Event planning all starts with a great idea. Maybe it’s a gala with prestigious guests to benefit a local non-profit. Or it’s an all-day music festival with thousands of attendees. You and your team anticipate the day itself with a different kind of excitement than the people who attend it. This is your work, and every move you make behind the scenes has a ripple effect.
However, event planning is one of the most stressful industries to be in. As an event-planner, we would we lost without the hectic logistics and marketing required to execute these extravagant events.
We thrive on this stress. Here is a checklist to keep your head screwed on tight during busy events.
Dont’s
- Don’t rely on event organizers: There are many entry-level employees that are eager to help and contribute, but delegating too much responsible to someone who may be immature runs you the risk of losing control of the event and causing you more stress. Work directly with partners in order to develop awesome events.
- Don’t involve guests in your drama: Something to be aware of is that it is inappropriate to expose your guests to the behind-the-scenes drama of the logistics of event planning in front of your guests. Many event planners problem-solving skills and forget that their guests are there to enjoy themselves.
Do’s
- Assume that everything that can go wrong, will go wrong: Events are people-focused. People change their minds! Therefore, our events and plans surrounding the events change too.
- Streamline your registration process: Long gone are the days of troublesome paper sign-ins and tickets for guests. Invest in easy iPad systems to accelerate entry process and clear the path from crowds.
- Try something new: Don’t forget why you got involved in the industry in the first place – to break ground with your creative energy. Keep sharing your brand and always encourage yourself to learn new things so your style does not become stagnant. Hold your events to new standards instead of doing the same old thing.