Event planning is an exciting and challenging journey. It can take you to places you never thought you would be, and you can meet people you wouldn't normally meet. It's a demanding job, and it's hard to maintain a work-life balance. But the reward is that you can create an unforgettable experience for your attendees.
Event planners are a special breed of people. They are born with an innate sense of organization and calmness, while also having the ability to thrive under pressure. These qualities help them pull off miracles when it comes to event schedules, budgets, locations, people management and more. When it comes to delivering a flawless event, it makes sense to hire a partner who operates with the same level of excellence and professionalism, and who will take care of every detail to ensure a first-class experience for your guests.
As an event planner, you will be responsible for many aspects of the events you plan. Deadlines, business contacts, contracts, guest lists, menus and entertainment must all be managed by you and your team. This doesn't mean that the hours aren't long or that the work isn't demanding; managing your own deadlines is a vital part of being an event planner. Event planning involves budgeting, setting deadlines, selecting and booking venues, acquiring permits, planning meals, coordinating transportation, developing a theme, organizing activities, selecting speakers and keynotes, organizing equipment and facilities, managing risk and developing contingency plans.
In addition to the pros and cons of being an event planner, it's worth noting that over the course of an event planning career you will experience incredible “pinch me” moments. Successful event planners have developed sensitivity when it comes to venue selection, catering, production, entertainment, gifts, transportation, accommodation and conference services. Let people know that you're interested in event planning and let them know that you'd like to help them plan the next party or event they're going to post. If you want to learn what it's really like to be an event planner in today's world, it's time to talk to the experts.
I love working on events because that's when you can really see the impact your marketing campaign has had before the event; how excited people are; and what they expect most. Events can be an incredible expression of the event manager's personality; there aren't many industries that encourage this personal expression more than ours. Being an event planner isn't just about organizing parties; it's about creating programs that address the purpose, message or impression your client is trying to communicate. You may be one of the most organized and careful event planners out there; but there are still some things that are going to be out of your control.
The best event planners have a cool, calm and serene demeanor in front of customers and behind the scenes. When the economy is low, events are one of the first things to be cut; so planners are laid off and it can be difficult to find work. With more and more events on offer; busier schedules thanks to left right and center engagements; and the constant appeal of Netflix; pajamas; and a bottle of something; it's hard to get people to attend an event. Your customers will have some ideas about what they want for their event; but the event organizer must be ready and willing to participate with lots of creative ideas.
It can also be rewarding to receive recognition from others for what you do; and to realize that many envy your role as an event organizer. Even if you have an administration day on your desk; an event organizer is likely to take on numerous different roles.
If you're interested in learning more about how to become an event planner, click here for our guide on how to plan an event in 10 easy steps.
