From Glam to Bam: How to Make a Red Carpet That Steals the Show
If you’ve ever attended an event with a Step & Repeat (that’s the fancy name for the red carpet backdrop with logos, in case you skipped your Event Planning 101 class), you know it’s the unofficial paparazzi hotspot. Think Oscars — but with slightly fewer A-listers and a lot more networking badges.
A Red Carpet or Step & Repeat is more than just a backdrop — it’s prime real estate for sponsor logos and a guaranteed crowd magnet. Everyone loves a photo-op, and if your logo happens to photobomb 200 social media posts that night? You just nailed the easiest branding win ever.
The Basics
Pro tip: keep it classy with no more than five logos. Any more, and the logos shrink to the size of a postage stamp — definitely not your sponsors’ dream.
Space matters. Photographers need about 8 feet between themselves and the glam squad in front of the backdrop. Make sure there’s enough room so no one’s tripping over a cocktail table trying to capture the perfect shot.
Backdrop size. 8 feet by 8 feet fits up to four people comfortably. Got a basketball team or a group of giants? Go 10 feet tall or wide.
Lighting is everything. Ask your photographer about venue lighting. A dim red carpet is basically a game of "Guess Who?" nobody wins.
Matte finish only. Shiny backdrops cause glare that turns smiles into ghostly blobs. Unless your theme is “haunted gala,” go matte.
Now, let’s talk upgrades — because you know you want to zhuzh it up.
Large Mural
Hire an artist to paint an 8’x8’ masterpiece. Imagine your sponsors’ logos subtly placed on skyscrapers, billboards, or café awnings. It’s part art, part sponsorship, all wow factor.
Hedge Wall with Logos
Got a lush wall of greenery? Turn it into your branded paradise. If not, rent faux hedges (4’x8’ sections) and layer your logos like the classy florist you never knew you were.
Wall of Repurposed Frames
Ambitious? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely—rental companies can provide the wall. You just need to find the frames, paint them (if needed), add the logo and hang. Reinforce the structure and maybe add a “Please Don’t Touch” sign for good measure.
Embellished Standard Backdrop
Add flair with florals, plants, wine barrels, vines, or fabric frames to give the backdrop depth. Think of it as dressing up your Step & Repeat for a night out.
Some more ideas:
Bookcase or Shelving Unit. Perfect for library-themed events or anything needing a “smart chic” vibe. Hide logos among open books, frames, or stylish knick-knacks and watch guests pretend to “discover” them like they’re on a design treasure hunt.
Balloons with Printed Logos. Floating logos! Who wouldn’t love that? Just make sure they can handle the heat from stage lighting unless you enjoy the excitement of spontaneous balloon pop concerts.
Final Thoughts
These are just a few ways to zhuzh up your Red Carpet or Step & Repeat so it feels less “corporate banner” and more “mini Hollywood moment.” Remember — your backdrop sets the tone before guests even get to the bar, so make it sparkle (figuratively, not literally — no glare, remember?).
If people are lining up for photos like it’s Disneyland, you’ve nailed it. If they’re using the backdrop as a shortcut to the restroom, maybe revisit your design choices. Either way, your logo’s in the background, so… still a win.