Tips for you as the planner.  People like to feel like they are part of a big crowd.  You want to have people close together..bumper- to- bumper so to speak.  For my last event, I had a champagne and chocolate bar for VIPs in a little area outside of the main room and the hosted bar.  Well good grief,  it was ridiculous how people just crammed into that little space.  But I do have to say, it looked fun because of all the people and the fun and excitement it created. 

So, if you plan for 500, set your area inside for 75 less and put your tables and chairs close together to create intimacy.  People like to know they are having a "happening" time.  The other thing, make sure the room is not too cold..not too warm...not too bright...not too dark.  I like to think back to my college days when we would go to parties.  We rated those parties that looked like lots of people were there very high.  You want to go where "everyone" goes... Now why is that?

Go Figure
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