Jan Bonhomme
Executive Director
St. Lawrence 1812 Bicentennial Alliance
One of the challenges we find in visiting events, is that the town/city/location does not put out Proper Directional Signage to the event/festival site. I think organizers assume that most folks know their way around the town, however, we are usually “out-of-towners” and we often get lost. I asked Jan what she would suggest to combat this issue, and what has worked for you in the past? Her solution is fantastic! … “I have always believed in the importance of the visitor’s perspective and meeting their needs, so welcoming and directional signage is always a priority! When we opened the Special Events Resource Centre, our signage improved drastically as it doesn’t need to say Pumpkinfest washrooms or gates, it just needs to say Washrooms or Info or Parking etc. All our area events combined their signage – from large structures, to “A” frames, to prong signs and banners and now they are able to sign the whole town and highways leading in with adequate signage to leave a good visitor impression.” My thoughts also reached to the visitors to our festivals/events and I wondered if Jan had ideas about how to “Keep Things Fresh!” Ms. Bonhomme was right to the point here … “By taking what traditionally happens and adding a new spin to it each year. It might be an extra activity, a personal touch or interview, a prize or a souvenir. Take your theme and build on it!” I wanted to share my two-cents with you also on this issue. I believe that “Keeping It Fresh” is important for your volunteers and staff also, they are the key to success, and, if you keep them excited and interested, it too will go a long way in making your festival/event successful!
(To Be Continued)
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