Planning any kind of event takes a concerted effort; it can take months of careful thought and organisation, but it’s always worth it when the event goes off without a hitch! If you’re hoping to plan an event, no matter how big or small, it can be difficult to know where to start. From music festivals to sporting tournaments, corporate events and awards ceremonies, there are some top tips to remember when beginning to plan.
Event Planning guide – With that in mind, how to plan an event, we take a look at the top 5 things you need in order to pull off a great event, no matter the occasion.
1. The right venue
Above all else, your event needs to be held in the right venue for it to be a success. The venue really brings the event together perfectly, for instance; a sports tournament needs the right sports facilities while a wedding needs a beautiful spot that can accommodate the guests.
By finding the right venue, you are already heading in the right direction before any other planning happens! When choosing your venue, it’s important to consider all aspects of the event especially hygiene facilities and disabled access.
2. Amazing decorations
At some point in the planning process, you will need to consider what to decorate the venue with, in order to create the right atmosphere and set the theme. One of the most popular decorations that can be used no matter what type of event is a neon sign.
Neon signs are ideal because they can be custom made to your requirements, or you can hire a ready-made one to suit your needs. Hang it in the entranceway to your venue, or in the room itself to create the desired effect.
3. Manageable budget
One of the most important things to consider when planning an event is your budget. You need to set a realistic goal of what you’re hoping to spend inputting your event together and monitor your spending closely to ensure you stay as close to it as possible.
Your budget should include everything from venue hire to the smallest extras; plan it all at the beginning and use it as your guide as you go through. Of course, if something happens unexpectedly to disrupt your budgeting then you should also have a contingency plan.
4. Committee team
Planning an event is a big job; one that needs a team of people all working together to pull it together. You should consider putting together a committee of event planners who can look after the various aspects, whether it’s booking an entertainer or sourcing the decorations.
5. Publicity and marketing
Once you’re confident your event is ready and will go ahead without any problems, you need to advertise it; especially if it’s open to the public or people from a particular industry.
Creating marketing materials, whether that’s through online marketing or traditional flyers and adverts, is a huge way of getting the word out. Using social media could be a very cost-effective way of advertising your event.