| Throwing a party or hosting an event may sound like | | | | first identify the purpose of the event and align it |
| an easy job but careful planning is required to ensure | | | | with a specific marketing objective. You should have |
| that your event is a success. Business owners | | | | a "crystal clear" vision of the event in your head. The |
| especially need to maximize their dollars when hosting | | | | next step is to define your target audience. Consider |
| an event. It is advised that you consider hiring the | | | | what their interests are when selecting music, food, |
| professional services of an event planner. An event | | | | themes and invitations and be mindful of special |
| planner has expertise and knowledge in event | | | | dietary requirements or seating accommodations. |
| planning and management and often can negotiate on | | | | Take full advantage of your event by utilizing |
| your behalf with vendors such as caterers, | | | | signage, press releases, photos, guest books or |
| photographers and florists to obtain a less expensive | | | | advertising to promote your event. Be sure and invite |
| price since they have established relationships with | | | | as many customers as possible and be prepared for |
| the vendors. | | | | extra guests who failed to RSVP. If you have a |
| You may think that hiring an event planner is an | | | | limited budget, you may want to partner with |
| added expense but consider this: an event planner | | | | another business or ask for donations from area |
| can relieve the stress of event planning by handling | | | | businesses. |
| everything from the event conception to the | | | | Remember, your image should be conveyed at each |
| execution. Imagine what you could do with the time | | | | step in the event planning process. Special events |
| you save in making phone calls, freeing up your staff, | | | | offer potential for future business, contracts and |
| researching prices, picking up items, faxing | | | | publicity. Understanding what you want to gain and |
| information, setting up tables, greeting guests, etc. | | | | how your event can help your objective will help |
| Since your company's reputation may be at stake, it | | | | determine the frequency of your events and the |
| is critical that you select an event planner you can | | | | budget you should allot to such events. Events can |
| trust. Ask for references or ask to see photos from | | | | double as a marketing tool if executed correctly. |
| their event portfolio. | | | | Last but not least, have fun! Your tone and attitude |
| If you decide to take on this heavy task yourself, | | | | will set the mood for the entire event. |