Being an event planner may seem like a fun, carefree job that gets to throw parties all the time, right? It can be quite the opposite; although it’s gratifying to help make people’s dreams come true, event planning can be one of the most stressful careers. Not every individual is cut out for the position and it’s important to find a quality event planner to coordinate the successful outcome that you are looking for. These specific skills and characteristics are essential when hiring a qualified planner:
Organization
Great event planners are highly organized people who ensure that your special occasion runs smoothly and flawlessly. The profession requires a keen eye for detail and sharp, intuitive pre-planning. It’s the job of the planner to keep a client within timelines and budgets and oversee all aspects from start to finish. They also have a great memory and are able to recall minute details. Keeping track of various vendors and contracts can be overwhelming and the professional planner needs to be able to quickly retain each companies’ practices and guidelines for an enhanced planning process.
Network Professional
The best planners will be the ones who know the ins and outs of networking. The events industry is built upon people-driven and relationship-based qualities. Having the best recommendations for your clients as to which caterers, photographers, entertainment, décor, bakery, and other vendors in the area will help guide your client in making choices with less stress. A strong network of providers will not only help your client, but will also increase the return referral from vendors, and overall will strengthen professional relationships.
Creativity
Another reason many clients choose to hire a professional event planner is that they want someone who can give a wow factor to their guests. They want an event that is cutting edge and unique; that hasn’t been seen a hundred times before. It is important to brainstorm ideas throughout the entire planning process so that the unique features of the event represent the values of your client. Some clients may be able to articulate their vision of the event, but if they can’t, it is up to the planner to bring inspiration to the event. Ideas can be researched meticulously through fashion channels, Pinterest, even from Pantone that releases an annual color of the year to reflect fashionable hues for the upcoming year. Another critical skill to have regarding creativity is the ability to think fast on your feet when unplanned situations occur during an event. The ability to switch to a ‘Plan B’ without anyone even noticing a change is truly the work of a professional planner.
Event Planning DC provides full event planning, partial event planning, wedding planning, month-of (day-of) event coordination, event styling/design, and decorating services throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia. We have access to local and national vendors who may provide additional services suitable for your event and budget. Our team prides ourselves in offering only the highest-quality event coordination, giving you and your guests the perfect day, no matter what the occasion, including exclusive corporate and non-profit events, weddings, Bar & Bat Mitzvahs, community events, and milestone celebrations. More information can be found online at https://www.eventplanningdc.com.