How and Why to Plan an Event

(Photo by Richelle Krig -- Please do not use without proper attribution)

Event planning can be a big mystery to many people. Kathy Sluzewski, management supervisor from Northlich, gives three reasons to have an event: to interest the media, to inspire sales and to increase traffic. In order to successfully achieve the above-mentioned, there are a few things you will probably be interested in learning.

Here are several things to keep in mind while planning your event:

1. Make sure everyone involved in the event is aware of why the event is being held.

2. Check and double-check all reservations, appointments and decoration-related details.

3. Remember that keeping the customer happy is a crucial part of the planning process.

4. Keep your target audience in sight.

For some additional tips, click here.

Tom Hagley, professor of public relations at the University of Oregon, gave this tip in his public realtions planning class: "If you are unsure of where to begin planning, imagine you are a guest at the event; then ask yourself what you would want, as a guest, to make the event spectacular. Walk yourself step by step through the event, beginning with the invitation." Make a list as you go through your imaginative process: Check your budget later. At this point, you are solely after a vision for the event.

Once the vision is set, come up with a plan for the planning process complete with your target audience, time line and budget. From the plan, you should be able to create a list of the phone calls you will need to make and deadlines you will need to meet -- remember to continually check on all reservations, appointments and decoration-related details. Lastly, make certain there will be a person on-site the day of the event whose sole purpose is to orchestrate the event.

These tips should give you a running start on your endeavors; happy planning!