Event planning is not rocket science. It is not a bunch of highly complex formulas while you’re trying to drive a plane. If you want to pull off a successful event or project, it does, however, require planning and preparation like everything else.
Have you ever purchased something at IKEA and had to assemble it? Baked a cake that requires a bit of step by step planning?
Event planning is no different. And, it’s important to note, please don’t skip or gloss over a step. Just like putting that desk together or baking brownies, if you skip a step or gloss over a detail the end result will be affected.
Step One: Brainstorming and Goal-setting
Get your people around you and start brainstorming great ideas and start formulating that vision. Most of you already have a vision and you just need a few folks to solidify your gut. The people you involve in this step are very important as they will be with you during the entire process. They should be key stakeholders in your event – whether it’s staff, volunteers, board members, or others with a vested interest in the event. These individuals will help you navigate the waters throughout the process. They are the ones you can call when you find a wall that you can’t quite scale yourself and they are also among the first to give you the high fives you deserve along the way.
This is also the time when goal setting needs to be a priority. Why are you hosting an event?
What is the purpose the event…raising money, raising awareness, hosting a celebration?
Can you measure your goals?
And, one of my favorites, what is your 3-5 year plan for your event?
Goals are imperative at this stage so decision making can be prioritized and the details of the plan can come together. Without goals, the details about “where” and “what” and even “how” won’t be very effective or efficient.
This is just step one, folks! Buckle up! The fun is just beginning!