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18 December 2014

Helpful Event Planning Tips

By Sara Reighard


We've all been to events that were huge successes and probably to a few large parties that didn't seem to go very well. If you are planning a large party, either a company party or perhaps some type of festive occasion, you probably are hoping that it will be a great success but worried about disaster. It's not hard to plan a big party, but it does require some organization, hard work and bit of creativity.

Procrastination can be your worst enemy, so don't put off for tomorrow what you can do today. Begin planning as far in advance as you possibly can, as there is nothing worse than trying to cram it all in at the last minute. You can create interest and let people know about the event with a simple "save the date" card or email. While this doesn't give away details about the exact time or location, it will let them know to clear their schedule for the event. Once you are closer to the party date, send out a formal invitation or a casual email invitation with all the big details.

This means that the first step is to select a venue and choose the date of your event. Obviously, a great venue can transform a party so be sure to select a spot that will appeal to guests. If the party space already looks great all by itself, that makes it easier for you because this typically requires less decoration than a blank slate. A Manhattan loft apartment can be an excellent option for your party venue. Several companies rent lofts for parties and corporate events, such as Home Studios, Inc., which has two spacious lofts that are available as private party venues, product launch venues, corporate event venues or even an event such as a bar mitzvah or graduation party.

The smaller of the two lofts can handle about 120 guests if you are hosting a standing event and 100 for a sit-down event, such as a dinner. There is 3,000 square feet of space that includes a kitchen enclosed by vintage restored barn doors, 13-foot ceilings, plenty of windows for natural light, and gleaming wood floors. The larger loft includes a huge main area with floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as two kitchens, wood floors and an exposed brick wall. This larger loft can accommodate as many as 175 for a standing event. Both feature wireless internet and a dedicated client phone line, which is ideal for a corporate event.

Once you select a venue and set the date, write out a master list of all that needs to be accomplished and who will handle each task, as well as when each task needs to be completed. Keep this master list handy and create a folder where you store the list as well as all paperwork relating to the event, such as catering contracts, entertainment service contracts and more. Be sure to ask for help and delegate tasks when you can. If you are working on a corporate event, schedule a quick meeting once a week to check everyone's status and more often as the event approaches.

If you are a bit stumped about decorations, entertainment and food, it can be easier to plan the event if it has a special theme. This can also make it a bit more fun to plan as you toss around crazy ideas regarding food or entertainment or music. A theme can be as simple as using a holiday for inspiration or even a decade in time, just reach into your imagination and select something that suits the personalities of your guests.




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