5 Event Planning Tips

If there is one thing that I know about events, it is this: They never go as planned. For someone as plan-obsessed as me, you can imagine the horror. In an effort to keep things as on-track as possible and maintain my cool when the unexpected occurs, there are five things I always do when planning an event: 

 1. Create a PLAN
Call it a Banquet Event Order (BEO), call it a timeline, call it a checklist, call it whatever you'd like; just make sure you do it! This is your living, breathing document that contains every single bit of your plan: the WHO, the WHEN, and the HOW for your event. Share it with everyone involved, update it as details evolve throughout the event planning process, and be sure to have a copy of your PLAN with you on the day of your event. 

​2. Exchange Digits
No, I don't mean with the cute bartender (ok, well yes, actually you'll need his or her number, but not for that). I mean with every single vendor involved in your event. Make sure you have their best day-of contact number, and be sure they have yours. That way, when the band is running late, the linens don't show up and the bartender cannot find a place to park and unload - you can get in touch with your contacts and figure out a solution.

3. Confirm EVERYTHING
One week prior to the event, confirm every order you've placed, confirm your vendors (time of arrival and anything else they need from you), confirm with your venue, and most importanlty - confirm all final details with your client. Have your client sign off on a final copy of your PLAN to solidify the details. 

4. Bring Your "Oh Shit Kit"
Scissors, tape, clear nail polish (trust me), band-aids, a cellphone charger, a lighter, snacks, a water bottle, a pair of flats, a paper copy of your PLAN... the list goes on. Never, I repeat, never go to an event without your Oh Shit Kit, and you'll never be stuck at an event saying "oh shit." 

5. Don't Forget About After the Party

No, not the after party. 

There is absolutely nothing worse than working an exceptionally long day, running a successful and smooth event, saying goodnight to your guests, and then realizing everyone has gone home and you are the only one left to clean up. The event strike should be part of your PLAN. Make sure you decide in advance who is responsible for what at the end of the night. Otherwise, it will fall soley on you and that will be a huge damper on an otherwise wonderful event.