big and bold, that doesn’t necessarily hold true for many folks, especially those who are neurodivergent. Pay special attention to developing experiences that can cater to a diverse audience.
2. Taylor Swift: Storytelling through structure
I know, I know, another article about Taylor Swift, groundbreaking. But hear me out, take out her personal life and just examine her business prowess and you’ll be quite surprised at just how great a salesperson she is. Taylor Swift’s surprise double album not only showcases her evolution as a songwriter, but she completely flipped the script on the structure of songwriting and is experimenting with poetic lyrics and narrative complexity that challenged both the listener and her as the creator. Event planners can draw from Swift’s ability to embrace change.
- Thematic depth: Develop rich, layered themes that unfold throughout the event, much like a (love) story.
- Personalization: Create personalized experiences for guests, making them feel like integral parts of the narrative.
- Creative challenges: Encourage your team to break free from conventional planning structures, exploring new formats and ideas, even if just for a “fortnight.”
Swift’s approach reminds us that challenging the status quo and embracing innovation can lead to profound and memorable experiences.
3. Beyoncé: Shifting culture and celebrating heritage
I mean, need I say more? Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter is a cultural tour de force, period. I can say with 100% certainty that a Beyoncé and Post Malone collaboration was not on my 2024 Bingo card, or that my catchphrase would now be, “This ain’t Texas!” Blending historical references with contemporary sounds, she celebrates Black heritage and identity in a way that resonates deeply with diverse audiences. Despite facing criticism from some in the country music scene, Beyoncé expertly navigated this by collaborating with industry titans like Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson, while also tapping into the talents of newer POC country artists. Event professionals can draw inspiration from this approach by:
- Cultural inclusivity: Design events that celebrate and respect diverse cultures and histories. Empower those communities to have a presence at your event, sharing their culture in a celebratory and prominent way. Don’t believe me? The icon Linda Martell says it best on the track “The Linda Martell Show” that “this particular tune stretches across a range of genres, and that’s what makes it a unique and listening experience.”
- Intergenerational collaboration: Develop a team of planners (or the real dreaded “C” word: “committee”) that includes both seasoned professionals and emerging talents. This blend of experience and fresh perspectives can lead to innovative and immersive event experiences.
- Bold statements: “Jolene” isn’t the only one called out by Bey. Don’t shy away from making powerful yet respectful statements through your event’s design and programming. Use bold themes, messages, and visuals to make your event memorable and impactful.
Beyoncé’s work encourages us to use our platforms to elevate voices, celebrate heritage, and make meaningful cultural contributions. By incorporating these elements, and fostering intergenerational collaboration, event professionals can create experiences that are not only entertaining but also culturally enriching and socially significant.
The recent releases from Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, and Beyoncé are more than just albums—they are blueprints for inspiration, healing, and innovation. By drawing from their artistry, special event professionals can infuse their work with new energy and vision. Whether it’s through ethereal elegance, narrative depth, cultural celebration, or genre-defying creativity, these artists provide a wealth of inspiration to elevate the events we create. Let their music be the soundtrack to your next extraordinary event, shaping it in ways that resonate deeply and linger long after the final note.
