Events not only help grow and maintain your relationships, but they also build up your brand. Whether you are planning a networking social hour for clients or a large non-profit gala, it’s easy to lose sight of the big picture and get caught up in the little details. Although important, before you get caught up in the dessert choices, here are 5 important steps you should follow to set yourself up for a SUCCESSFUL event.
Goals
What is the purpose of your event? What are you hoping to accomplish? Your goals should act as a “home base” during the entire planning process of your event.
- Are you hoping to gain business by inviting new prospects?
- Are you wanting to strengthen your business relationships?
- Are you a non-profit looking to raise awareness?
Whatever it may be, setting realistic, objective focused goals will not only keep your team organized and on track during the planning process, but it serves as a constant reminder of the reason you are hosting the event in the first place.
Budget
How much money do you have to spend? Are you trying to raise money? If so, how and how much? Budgeting can be one of the most difficult parts of planning an event. To avoid undermining costs, it is crucial to define your budget before the planning process begins. If your event is aiming to raise money, create milestones to measure your success along the way. This includes being prepared to cut or revise expenses if goals are not being met. Most importantly, remember to stay organized and stick to your budget!
Scope
How many people do you expect to have at your event? Are your guests business partners, donors, investors, clients, or employees? Once your audience is identified, the atmosphere and general feel of the event as a whole will start to fall together. Major aspects like the venue, food, and entertainment should directly resonate and relate to your guests.
Timeline
When deciding on a date, it is advised to avoid holiday weekends, religious holidays, and high-travel vacation months like the middle of the summer and December. But before you commit to a date, make sure you are giving yourself and your team adequate time to plan. Not only will your timeline of to-dos feel less overwhelming, but you will have a better chance of reserving your ideal venue and vendors. This bonus prep time also allows your team to promote and notify guests of the event – ensuring the highest attendance possible!
Resources
Do you have the right people that can plan and execute your event successfully? There is a tremendous amount of work and detail that goes into an event, which can be extremely daunting. That’s where we come in! We help our clients with everything from choosing a theme and selecting a venue to social media promotions and media outreach. Our job is to handle all the nitty gritty details so you can connect with your guests and ENJOY the event!
After your event is over, what’s next? Check out our blog, Event Planning Part 3 of 3: After the Event and read up on some tips on how to leverage your results and increase the overall value of your event!
Planning an event is a large undertaking, but at DGE it’s our passion! Are you in need for some help and guidance on your next event? Contact us today, we would love to talk with you!