10/18/2026
Let’s Talk About ChatGPT & Event Design for a Moment.
As much as we appreciate technology and the convenience of AI-generated inspiration, I think it’s time we have an honest conversation about its place in the event industry.
ChatGPT is a TOOL, not an event designer.
We absolutely welcome inspiration photos, mood boards, and creative ideas from our clients. However, inspiration is just that…..INSPIRATION. We do not duplicate another designer’s work, nor can we guarantee an exact recreation of an AI-generated image.
Here’s why.
AI can generate beautiful images, but those images don’t always reflect reality. Structures may appear to float without support, signs may be positioned in ways that aren’t physically possible, colors and materials may not actually exist, and entire setups may be generated without consideration for dimensions, installation, safety, or budget.
What looks beautiful on a screen does not always translate into a real-life event.
And respectfully, a luxury-looking design still comes with real-life costs. Florals, custom signage, structures, rentals, materials, labor, and installation are not free simply because AI can generate them in seconds.
As an event designer, my job is not to simply copy and paste an image. My job is to take your vision, apply my creativity, knowledge, experience, and resources, and transform it into something beautiful, functional, and realistic.
It is becoming increasingly frustrating that this conversation even has to make its way into our contracts, but here we are.
Please allow designers to DESIGN. That is why you hire us. Our creativity, professional judgment, and expertise are part of the service you’re investing in.
We love your ideas. We love your inspiration. And we love bringing visions to life.
But let’s remember: AI creates images. Event designers create EXPERIENCES.
Respectfully,
Ten West
