The Mariah Method: Before & After
The Mariah Method is a series where I’ll be exploring relatable examples of how people actually experience communication in everyday life.
Through before & after examples, writing dos and don’ts, messaging breakdowns, and real-world communication observations, I’ll be sharing thoughts on clarity, usability, tone, writing tips and tricks, and the small details that make information feel easier, clearer, and more engaging for people to absorb.
Before
Before visiting the ballpark, guests are encouraged to review all stadium policies and procedures prior to arrival. Gates open 90 minutes before first pitch; however, gate opening times may vary for select games and special events. All tickets are mobile entry only and screenshots will not be accepted under any circumstances. Re-entry is not permitted after ticket scan. Guests are reminded that bag policies will be strictly enforced and only single compartment clear bags no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”, small clutches no larger than 5” x 7”, and medically necessary bags following inspection procedures will be permitted into the stadium. Backpacks, oversized totes, and coolers are prohibited. Outside food is permitted in single-serving quantities only; however, outside beverages, including alcohol are prohibited with the exception of one factory-sealed plastic water bottle per guest.
In the event of inclement weather including lightning, heavy rain, hail, extreme wind, or other unsafe conditions, game delays, postponements, evacuations, or cancellations may occur and all updates will be communicated through the stadium app and social media outlets through the ballpark. Refunds or exchanges will only be issued in accordance with official rainout and cancellation policies and are not guaranteed for delayed or interrupted games after first pitch has occurred. Guests are encouraged to regularly monitor weather conditions and venue communications prior to and during attendance at events.
Guests utilizing rideshare services should expect adjusted pickup locations following the conclusion of the game due to postgame traffic control measures. Parking availability may vary depending on arrival time and lot capacity and guests are strongly encouraged to arrive early during peak attendance games and special events. Please also be advised that the stadium is a cashless venue and only debit cards, credit cards, and approved mobile payment methods including Apple Pay and Google Pay will be accepted at concession stands and retail locations throughout the ballpark. Guests are encouraged to monitor the venue website and app regularly for policy updates, prohibited item changes, parking adjustments, weather notifications, gate opening schedules, promotional event details, and additional health and safety guidelines prior to attending events at the stadium.
After
General Information and Ballpark Policies
Entry & Tickets
Gates open 90 minutes before first pitch
Note: Gate opening times may vary for select and special games
Mobile tickets are required (screenshots will not work)
Important: Re-entry is not permitted after ticket scan
Bag Policy
Allowed:
Single compartment clear bags no larger than 12'“ x 6” x 12”
Small clutches no larger than 5” by 7”
Medically necessary bags
Not Allowed:
Backpacks
Oversized totes
Coolers
Outside Food and Drink Policy
Outside food is permitted in single-serving quantities only; however, outside beverages, including alcohol are prohibited with the exception of one factory-sealed plastic water bottle per guest.
Payments
The venue is cashless.
Accepted payment methods include:
Credit/debt cards
Apple Pay
Google Pay
Parking & Arrival Tips
Parking availability may vary depending on arrival time and attendance
Arriving early is strongly encouraged for larger games and special events
Rideshare pickup locations may change after the game due to traffic flow adjustments
Weather/Refund Policy
Games may be delayed, postponed or canceled due to severe weather including lightning, heaving rain, hail, or unsafe field conditions.
Weather updates will be shared through:
The stadium app
Social media outlets
Important:
Refunds or exchanges are not guaranteed for delayed or interrupted games after first pitch
Weather decisions are made at the discretion of venue officials and event staff
Why This Works Better
The original version does contain all necessary information, but important details compete for attention and is jumbled together inside several dense, overwhelming paragraphs.
For attendees, event communication is usually skimmed over quickly under stress:
While getting ready
Driving to the event
Checking tickets in line
Searching for parking
The rewrite improves visual usability by:
Grouping related information together
Making policies easier to identify and scan quickly
Reducing brain overload
Good communication doesn’t just provide information, it helps people feel confident navigating an experience.