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Business 52 June | 2021 manufacturers. Auction websites are selling banquet tables, chairs and other items from either venues or rental companies that have failed. And while it's not known how many of these companies have shut down, their loss can mean fewer options for people hosting events. Heidi Hiller, owner of Innovative Party Planners in Owings Mills, Md., is concerned about the loss of people with lighting and other technical expertise who have found other work during the pandemic. "Many of our suppliers and contractors have downsized their staffs significantly, and it will take some time to re-train and ramp up," she explains. Pent-up Demand for Venues For some businesses in the event industry, however, business has never been better—or busier. "Since the government announced easing of lockdowns, we've received an avalanche of calls and requests for dates and availability," notes Saco Sarkissian, founder of Petals LA, a floral design studio in Glendale, Calif. "It's so refreshing to see people's longing to connect with their loved ones, to gather and to celebrate, especially after what everyone has been through with COVID." Sarkissian says he believes that the challenges to people's mental and emotional well-being brought on by the pandemic can probably be cured only by bringing people together and celebrating. "And the pent-up demand to have events is evidence of that." at demand is sparking more competition in some areas of the country for booking services and venues. Malena Clegg, co-owner of e Gala Downtown in Martinez, Calif., reports, "Everybody's trying to book, and some are having problems. Many venues are already booked through the end of next year. ere's just not enough space for everybody who lost out on their dates and the ones wanting to come in this year, as well." Clegg calls it the "fire-hose effect." Postponed weddings and pent- up demand are signaling more competition in some areas of the country for booking services and venues. In California, for example, that demand is being driven to counties in the state's orange or yellow risk tiers (moderate or minimal restrictions, respectively). Photographer Brandi Rollins, owner of Brandi Rollins Photography in Suisun City, Calif., confirms that many people who are planning weddings or events are unaware that services are getting booked up and that it's often a shock to them. "So far this year, I've booked almost twice the number of clients that I normally book. It's amazing—and surprising," said shares. Rollins' advice for clients? Be decisive, put down a deposit and focus on what's most important. "If you have to pivot, pivot into something that has great volume and beauty," she recommends. "COVID has not taken away human connection and the ability of human connection to transcend Zoom." Floral design by Saco Sarkissian; Petals LA; Glendale, Calif.

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