You can maximize event accessibility in many ways.

By accommodating everybody, including those with invisible disabilities, you make your events more comfortable, increase your reach, and create a premium environment.

• Planning
• Event design
• Technology

Event planners work magic behind the scenes. They pull everything together to create an exciting, welcoming environment.

Diversity and inclusion work best when they are a part of the planning process. ​

〰PLANNING〰

Are guest accommodations friendly to people with disabilities, including those with ‘hidden’ disabilities? Most U.S. hotels, motels, inns, etc. include accommodations that are ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant. In fact, all accommodations designed or constructed after January 26, 1993 are required to be ADA compliant.

How can you make it easy for your attendees from the start? Provide them with an accessibility statement and point of contact in event announcements and invitations. Include clear instructions on how to request accommodations. You’ll want to clarify deadlines for requests for special accommodations and avoid disappointment or avoid confusion. (Scroll to the end for two examples!)

Share details about lodging and transportation accessibility with out-of-town guests.

〰EVENT DESIGN〰

The best event designs unify and refine your event. You’ll want to make sure that acoustics, lighting, and climate all contribute to making your event as comfortable and inviting as possible–for everyone.

Prioritize details that contribute to guests’ ability to see, hear, and fully participate in your event.

Ideas to help create a supportive environment:

Thoughtful seating arrangements

Unobtrusive decor

Easily available information

Take it a step further and add personalized event entertainment to make sure ALL  your guests can participate. Strolling entertainers make accessibility a breeze for those with mobility impairments–the entertainment comes to you!

〰TECHNOLOGY〰

If you use visual or auxiliary elements (for example a slideshow or speaker), share a list of  additional services, assistive technology, or accommodations that you can provide.

Examples:

●  American Sign Language interpreters

●  CART services (Real time closed-captioning is more accurate than computer generated captions)

●  Visual and auxiliary aids

●  Assistive communication devices