Designing During COVID-19
COVID-19 has been tough for everyone. We have all had to abruptly adjust to a new normal while navigating how to keep ourselves and each other healthy as restrictions are loosened. Here is some insight into how Shawna Yamamoto Event Design has continued to stay busy while doing our part in keeping our employees and clients safe.
How has SYED acclimated to COVID-19?
SYED has been staying informed of the CDC guidelines throughout the past few months and incorporated them within our workspace. Most of our office staff has been working from home, but we have implemented strict guidelines for our employees to follow while they are working in the studio. Studio employees have to sign off a checklist at the beginning of their shift in which they are confirming they are not experiencing any COVID related symptoms. They also must maintain sanitized hands and social distancing as much as possible throughout their shift. Masks are also mandatory for all employees. These rules and regulations are also enacted for our on-site event staff as well.
How have the logistics of COVID friendly events been changed? Have there been adjusted guest counts, sanitizing, etc.?
Our clients have been practicing strong personal protection and are still maintaining social distancing. Most of our recent events have included smaller guest counts in which most of the guests are close friends and family members who have been around each other for a long time already. We’ve also installed sanitizer dispensers in our trucks and ensure all employees are wearing masks while they are on-site.
What has been the most difficult part of designing during COVID?
Getting supplies and goods! Flower options are limited and ordering online items has been difficult with delayed shipping times and low stocks. Several of our partners have not opened yet or are operating on a skeleton crew, so communication has been a bit strained. This has definitely been a learning curve, but we are all in this together and has only made this industry stronger and more resilient!
Do you see yourself continuing to do Porch Parties or similar events (any new ideas in the works?) post-COVID?
Yes! I hope so!! We continue to acclimate to the new climate and as well as keeping up with design trends, and as long as there is a demand, we would love to continue with our pandemic-friendly events and find even more creative ways to continue celebrating!