The Stage was Set

One of the many responsibilities given to me for the 75th year celebrations was the stage décor. When Ms. Uma Lakshmi from HR asked me if I could take up the responsibility, I gave a spontaneous YES! But I was totally unaware of what I was expected to do.  I did not know whom to contact, etc.

I work online from Trichy and I came to BM on 4^th March, as I had promised Maya ma, to give a helping hand for the BM 75 celebrations. That day Uma gave me a couple of contacts for the flower décor, and I started my planning. I spoke to both the vendors , and based on the replies, selected one, and got quotations for the work,  along with some sample photos from his earlier works.

Discussions were held with Uma and Leela mam, on the area of the stage (I had not seen the venue at all), requirements, colours, etc., and after finalising details, I gave the order for the décor. We had decided to have an arrangement of chrysanthemums and gerberas – in white and yellow, and green for the background. The décor list was – one podium arrangement, one garden arrangement (front elevation of the stage) and one centre table arrangement.

I had never done this flower décor work before.  I was very sceptical and kept calling the flower decorator many times. There were many things to be tied up – he wanted the venue hall to be handed over to him on 9th night (the previous day of the programme), for him to comfortably do the work. But the Seva Sadan authorities refused to give the hall the previous day, and said the hall would be available for décor only by 06.00 am on 10th March. Now, the florist was agitated, and I had to convince him to start by 06.00 am and complete the work by 09.00 am latest, on 10th morning, so that further cleaning could be done. I had to tie up with the venue and gate in-charge of Seva Sadan.

I got his number, shared it with the florist, and had to make sure the gates were open for the florist to start his work. I was so worried about the completion of the work to satisfaction and called the florist so many times, that at one point, he got irritated with me! The florist was convinced finally, was given an advance payment, and when I reached the venue by 08.00 am on 10th March, 70% of the décor was already done. The florist was also happy with the work, and I convinced him at the last moment to make one more extra centre table arrangement (for the second table), which he executed well.

My prayers were answered, the stage for the D-day was set, and the overall work was very aesthetic and neat. The florist was happy and even gave a bunch of pink gerberas free of cost, for use during the function.  After their performances, the children backstage, were thrilled when they were given the flowers to keep.

Though it was my first attempt in handling such responsibility, I had faith in the Almighty and believed that all would surely go well for our institution. I am happy the institution reposed faith in my abilities. With this experience, I am more familiar with what needs to be done, if I am given this opportunity again.