Fandango Catering and Events Offers Event Planning Guide 101, Part 2

In Part 2 of our continuing blog series, "Event Planning Guide 101," we offer more tips on planning for a successful event. Why do some events go smoothly and others don't? Often because of a lack of planning. Today, more tips for event planning for a successful occasion.

Make lists--You can never have a successful event without one or more lists because you'll inevitably forget something without a list or two.
Basic lists:
*Menu (food) and beverages (drinks)
*What you need to buy/make/serve each food and drink and where to get each
*Remember to include extras like ice, cocktail napkins, and limes for drinks
*List the platters/bowls/trays/utensils for serving each food

The bar--Easiest bar stocking is with red and white wine, one signature cocktail in pitchers, and one non-alcoholic beverage. If you want a full bar stock, buy vodka, gin, scotch, bourbon, tequila, red and white wine, club soda, Coke, Diet Coke, and ginger ale. But don't apologize for what you haven't stocked and let your guests know as they arrive what's available ("Tonight we have x, y, z...")

Glasses--If you don't have enough rent them (around .50--.60 each). We avoid paper cups as they fill up landfills and look kitschy. The great thing about renting glasses is that you don't have to wash them, just empty and put back in the box or whatever they came in.

Set the mood--Stack the CD changer or put the music player on shuffle. Beware of loud music unless all guests are under 30. Do the flowers or decorative centerpieces/table decor (we increasingly use and advocate the latter, such as decorative statues, clocks, etc., for our event designs as they are a greener option since you don't throw them away, they are more interesting visually, and they won't provoke an allergy attack in any guests) early in the day.

Kitchen--No matter what you do, even if you close the door, people will go into the kitchen. Make sure it's clean.

Pretend you're a guest--Walk through the door--What does your setup look like? What do guests see? Are there places for purses, coats, umbrellas, etc.? Do you need to hide things like pet dishes or litter boxes?

Any event can be made a success with a bit of planning and by keeping in mind a few things (that most people don't think about).

Warmly,

Kristina

Kristina Ríos de Lumbreras, Ph.D.
Director of Sales and Operations/Event Manager
Fandango Catering and Events
(713) 522-0077
(281) 796-9841
info@fandango-catering.com
http://www.fandango-catering.com