The 5 secrets behind red carpet events

Planning red carpet events often comes with an extra level of stress.

When working with VIPs and celebrities, the job of an event organizer can end up seeming like a very precarious balancing act: trying to keep things orderly, flowing and on time. We know it can be challenging, so here is some advice to keep in mind.

1. Make two separate lines

Keeping the red carpet clear is key. Make a separate line for non-VIPs to go directly into the main event. This way photographers and media can get the shots they need, and you won't have blockages at the entrance .

2. Tell photographers where to stand

Don't be afraid to be clear and direct and assign each individual photographer a spot to stand in. Things can get pretty hectic when cameras are flashing on the red carpet, and it's better for everyone involved to know where they are supposed to be. Leave no room for uncertainty!

3. Have someone take the lead at your event

Whether it's you or a trusted colleague, ensure that the person in charge will lead the red carpet process effectively. Someone should always be directing traffic and encouraging continuous movement, and this person should be courteous but firm.

4. Use name cards for red carpet arrivals

Rather than having someone shout out the celebrities' names as they walk by, have someone walk in front of them with a large name card. This way photographers and other press not only know who is coming next, but can also easily take pictures of the cards and use them as reminders of who was who later.

5. Be prepared to wait

As with most things that involve dealing with celebrities and VIPs, you unfortunately can never be sure if they're going to be on time. So last but not least, try to find press who are patient and used to waiting for VIP guests.

FAQs

New to the world of red carpet events? Here we answer some Frequently Asked Questions to help you get started.

What is a red carpet event?

A red carpet event is a special occasion where celebrities, VIPs, industry professionals and other influential guests walk down a red carpet before entering the venue for the main event. The high-profile, invite-only gathering might be an awards ceremony, movie premiere, or gala.

What are the most famous red carpet events?

The Oscars, Cannes Film Festival, Met Gala, Golden Globe Awards, Grammy Awards, and Emmy Awards attract worldwide attention and are known for their star-studded guest lists. And red carpets aren’t limited to the fashion and entertainment industries: high-profile sports events and charity fundraisers also feature them. 

What to wear to a red carpet event?

Glamorous red carpet events are the source of many iconic fashion moments, and the perfect opportunity for guests to showcase their style and gain exposure. Depending on the red carpet event dress code, guests will often be formally attired in suits or tuxedos for men and gowns for women.

How to cover red carpet events?

Red carpet coverage is highly curated, with publicists and organizers coordinating arrivals and ensuring that the right guests are present to generate buzz. Reporters, photographers and camera crews will also be on-site to capture arrivals, conduct interviews, and gather information for news or entertainment coverage.

In such a chaotic and fast-paced environment, it’s important to have trusted media outlets like zkipster’s partner BFA on hand. BFA is a global leader in the event photography, videography and social media services business, and specializes in red carpet events.

What is the best red carpet software?

zkipster is the red carpet software used and trusted by many of the world's most iconic special events. 

It has all the features you need to manage a special event, including online invitations, guest lists, event check-in, and post-event reporting. Sign up for a free test drive account here.

We hope these tips help you at your next red carpet event - happy planning!

Header image: Janelle Monáe on the red carpet at the 2022 Met Gala. Photo by Darian DiCianno / BFA.com ⓒ BFA