December = Party!

Event planning is a large and exciting part of public relations, especially around the holidays. From family "get togethers" to office parties, anyone and everyone has some reason to celebrate during this month.

As I spend most of my days in the back office of Oba, I have witness our event coordinator's stress level increase by 20 percent. Everyone is calling to book their holiday events and of course everyone waits till the last minute to do so. And of course most days were booked in 2007. With most calls, I have to tell the potential client: "I am sorry. Our private dining room is booked that evening." There is some confusion, usually on their end and we try to accomadate them as much as we can.

But it always leaves me wondering:
Don't people plan ahead?

I have worked the past four holiday seasons at Oba and with my personnal expierence I have created simple guidelines for throwing a succesful event.

• When hosting or planning any holiday event, the main thing is to be organized.
• Before you start calling around town for venues and/or catering, have a strong idea of what you want for your event. Not being sure of the date or number of guests will get you no where.
• Whether having a large or small budget, be aware of your cash flow when planning each aspect of the event. If your boss is forcing you to make the office party at Pizza Hut seem like The Ritz, use your thinking cap and think of creative and cheap ways to entertain your guests.
  
• Have menu options that work for all of your guests. Not everyone loves what you do!
  
• Have your invitations/emails/phones/text messages/whichever form of communication you choose make your guests RSVP. Having an incorrect guestlist costs time and money on all sides.
• Always. ALWAYS have a plan b. The world is not perfect my friend!

Some other helpful tips/sources/ideas:
PartyPlansPlus.com's Tips for Hosting a Holiday Party
Delish's Five Ideas for Christmas Parties
Morebusiness.com's How to Organize a Holiday Office Party