Macomb County Caterer Gives Tips - Event Planning Checklists

Macomb County Caterer Gives Tips – Event Planning Checklists

Planning any event, from a small luncheon gathering to the grandest of weddings, can be unbelievably stressful for all of those involved. With so many variables and timelines to consider, it can be daunting even to simply decide where to begin. The most useful strategy in event planning is to make checklists. These double as a means of seeing where you’re going and where you’ve been, and by making detailed lists and adhering to them, your event is sure to be a success.

The first step in creating a checklist is simple: dive in. Starting with the most broad, basic tasks that have to be accomplished is the most beneficial way to begin. Don’t get overwhelmed with the details just yet! First, determine the goals for your event; for example, the goals of a graduation party could include bringing together family, ensuring that the venue appeals to both younger and older guests, and celebrating the graduate. Once these goals have been laid out, the broad checklist items can be settled on. They will almost always include deciding on a date, a venue, acquiring cost estimates and setting up a budget, recruiting help for both the planning stages and the event itself. Every event is different, but these items all belong on a high-level checklist and should be completed in the early stages of planning. Because they are broad, they are likely to have multiple subsections; for example, creating a budget involves researching venues, catering, music, tables and chairs, decorating, and deciding on an approximate number of guests.

The mid-level checklist is where the subsections of the broad items come further into play. If travel is involved, these plans should be addressed, along with specific financial and logistic concerns. In this stage, menus should be finalized, all reservations should be made, and any signage, invitations, permits, and licenses should be acquired and handled appropriately. This is also when social media can be of service: create publicity for your event by making Facebook invitations or an event Instagram account! Websites for your event, especially for weddings, are highly useful in managing RSVPs and disseminating more information or photos to your guests.

The final checklist for your event will be the most detailed. Here is where all loose ends are tied up, but if you have followed your previous lists you will be amazed at how simple this list is to compile. Floral decorations should be finalized, equipment rental should be confirmed, and instructions should be given to any people who have volunteered to help. The most important thing to remember in this stage of planning is that checklists are just as variable as everything else in the planning of the event. You may have to prioritize more extensively, and you should always allow for there to be bumps in the road along the way. The overarching item on this list: don’t panic.

Checklists are an invaluable tool in event planning, no matter how big or small the special day will be. As with anything, procrastination is not ideal. The earlier you begin your list-making and planning, the less you will have to worry about at crunch time!