Choosing customised water for an event often seems like a simple decision. However, in practice, it is one of the areas where most mistakes occur and where the impact on logistics, attendee experience and brand perception is greatest. Treating water as a secondary element or resolving it quickly can lead to issues that affect the overall success of the event.
In the article “A Customised Water Format for Every Event” we explained why not all events require the same format. In this post, we take a closer look at the most common mistakes when choosing customised water for events and how to avoid them in order to achieve a truly effective solution.
Why choosing the wrong water format affects the event
Water is one of the few products consumed by all attendees. It is present on tables, stands, meeting rooms and common areas. For this reason, a poor choice of format rarely goes unnoticed.
An unsuitable format can create distribution difficulties, cluttered spaces, storage issues or an unprofessional image. It also represents a missed opportunity to reinforce brand visibility in a natural and coherent way throughout the event.
Choosing the right customised water for events may seem like a small decision, but it has a direct impact on how the event is perceived as a whole.
Mistake 1: Choosing the format based only on price
One of the most common mistakes is basing the decision solely on unit price. While budget is an important factor, it should not be the only one.
A format that appears more economical can generate indirect costs: increased waste, logistical complications, the need for more frequent restocking or a poorly curated image. In corporate events, trade fairs or brand presentations, these factors directly influence the attendee experience.
Price should always be assessed in relation to the type of event, operational requirements and brand perception, rather than in isolation.
Mistake 2: Using the same water format for all events
There is no universal format that works equally well in every context. Nevertheless, it is common to rely on the same solution repeatedly for reasons of convenience or habit.
Trade fairs, conferences, internal meetings and promotional actions all have very different dynamics. Using the same customised water format in every situation often leads to inefficiencies or operational mismatches.
As explained in the article “A Customised Water Format for Every Event”, adapting the format to the type of event is essential for water to fulfil its role effectively and coherently.
Mistake 3: Not considering the type of attendee
Attendee behaviour has a direct influence on the choice of format. A seated audience attending long sessions is very different from attendees who move constantly between spaces.
At events with high mobility, formats should be lightweight, easy to carry and comfortable to use. In more static environments, the format can be better integrated into tables or fixed areas.
Ignoring this factor often results in formats that are uncomfortable, impractical or that create disorder during the event.
Mistake 4: Ignoring logistics and available space
Logistics is one of the most underestimated factors when choosing customised water for events. Storage, transport, restocking and available space all play a key role in the success of the chosen format.
At trade fairs and stands with limited space, bulky formats can create storage issues. At high-turnover events, slow restocking can lead to shortages at critical moments.
Selecting the right format from a logistical perspective simplifies operations and reduces unforeseen issues during the event.
Mistake 5: Not aligning the format with the brand image
Customised water is also a branding support. Using a format that does not match the visual identity or positioning of the event can break overall coherence.
This is particularly important at premium corporate events, institutional presentations or high-level brand actions. A format that is too basic or poorly customised can convey a careless image, regardless of how well the rest of the event is executed.
Customisation should be aligned with the brand image and the type of event in order to reinforce perceptions of quality and professionalism.
Mistake 6: Treating water as a secondary element
Another common mistake is treating water as a simple add-on rather than as part of the attendee experience. Water accompanies attendees throughout a large part of the event and creates multiple points of contact with the brand.
When properly planned, customised water enhances the experience in a subtle and effective way. When improvised, it becomes an element that detracts value instead of adding it.
The difference between “providing water” and planning water is key to improving the overall perception of the event.
How to avoid these mistakes when choosing customised water for events
Avoiding these mistakes requires analysing the event as a whole before making decisions. It is essential to consider the type of event, attendee profile, available space and the brand’s communication objectives.
Thinking about the attendee journey, operational flow and visual coherence helps identify the most suitable format. Working with specialised advisors allows potential issues to be anticipated and solutions tailored to each context.
Planning customised water as an integral part of the event is the most effective way to ensure a successful outcome.
A small decision with a big impact
Choosing customised water for events is not a minor decision. Mistakes in this area affect logistics, attendee experience and brand image. On the other hand, making the right choice simplifies operations and strengthens the professional perception of the event.
Analysing the context and avoiding standard, one-size-fits-all solutions allows the full potential of customised water to be leveraged as both a functional and branding element.
Do you want to avoid mistakes when choosing customised water for your event? Discover all our customised water solutions for events at thebrandcompany.net or contact us at info@thebrandcompany.net.
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