VIP
The term “VIP” stands for “very important person” and is used to describe an important guest(s) or a special area where those guests can expect to receive special attention or different privileges from the other guests at an event. Guests denoted as VIP can be:
- Presidents or other executives of a company
- Sponsors of the event
- Family Members
- Celebrities
- Guest speakers
- Entertainers
The general public tends to equate the term VIP with an elitist attitude, making the VIP section difficult to control at a big event because everyone wants to be included. The location and presence of VIP areas aren’t usually broadcasted but because VIP guests are able to skip lines and do receive special attention other people notice. VIP guests are usually escorted to a comfortable, private area where they can interact amongst themselves yet interact with the rest of the guests at their leisure.
The VIP area is usually sectioned off and monitored by a bouncer whose job it is to remember who is supposed to be in the VIP section and who is not, although VIP guests can escort others in if they so choose. If there isn’t a list of expected VIP guests at an event then event coordinators might distribute wristbands or another item for VIP guests to distinguish themselves as such. These items give the guest full access to every aspect of the VIP set up and ensure they will not have a problem with security. It is important that all security personnel are fully briefed on the VIP procedures as VIP doesn’t work if everyone isn’t on the same page.
Usually the guests in VIP have their own food items, drink items and are serviced personally by their own wait staff. They might even receive gift bags and other free items from the host. VIP areas are maintained at big events for security and safety, as in the case of celebrity guests and out of respect. The president or other executives of a company should have immediate access to food and drinks without waiting in long lines or risk not being served at all. Celebrities should be able to enjoy the event without being mobbed for autographs. VIP areas are maintained in order to ensure that guests are comfortable and have the best time they can possible have without any hassle
