Smart Steps to a Successful Event

Step One: Plan it out. Instead of sending you and everyone else scrambling for ideas and answers, start with a plan. Delegate responsibilities so that you don’t have more than one person handling one aspect. This prevents getting two or more forms of information or worse, misinformation.
Step Two: Find a venue. Patiently. Yes, it is tiring trying to find the perfect place for your perfect event, but the end result really is whether or not you were absolutely happy with the location of your event. Before you hit the streets, do your research. The internet is a wonderful thing. Many venues show their facilities on line. Point click and pick carefully

Step Three: the initial planning should have included the menu, but it’s simple really, if it’s a sit down, very formal, it’s best to go with a reputable caterer. Cutting corners on food could mean cutting out more guest at your next event. If it’s causal find a caterer that specializes in finger foods that are easy to handle and eat without spilling all over the place. Who wants a guest with a big blotch on their clothing from your caterer?

Drinks on me: An open bar is always welcome however; if you are not covering the drinks, create a simple yet elegant drink menu so that the guest won’t badger the mixologist for prices. Your best bet: open bar with a tip jar. Keep the drinks simple and neat by again providing a short menu. Keep the drinks simple and flowing.

Step Four: Entertainment. You can never go wrong with a nice jazz trio. However, you can go wrong with a loud party band. Choose your entertainment wisely. Consider your crowd and their temperament.  If it’s an all-out party, a party band is exactly what you want. However, at more low-key networking functions, perhaps simple upbeat background music is more suitable for your event.

Step Five: Say thank you. One way to thank guests is to send them home with a party favor. Again you must consider your guest before you act. Friends and family will appreciate your whimsy when sharing a special little something to take away. More upscale events require extra consideration. Networking events “swag” should be business oriented. A small business card holder or a nice pen with usable not decorative or too feminine.
Event planning too over-whelming? Just remember, Odyssey Concierge is your life, our event, simplified.