Event Planning 101

In order to host a successful event, you first need a game plan. Not games like Wii tennis or X-box 360. A to-do-list of sorts outlining the overall idea and vision. Starting with the 4 Dubs is a great start:

1. What?   What type of little shindig are you planning here...cocktail, graduation, superbowl
2. When?  Nail down a date asap. Venues go quick these days!
3. Where? Depending on your budget, you will need to research theme-appropriate locals
4. Who?    The dreaded guest list...who makes the cut?

Once the key questions are answered, then you need a checklist. Yep one that has small squares and you ever so delicately go checking away one at a time once a task is completed (FYI I live for checklists). Start by writing everything that comes into your head. Examples include booking a place to ordering invitations to what plates to get to how much food to order. Nothing is too insignificant to jot down. After all, if you are thinking it, you should be doing it (err in event planning terms not everyday life my friends ;) ).

Next comes details, details, details. My favorite example of an extreme detailist (made up word by moi...thanks for your concern spell check but I know what's up) is Walt Disney.  The man was a genius.

Every era throughout his theme parks looks, feels, smells, and tastes how it would be if you were living in that time frame. If there were no cars in the 1800's then you will find no cars in that portion. From the cobblestone pavements to the sweet treats served, you are literally in that world. I <3 paying attention to every stinking detail when planning an event...from the postage & address labels to the favors the guests tote home. So from the moment the event enters their life until the time it concludes, they feel the magic.

Allow me to show you a few checklists & detailed examples:

Checklists

Details:

detailed from the start

wedding day details that add a fun element

the final touch