Creating Immersive Event Experiences with Opus Event Rentals

Sit back, relax, and put on our “Elevate Your Event” podcast to learn a gazillion different ways to host more fun (and more lucrative) fundraising events.

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Episode summary

If you’ve ever wished your fundraiser felt less like a hotel ballroom and more like an immersive, memorable experience, this episode is for you. Jeff Porter sits down with Nezhdeh Parsanj, co-owner of Opus Event Rentals, to talk about how thoughtful design, specialty rentals, creative lighting, and intentional photo moments can reshape any event—no matter the venue.

With 20 years in the industry, Nezhdeh shares how Opus uses elements like glass pool covers, uneven rooftop builds, LED sponsor walls, curated florals, and mission-driven décor to help nonprofits deepen guest engagement and create unforgettable environments. He also offers practical advice for organizations working with limited budgets: focus on one or two meaningful experiences rather than upgrading everything.

Who this episode is for

Nonprofit leaders, development directors, event planners, and anyone looking to elevate the guest experience, increase engagement, and rethink what’s possible with their event spaces.

In this episode (highlights)

How Opus creates specialty rentals beyond tables and chairs, including flooring, glass pool covers, LED cubes, and branded décor
Why unique spaces (like backyards or rooftops) can outperform traditional ballrooms for guest engagement
The power of photo moments—and how they can tie directly into post-event donor follow-up
How to balance creative vision, brand alignment, and budget for maximum impact
Why lighting design is a mission tool, not just an aesthetic choice
Using florals, pillows, giveaways, and small details to reinforce branding
When to invest in flooring under tents (and when grass is okay)
Creative sponsor recognition ideas—like LED cubes and entrance walls
The most memorable features Opus has designed, including walk-on-water photo ops
Practical advice for nonprofits: start by choosing the 1–2 elements guests will remember most

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