Planning an event can be stressful, there’s no doubt about that, but it doesn’t need to be that way. Taking precautions ahead of time will ensure that your event is planned with the least amount of stress possible.
By planning your event ahead of time, you’ll experience less stress on the day of the event and you and your guests will be sure to have a more enjoyable time.
Here are some fool proof ways you can start planning for your next event, sans stress:
Plan Ahead
The biggest rookie mistake of event planning is waiting too late to start planning. Ideally, you should start your planning at least three months ahead of time.
To begin planning, break down the event into individual tasks and write them down well before the event date. Breaking down the event into small tasks is an effective practice that makes planning more manageable. Writing down everything that has to be done will help you stay organized, empty your head, and allocate tasks. This will help with sticking to your budget, deal with last-minute stress, and even out the work throughout the planning stages, as opposed to all of the tasks hitting you at once.
Hire a Caterer
Leaving the planning up to the professionals can save you a lot of time and stress.How much is your time worth? When deciding on the caterer who is the best fit for you, narrow down your search based on your budget and what type of party you’re hosting. Picking a company that is well versed in the type of event your planning, whether it be a corporate event or a sweet sixteen, will guarantee you get the service you want. A great caterer can also help you with rentals, décor, and finding entertainment. Many vendors know ones who work well and that can fit into your budget.
Another great tip on choosing a caterer is to look at customer reviews. A well-established company will have a decent amount of reviews that speaks to its service.
Ask for Assistance
Asking for assistance is one of the most important tools you have to combat stress. As an event leader it’s your job to allocate roles to make your job easier and to allow the event go off without a hitch. If you have a team helping you plan, allocate roles based on people’s strengths and interests and make sure there’s open communication throughout to make sure there’s no overlap. Be a team leader who can compile all of the work that the team completes, and keep them motivated throughout the process to help alleviate some of your stress.
If planning your event becomes too stressful, remember to ask a friend or loved one for support. Even if it’s just in the form of a listening ear.
Skip Multitasking
It’s proven that those who multitask actually get less done and are less efficient. If you’re trying to multitask you could actually become slower while causing yourself more stress—talk about counterproductive.
Try to remember to complete one task before switching to the next.There is something satisfying about checking off tasks on your list. By working without multitasking, you will be able to get more quality work done. Remember this includes constantly checking your phone or watching television when trying to complete a task.
Take Care of Yourself
When in the midst of event planning it’s easy to put the event and guests first and to forget about taking care of yourself. Make sure to exercise, eat healthy, take breaks and avoid over-consumption of coffee and alcohol. By taking care of your own needs throughout planning your event, you will be able to better meet your guests’ needs and prepare a more successful event. Many people put so much of themselves into the event and do not take time to enjoy it themselves. Take the time to care for yourself and enjoy the day.
Have a Backup Plan
Things sometime go wrong. Sound systems can crash, entertainment can drop out, and food can run out. Make sure you always have a backup option in case things justdon’t pan out as planned.
If you’re planning an event that involves marketing, make sure you promote ticket sales on multiple platforms to make sure the word gets out. Have a back-up stereo in case the sound system crashes. Have some extra cases of beer in the back. In other words, don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Also remember, some things just happen and you need to be okay with rolling with the punches.
