"Cheap and crappy glow necklaces and other junk for people to wear at parties.”
Chris Drury, president/chief creative officer, Drury Design Dynamics, New York
“Hors d’oeuvres served on spoons, or in another unique container. Inevitably the waiter leaves and you are left holding the spoon.”
Patti Humphrey, director of special events, Washington National Opera
“Logos on the front of bars. Come on, people—get that brand in the air. People will be standing in front of the bar and you won’t see it. It’s just a waste of money.”
Stacey Barabe, president, Exhilarate L.L.C., Orlando
"Specialty drinks that match the dress and the tablecloth. Drinks should be paired with food.”
Carla Ruben, president, Creative Edge Parties, New York
“Greenwashing or insincere, ignorant, and even fraudulent attempts at greening. Similarly wretched is the overuse, misuse, and misunderstanding of the word sustainability in marketing communications.”
Louise M. Felsher, director of marketing and events, Treasure Island Wines, San Francisco
“E-vites. While they are green and I am very green-minded it takes away from the exclusivity factor and personal touch that comes with receiving an invite in the mail. It is traditional—one reason people haven’t moved away from it for gala-style events.”
Alexis Knapp, principal, Treskoi PR, Miami and Orlando
"Virtual events, such as trade shows, conferences, etc. Yes, technology is a wonderful thing, but personal interaction is lost, which is, after all, one of the main objectives of event execution.”
Mayra Lugo, owner, Guayoyo Events, Toronto
“B-list, five-minute celebs.”
Alison Gross, vice president, global head of events, Willis Group, New York
