Post TWO!

Hey All! 

   Welcome back to Only In My Dreams Events blog page! Today we'll go over the initial tips for planning your own small event. The following are what we consider the top four criteria for planning a successful event:

1) Develop your events' end goals and consider what you want to accomplish by throwing this bash! Why am I throwing this event?

If you're working with an organization or one person in particular, know what their key goals are. This way, you're able to ensure that your event is optimized for success! 

2) Organize a team of vendors that you trust. GET. THAT. CONTRACT.

   Have you been to an event before where you were stunned by the food? Amazed by the service? Had the best DJ imaginable? And everything seemed to go off with out a hitch? Contact those vendors and see what they can offer you. If they fit your budget and make sense with your event, sign a law binding contract that keeps the vendor and yourself accountable. 

3) Create a budget. Make sure you're comfortable. And STICK WITH IT!

   This may be the most important part of planning your event. Making a healthy budget that keeps you and your wallet happy will almost always make for a great end result. Remember to think about the following:

  • Venue: Where will you be holding the event? Can this space handle your needs?

  • Food and Drink: Make sure the refreshments match the overall vibe of your party.

  • Entertainment: DJ? Band? Speakers? Dancers (if ya nasty)?

  • Décor: Choose decor that matches your theme!

  • AV: Audio/ Visual. Wifi, projectors, speakers

4) Set a Date! Give yourself time to plan and your guests, time to plan on attending.

   Ideally, give yourself five to six months of planning time. This way you wont be too stressed, and your vendors will have plenty to time to work on your requests.

Be aware of what's going on holiday wise and locally on your specific date. If you have family, friends and other important guests traveling (when that’s an option again)to be at your event, they will likely need a place to stay, and if other events are going on then hotels and inns may already be booked!

     Finally, give your guests enough time to plan to be at your event! After all, what’s the point of having an event if no one can attend!

 We hope that these basic, starting tips are helpful to all of you as you begin to plan your own small event! Remember to check back in every Tuesday afternoon for more tips and behind the scenes looks from Only In My Dreams Events!