Steps for Planning a Seminar and Training Event

As we head into 2011, most organizations prepare to plan their goals. Included in this is continuing professional development.
Corporate meeting planners are busy this time of year planning seminar, convention or training event (s).

Here is a really simple list to Consider in building effective continuing professional development events:

1) Decide on your Goal. Will the event be for skill building like leadership, inspiration, or training like new advances in technology, compliance training, etc? Brainstorm first and plan each of your seminar, training or conventions into specific available dates in your calendar. Create a focus and theme for each meeting or convention.

2) Organize the key players. For each meeting or event, decide who needs to be a part of the seminar. If you are looking for specific skill training, consider what experts need to speak. If you are looking to build rapport and create motivation, than hire a motivational speaker. If you need after dinner entertainment, hire after dinner humorous keynote speakers. From here you create the agenda.

3) Decide on meeting space. For a smaller event, a boardroom may be sufficient. Larger convention space is available through hotels which also provide lodging accommodations for out of town delegates. You may need to create a request for proposal for different potential venues to get the best rates and service for your meeting.

4) Create a list of potential participants. Who needs to be at each seminar, meeting or event? Is it leadership? middle management? technical support? front line professionals?

5) Determine logistics. Some professional, guest or seminar speaker require PowerPoint, and others don't. It is best to equip each room just in case. Standard set up are microphones (lapel, handheld and/or podium), power point projector, computer, screen. Will you have internet access for presentations? You may need to hire an AV technician Company

Remember food and beverage and room set up.

Convention Industry Council has established a series of tools that should be viewed as an excellent source of best practices

6) Create your promotion strategy. How will you let people know about the event? Consider the audience. Some ideas:
A company or association newsletter, email promotion blast, social media, mass media, company website.

7) Create your specific promotions. Once you have decided on and coordinated the key players, leadership expert, keynote motivational speaker, seminar speakers, etc. It is time to get the word out about your event. Promote the keynote and seminar speaker, continuing professional development goals, and your theme

8) Set up a registration list. How will you handle payment? in advance or at the door, online? Coordinate and streamline the registration efforts.

9) Prepare signage. For specific rooms. Meet many times with the hotel or special event manager to organize and coordinate the fine details. Be clear on who does what. You many need to reduce or increase food and beverage, chairs, tables, number of rooms etc based on registration numbers.

Prepare name badges, the convention meeting agenda, keynote and seminar speaker bios and handouts.

Get all PowerPoint presentations and set up all last minute logistics. Be prepared that speakers may change their slides, last registrations may be high, you may have last minute room changes, AV challenges.

If you go through this list and are prepared your Continuing Professional Development event, speaker, and agenda will be an inspiration and success.

The Advantages Of Using An Auditorium For Special Events

Are you in charge of organizing events throughout the year, but you don't know where to hold them? If this is your dilemma, why not think about an auditorium?

By doing a little bit of research, you'll most likely be successful in locating an auditorium in your very own city or at least very near by. These places specialize in venue rentals and other services.

There are a myriad of events that can be hosted in an auditorium. Here is an extensive list.

- Weddings
- Lectures
- Trade shows, conferences and conventions
- Concerts and performances
- Memorials
- Student functions, such as graduations
- Special church services
- Proms
- Birthday and anniversary parties

Most auditoriums are operated in an efficient and professional manner. A friendly, trained staff helps to make sure your occasion is a memorable one for each of your guests.

They will be equipped with any sound, stage or lighting you could ever need. Plus, they generally come with box office capability for any ticket requirements.

Nowadays, with up-to-date computer technology, most auditoriums can compose and send out Email messages directly to each of your guests or employees. With a secure Internet link, they'll have the convenience of purchasing their tickets directly online. After purchase, tickets can even be delivered to them through their Email address, saving time and money.

It's all so free and easy and offers a great advantage your guests. Many auditoriums even offer a discount for large groups. Special needs of guests are also taken into account, as wheelchairs and elevator services are provided.

Other special requirements, such as the usage of alcohol, should be checked prior to the hosting of an event. Events hosting places usually need to have an alcohol license before serving, so make sure this is in place or can be obtained in order to prevent any surprises on your special day.

You will also need to book well in advance of your need of the auditorium. This will require planning on your part, and it's vital you don't wait until the last minute.

Most auditoriums have specified hours of operation for events. It's a good idea to inform your guests of the hours in advance and abide by them to create an atmosphere of harmony with the hardworking staff.

Another great advantage of using one of these places is that you, as the planner, will not be responsible for cleaning up after it's all over. This bonus, plus security needs, special setup, theft or damage are all included in any financial arrangements at the time of reservation.

Whatever the occasion, it's a smart move to host your next social gathering or activity in an auditorium. It will not only give you the advantage of having your events in a convenient location, but you'll also be able to add a touch of class to each special occasion.

Event Planners And Clients Must Communicate Fully

In my over three decades of event planning, coordination and management, I have observed and been involved in events that seemed to go off without even a minor hitch, as well as those that have had certain challenges from their inception to their conclusion. While event planners must meticulously plan for any contingency, and should actually over plan and over analyze all details, the main stumbling block to most events success is how effectively the meeting planner communicates with the client. Many meeting planners believe that they are not always given the necessary access to the client, so that communication is limited. I believe, however, than any effective professional event planner should and must realize that there can be very little chance of an optimum result for any event where communication is not open.

In my three decades of planning events of all sorts, for both corporations and organizations, and for small, medium sized, and large groups, I have developed a certain set of rules, and a personal checklist to assure the best chance of success. Certainly, even with the best planning, something might go wrong, but I believe that if a meeting and event planner make one of his rules that there always must be both back up plans and contingencies, transitions can appear seamless to the casual observer and typical attendee.

Some of the items included in my checklist include:

1. Who is the client's primary point of contact? Does that person have decision making authority? What are all the contact numbers for anyone that I might need to be in touch with?

2. What is the primary objective of this event? What are the secondary and tertiary purposes, if any?

3. What is the budget? Without a budget, no professional can effectively plan and manage any event, nor should they.

4. What is the client's vision for the event? Do they merely want an event planner to implement their vision, or do they want the planner to incorporate their vision into a viable plan of action, to create a successful and well received event?

5. At which stage is the event planner getting involved? Is he negotiating everything from the beginning, or is there already a contract with the venue, and the planner is simply working within the constraints of that contract to develop, organize and produce a successful event?

Since I am a full-service, full-cycle event planner, who is also a professional negotiator, I can almost always negotiate a better contract than the client can, and the client ends up with a better "deal." Obviously, the better the initial contract, the better the terms will be, and the more "bang for the buck" the client is able to receive. Professional event planners must always insist on a pre-meeting with the client, where the entire situation is fully explained, all ramifications and expectations are reviewed, all terms, fees, costs, etc., are fully explained and agreed to, and any possible misunderstanding is discussed before it becomes one. I believe that is a major factor that differentiates between a true professional event planner, and someone who merely claims to be.

How to Choose a Conference Centre With the Best Conference Facilities?

How to choose a conference centre with the best conference facilities is a frequent question that is always asked by people who are planning to hold a conference or a corporate event. In such a huge competitive market, it is tough to choose a conference centre that suits you best. Many of the conference centres, even though they might be at the top of the list, may not always suit your needs and requirements. Every conference centre offers something different and unique for their clients.

The first thing that you need to remember when going through all the brochures or online websites is your sole requirements of the conference centres. Make a list of all the facilities that you want or are looking for. Once you have that in mind, going through the websites and brochures will be a lot easier, because you know what you are looking for.

For a lot of conference organisers or participants, the first step will be an online search engine- with the keywords of wherever you are planning to have the conference. From the list of the websites that appear in the search result, the next step is to visit a few websites for more information. Carefully go through the details of facilities, room specifications, related conference or event planning services and request a brochure service.

Corporate conference centres take pride in their flexibility and the wide range of facilities they offer, as well as their commitment to deliver top of the class training experience. Some options might include meeting spaces that can house both small and large groups. Such centres also boast of many different rooms and room configurations, including indoor and outdoor recreation and fitness facilities like a gym or a swimming pool, IT/AV support, on-site conference planning organisers, excellent high class accommodation arrangements for out-of-town business people and even customized meeting plans.

In some cases, many conference centres cater only to businesses rather than splitting their time and facilities between businesses and holidaying guests. By solely focusing on a business clientele, these conference centres are further able to provide groups with a distraction-free environment, which helps in creating a more focused environment and in fostering a healthy concentration and productivity during meetings.

Finally, arrange a personal visit to the venues that are short listed on your list. Pick the top ten and visit them all in turn. They may all seem perfect while going through the brochures, but one must not forget that often brochures can be misleading. Once at the venue, take a look at all the conference rooms and meet the team of the venue. Nothing beats actually standing at a conference venue and imagining a successful conference taking place there - or meeting the people responsible for your successful event.

Most of the larger conference centres give assistance from professional, on-site conference planning organisers to help create a highly productive training session.

These conference planning organisers discuss with the clients about their groups needs, including: meeting spaces, room setups, technology and media needs, food and catering options, transportation options and even team building activities. These experienced professionals work with groups to make sure they have enough resources and support services.

Online Event Management Software

How using the latest software can help simplify administration and improve communication before, during and after an event

Organising any type of meeting, event or incentive trip nowadays involves using some type of technology to process data. However it cannot be underestimated the number of people in the industry who are still totally mystified or baffled as to what the latest technological developments are and more importantly how it impacts on them or their future business.

Most event organisers would consider themselves familiar with the Internet and perhaps use it on a daily basis. However few are taking full advantage and utilizing web based technologies to improve their overall business efficiency and increase results. Searching for a venue on-line or offering web registration just scratches the surface of what is now possible.

Making the most of the Internet Totally web-based solutions provide dedicated event websites to manage the whole event from start to finish using the Internet. This means no software installations on individual computers at the office relying on one person to do everything. The benefits of this type of approach are numerous as instead of just the event organiser having access to the data, anyone with the correct security password world-wide can either simply view or be allowed to edit the data. This could include other organisers and co-ordinators at different locations, hotels, speakers or abstract referees.

Designed for the delegate For the delegate this type of web based system also has advantages, for example activities such as workshops, dinners and tours can be listed and anything the delegate signs up for can be incorporated into a final, personalised participant agenda. Again this is available for the delegate to view at their leisure any where keeping the profile of the event constant in the delegates mind.

The allocated hotels for the event can be represented on the event web site enabling full descriptions of the hotels and their facilities as well as virtual tours etc. Individual hotel reservations, room block selling and automatic hotel booking per participant and room-sharing management all becomes easier to manage. Reservations can be modified or cancelled online and rooming lists forwarded to each hotel simply and quickly.

Push aside the paperwork Other reports, such as participant and activity lists, transport, budget and billing reports, which can be time consuming are constantly available and up-to-date. Evaluation forms and questionnaires can be created and arranged in different customisable folders. Statistics can be gathered and reports defined.

Another important element of many events which is difficult to co-ordinate is abstract handling. The full workflow from abstract submission to notation by referees, editing and the insertion of images, to publication of the proceedings can all be done online.

Additionally and perhaps more importantly for the event organiser communicating with delegates or other participants in the event becomes easier as automatic emails can be created and sent to one or a group of selected people and personalised. Text messages can also be personalised and sent to mobile phones

Improving communication throughout the event The key benefit of these type of web based solutions is that information can be constantly updated anywhere, subject to internet connection and is available 24/7. The results lead to improved communications, better e-marketing of the event and easier data analysis for event organiser, delegate and supplier. The cost associated with organising an event in this way does not have to be astronomical as these types of solutions can be rented per event so they are available and affordable to everyone.

So what are the downsides to this alternative to traditional event organising methods? The speed of the Internet connection seems to be the main concern as access to the event is solely based on this and as an organiser this needs to be quick and reliable.

Managing your mobile Another exciting technology that is revolutionising the events industry is interactive mobile technology. Simply using your mobile phone as a means of communicating and participating throughout an event.

Today, 94% of the population of Western Europe owns a mobile phone, 66% uses it for text messaging and 32% accesses the internet through their mobile phone. The trend for mobile internet access is just beginning - this number is forecast to rise dramatically in the next 5 years.

The service works on any device such as a mobile phone, PDA or laptop on any kind of internet connection (i.e. W-LAN, Wi-Fi, GPRS or fixed line) and regardless of the network operator and is therefore available for almost anybody.

Not only does it provide delegates with all the information regarding an event they require via their mobile phone, it also helps to reduce operational costs by reducing staff numbers and paperwork. There is also the added benefit of generating additional sponsorship revenue through mobile advertising.

Keeping on top of technology In an unpredictable and often difficult business environment, making use of all the available technologies can provide that vital margin that makes an organisation more efficient saving time and money. But more importantly the key is being fully aware of what is currently on the market and deciding whether that technology will benefit you. With a lot of high-tech jargon it is very easy to confuse the different options available and make a wrong investment which can be very costly financially and otherwise. Research the market carefully asking any unfamiliar terminology to be fully explained and always demand a demonstration.

For more information or questions please e-mail: Simon.young@missioneventsoftware.eu

Catering Services - 3 Things To Remember

When it comes time to throwing an event, one of the things that you have to remember to do is work on the food that will be delivered or even catered. If you are having a get together with friends, families, or coworkers, it's vastly important to consider a menu for them to utilize while at your home or wherever your event is going to be held. Food is a vast important piece to any major event, unless you absolutely want to cook for many guests in your kitchen, you might want to look into catering services.

These services can provide a variety of meals, drinks, and social services that event planners can rely on to move forward and mingle with their guests instead of being trapped inside the kitchen. Consider the following 3 things to remember when hiring a service of this nature.

1. Size - You need to consider the size of your party and the size of your space. Catering services most likely need to plan out a menu that is weighed heavily on the space that you're going to use and how many people are going to be expected. By having a good estimate of this nature, you will be able to hire someone that has your specifics in mind.

2. Food Options - The second thing that you need to consider is food options. Will the party serve only appetizer type goods? Or will you ask for main courses, and desserts? This type of planning is vastly important because of set up, pre-cooking, and many other nuances that are specific to creating a full menu to feed many. If you're not throwing a formal get together, finger foods could always work, but if you're looking to have a large gathering, full courses on the bill of fare is important.

3. Drinks - The drinks that you choose for a party is important, and careful thought should be taken. Make sure that your service allows for alcohol or soft drinks, or even both. If you have both options, consider the cost that is involved, and whether or not there will be a fully stocked bar, or if it will only be wine and beer, or just wine. Sifting through the beverage choices will allow you to move forward with relative ease on options for your party, making it an event of epic proportions.

Catering services can be utilized for more than just parties and get togethers. They can be utilized for wedding ceremonies. Weddings are one of the most important parts of a society, and getting the right food for the reception is one of the crucial elements of planning. Make sure to look at the above options when you're booking a caterer for your event, party, or reception. Without some preplanning, consideration, and time, a person will not be able to get the right kind of food, drink, and seating options. Consider the venue, the amount of people that will be there, and your budget. If you can keep that in mind, you will end up moving forward with simplicity.

Why Catering Companies Are Ideal

Embarking into a significant period of your life is special and memorable moment. Whether you are planning a wedding, bar/bat mitzvah or a special event, it should be done with tradition, elegance and your conceptual vision. Special events are exciting yet highly stressful at the same time. A special moment is meant to be enjoyed, not spent worrying about table seating and cake flavors. Hiring a professional catering company removes the burdens of planning an entire event and focuses more time on enjoying the finished product.

Weddings are special romantic occasion that celebrates the love between two people. Ask any bride that has ever gone through marriage, and they will express the amount of stress it takes to plan a wedding. From decorations and arranging seats, to choosing cakes and more, planning a wedding can be mentally and physically exhausting. The thought of planning an event alone can stress out anyone. Thankfully, a professional catering company has the ability to input professional wedding ideas and strategic event planning. Catering companies usually carry every type of vendor needed, from DJs, chefs, halls and more. They are a one stop shop for special event planning.

A catering company will carry fresh quality ingredients for licensed chefs to prepare and garnish for unique food displays. Each dish is presented to please the eyes as much as it pleases the stomach. All cuisines are individually decorated with garnished fruits, vegetables and poultry to add design to the exquisite dining. With delicious food follows fine wine and personally selected songs to complement the special occasion. To perfect the night, a photographer will capture every moment and suggest professional poses for selected individuals. Catering companies will provide you with all of your catering and party needs.

Imagining a special event should be done precisely, to make sure every special moment is captured. Hiring a professional catering company or venue ensures every detail will not go unnoticed but will be perfected. Each catering professional is trained to handle special events whether it is at the venue or catered at home. Each affair is strategically laid out to allow the planners conceptual ideas to be put into action. With fresh mouth watering cuisines, delectable fine wine, ideal song choices, mood setting lights and more, catering companies are the idea companies to use to help you plan a special event. Special moments should be captured and shared with friends and family, so why not capture it with professionals caterers assisting to your every party need?

Dumpster Rental Companies Bundle Services to Be More Attractive For Special Events

A not so recent trend that continues to become more and more popular these days is the pairing or bundling of special event services. Often one vendor can supply several of the temporary rental services needed for a concert, wedding, party or any other special event to be a success. One industry where this trend is especially present is the dumpster industry. In the past dumpster rental companies offered services related to waste management. Dumpster, and roll off rental companies often had divisions that recycled and/or purchased scrap metal and some even provide residential trash collection service.

Now, dumpster rental companies are offering more services geared toward and bundled especially for the special events market. Porta-potty rentals or portable toilets are a usual "add on" service, and is regularly offered along with hand sink and even portable shower rentals. The more services a dumpster rental company can offer, the more potential clients they can attract. Not everyone who needs dumpster rental service also needs porta-potty rentals as well, but it is nice to know the services are available if they do. By bundling these services, dumpster rental companies help special event planners save time by dealing with fewer vendors. Also, there are price savings associated with package deals which make them attractive for consumers.

One such dumpster rental company offering related special event services is S & B Porta-Bowl Restrooms in Denver, CO. With locations in Aurora, Colorado Springs, and Evans, Colorado, S & B Porta-Bowl Restrooms provides the most reliable dumpster rental Denver residents have come to expect. S & B Porta-Bowl Restrooms doesn't only provide dumpster service; they also have portable hand sinks, portable toilets, portable restrooms, and even portable showers for rent. S & B Porta-Bowl Restrooms can pair all these services with their stellar services to make your next important event a success. Bundling services increases a companies value because it allows them to handle more of their customers needs.

It is difficult for special event coordinators to rent the necessary amenities from several different vendors. Renting from multiple vendors causes a logistical nightmare while setting up for and cleaning up after a special event. In summary, grouping rental services together is a trend that can help people save time, effort, and money when planning for an event.

4 Easy Tips to a Boost Your DJ Career

1. Think Big

Over the past 14 years, I have held DJ residencies in some of the top clubs around the world, and played at fashion shows, celebrity weddings and at wrap-parties for several big-budget Hollywood movies, at home and abroad. For a good DJ, the potential is unlimited and your market is as big as your imagination and your work ethic. Your DJ career can take you around the world as it has done for me and many others. Remember, great music is universally in demand. So if you have a valid passport and willingness for travel, the world can be your stage!

2. Find a Niche

I can tell you that there are tons of opportunities out there for good DJ. However, It is extremely important for a DJ to find a niche, and to develop a good reputation amongst the event planners, party promoter, agents and club owners that operate in that niche market. Make sure that the niche market you choose is something you like. The more you look forward to your gigs the more motivated you will be to perform well, which will take you very far as a DJ. Likewise, the more you practice to perform well, the better DJ you will become, which again will make you more marketable. There is absolutely no substitute for hard work in this industry. So find a niche and get to it!

3. Keep an open mind

Making a name for yourself as a DJ in a particular niche can leverage your DJ success for years to come. But while looking for a niche, remember to keep an open mind. Outside of the clubs, DJs are often in demand for weddings, fashion shows, special events or wherever there is a need for good music. In addition, opportunity, for money success and future career advancement can lay in some very surprising places. Deejaying in strip clubs, for instance, can be quite lucrative. Several famous DJs have gotten their start playing in the strip clubs in Vegas, Atlanta and Miami, which eventually led them to fame and fortune. Remember, success often requires us to think outside of the box, so keep an open mind.

4. Stay on top of your game

For most of us, deejaying is not only our passion, it is our business and like any other business the information you operate on can make the difference between success and failure. Networking, like in any other business can create pathways to success. Therefore you should cultivate relationships with other DJs, promoters and agents in your area, or in the area in which you are seeking to score gigs. Furthermore, whether it be through DJ blogs, forums, videos, magazines or books, in order to rise to the top of the game, you will need to seek inside knowledge from those who possess it.

Event Planning - How to Make an Event Successful

Event planning is not an impossible task of ordinary people however, it is difficult. If you are not hiring any event planning firm to organize your event then you will need a lot of stamina to handle every task accordingly. There are going to be times when you will feel very frustrated and want to leave everything but if you manage to be patient and energetic then your event will definitely be successful.

Proper event planning depends on how much knowledge you have regarding it. Therefore, before you start making any arrangements; gain as much information about event management as you can. There best way is to write down all your aims and goals on papers and keep track of your commitments and appointments daily. Moreover, following is a method given, which will help you in organizing an outstanding event:

1. DECIDING THE VENUE:

This is the first task that you have to fulfill. While you are deciding the location of your event you have to keep following things in mind

a. The venue should be easily reachable for everyone.
b. The space provided should be enough for the guests you are inviting
c. It should match your theme and
d. If there is a need for any changes in the location

After discussing all the above queries with the location manager, fix a confirm date for your event.

2. WRITE DOWN THE ACTIVITIES OF THE EVENT:

After deciding the theme of the event, you have to choose activities accordingly. Write down those activities on paper and then make them in order. Moreover, write down the time each activity will take for example how much time the ceremony will take, the meals, entertainment etc. Plan an activity or two that will keep the interest of your guests and they do not get bored.

3. CREATE A BUDGET:

This is one of the important aspects of event planning. It will be really helpful if you write down all the expenses that you have to make to arrange the event so that you can gather enough funds for it. Furthermore, keep extra money aside for unexpected expenses.

4. DEVELOP GOOD RELATIONS WITH THE VENDORS:

If you want your event to be perfect then you need to maintain good relations with your providers. Choose those services that you have come to know from reliable sources. Avert those vendors who do not give you much attention because of their other clients. There is no harm in negotiating with them about lowering down the prices and whatever deal is made, get it written down on paper so that no confusion develops later on.

Hence, these are most important steps that you should take when organizing an event so that it goes smooth till the end of the day. Remember not to take too much stress in this task because then you will be ruining your own health.

Occasions For Corporate Wear Formal Attire

So, you have just purchased some wonderful office corporate wear for your employees, and are excited about how great they look. However, the clothing you have chosen for them to wear around the office is not going to be satisfactory when it comes to any kind of formal events. These can be very important occasions for your company and the right type of formal attire is crucial.

Where to Wear Formal Attire

What do you do if your company is invited to an event that requires formal attire? If your employees are not dressed correctly, this can reflect badly on your company and your brand. Here are some events where your workers may need to don a tux or a dress jacket and trousers.

• Charity Events- Many businesses take part in charity events. The goal of these events is typically to raise money for certain organizations or causes. However, these charity events require more than just a tweed jacket and a pair of chinos. They are often black tie occasions. This means that a nice single breasted dress jacket and dress trousers or a tuxedo is needed.


• Formal Dinners- Are you trying to impress a new client? Or perhaps sway an old client to invest more money in your company? If you plan to hold a formal business dinner, you will need formal attire. Although business dinners may not call for a tuxedo, the every day business suits your employees wear won't work either. Make sure they are dressed in a stylish lounge jackets or dress jackets, a crisp white shirt, and dress trousers. A single breasted waistcoat is a great addition as well. Even if your company is hosting a formal dinner, but not actually part of the guest list, it is still crucial that they wear formal corporate wear.


• Special Event- If your company is hosting a party or a special speaking event, it may be time to break out the black tie attire. Your employees need to look sharp at these affairs. If they are dressed well, they will be like walking advertisements for your company in front of potential clients. Take advantage of this free marketing each time you are part of a special occasion.


• HolidayParties- Perhaps you want to celebrate the holidays with both your employees and your clients. What better way to express excitement and bring in the New Year than a formal holiday party? If you provide your employees with the correct formal dress shirts, waistcoats, jackets, and dress shoes, you won't have to worry about inappropriate corporate wear while they attending the party. This will keep your employees looking great and help them avoid fashion blunders.

If you want your employees to be stylish and fashionable at your next formal event, make sure they are wearing the right kind of corporate wear. Whether you have them wear a tux, a lounge jacket and single pleated herringbone trousers, or a dress jacket, waistcoat, and dress pants, they will be dressed to impress and will help your company look fabulous in front of all of your potential clients at the event.

Office Christmas Parties: How to Plan a Corporate Holiday Party

With the holiday season just around the corner businesses and event coordinators are hard at work planning perfect holiday parties. To plan a successful end-of-the-year bash for your office, follow this easy blueprint:

The Basics: Whether you are planning a company Christmas party or a mixer for corporate clients, make a list of the basics: time, date, and location.

Party Venue: Location is the most important aspect of throwing a successful holiday party, so start by searching for your venue. Think about the type of party you are planning to throw, and how many people will be invited. If it is a formal cocktail affair, consider choosing a hotel or conference center that will be elegant, offer service, and provide enough room for a large party to mingle comfortably.

Refreshments: Like a wedding, the start time of the event will determine whether dinner should be served. If the party starts before 7 p.m., plan to serve dinner to your guests. After 7 p.m., light appetizers are fine. If it is a casual party, consider catering a nacho bar or selection of meats, cheeses, fruits, and dips to keep guests satisfied.

Drinks: If alcohol will be served at the party, consider whether the party's budget allows for unlimited beverages, a small selection of wine and beer, or a certain number of drinks per guest.

Entertainment: Consider asking someone from the office to play MC for the evening, hosting interactive games, live musical entertainment, or a mix of both. While cocktails and appetizers are important, you want the office to do more than just eat and drink!

Drawings or door prizes: Shake up the party by offering fun drawings or door prizes. If there is enough money in the party planning budget, go for a big ticket item like a 3D television. If the party budget is limited, get creative. Guests could take home extra vacation days, tickets to client-sponsored events, or gift certificates to local restaurants, movie theaters, or retail stores.

Invitations: Depending on your company culture, email invites may be perfectly acceptable. Just be sure to get them out early, as holiday social calendars tend to fill up quickly. Also make sure the invitations clearly specify the event theme, dress, and who's invited. If employee family members are invited, be sure to say so.

Decorations: A little goes a long way for company Christmas parties. While the decorations will depend greatly on the party's theme, you can't go wrong with traditional snowflakes, brightly-lit miniature Christmas trees, and soft candles.

Before starting your office Christmas party planning, talk with last year's party hosts and coworkers to get a better idea of what has been done before, what they liked, and any company traditions you may want to incorporate. Keep all of this in mind, and you are sure to throw a memorable holiday bash!

Vendor Management Software - How It Helps To Manage Vendors

There are businesses that are mostly self-sustained. And then there are businesses that rely heavily on third-party suppliers, otherwise known as vendors. For example, an events management business rely on equipment suppliers, food and beverage suppliers, chairs and tables suppliers, printers and fabricators to be able to deliver a good, seamless and flawless event.

While these types of business typically depend on a set of reliable suppliers that they regularly work with, the best practice still involves exploring other suppliers every time a requirement comes up. Otherwise, there won't be any chance of discovering better and more cost-effective suppliers at all.

For example, an events management company who has done business with the same audio-visual equipment supplier for the past 10 years was bent on using the same supplier for a big event. One day, however, a faxed flyer came in from a fairly new equipment rental company which offered lower rates. When asked for a quote, this new supplier gave rates that were half the cost that the old supplier offered. So automatically, the events management company signed up a new equipment supplier.

Unfortunately, keeping a database of vendors is a challenging task, especially in companies where there is a fast turnover rate. The danger in these companies is that people leave too soon, without getting the chance to endorse to the next person their "red book" of trusted vendors. As a result, the next person has to start from scratch to build up their own database of vendors.

This is where the importance of vendor management software comes in. So what does vendor management software do? It actually serves as a robust database of all the vendors that the company has worked with in the past, as well as those that they intend to work with in the future.

Typical vendor management software has such functions as vendor registration, a vendor approval scheme, risk management functionality, the ability to track vendor visibility and performance. All these are usually linked to a standard billing and invoicing functionality as well.

Does it sound like something that your business needs? Remember though that there are certain things that you need to keep in mind when investing in software. First, you have to make sure that the interface is user-friendly, the security features meet your standards, the report-generation functionality is flexible and robust, and the after-sales support is responsive.

How Online Event Registration Software Helps in Managing School Events?

Advancement in technology has led the event planners to develop strategies and streamline processes in event management. Event organizers have since opted for the online event registration software solutions for successfully managing event of any nature. These cater to schools, corporate, institutions and non profits that require event management as a part of their marketing schedule.

Schools always have a number of events scheduled in a calendar year. From camps to sports events to and cultural programs, events are an integral part of schooling. Managing such events is a tedious job with loads of things to be managed at the same time. Multi-tasking does not help much in such situations. A good way out is to use a comprehensive online solution for the many small things that you need to cater to while managing a school event. These include payment management, attendee management, reporting and so on. So with event registration solutions and the factors that account to easy event management in schools, you can envisage a huge success.

Page Customization

The software programs allow you to create a school event page that works for the marketing and branding of the event is an easy job. You can make the web pages visually appealing with the customization options that the software lends.

Usability of program

The best part of the online event registration program is the usability factor. The event managers can reach out to the targeted people using this system. E-mail updates to the attendees can help keep them updated about the schedule. Before sending e-mails you can also customize them making it more appealing to the attendee.

Reporting

Reports are an important aspect of any event management system. Reports such as attendee reports, check-in-reports and sales reports help you to gauge the failure or the success of each event by keeping you perfectly savvy with the total process.

Attendee Management

Option for online registration is a key feature that helps in boosting the attendance. An option for group registration for the prospective attendees is an added asset which makes online registration very popular. You can also register for multiple events easily. Consequently, the organizers get a boosted attendance for multiple events.

Payment Management

Payment processing is one of the major challenges that the event planner has to face. With the online registration solutions that provide secure facilities for payment, there is no problem. These support quite a number of payment gateways and there are multiple payment options that include Pay Pal too. The event organizers can also prevent payment frauds and the pricing is well customized for getting more attendees to the program.

The online event registration software makes you work smarter and faster. It always gives you that extra edge in planning a school event or, for that matter, any other event. It is not only fast but also hassle free and you do not spend time manually tracking the reports. Apart from all these advantages, the software programs save a lot of paper clutter in your office. This is a well integrated and peerless system that makes the colossal online event registration work a cakewalk for you.

How to Be Successful in Event Management

Event management has gained great importance in today's age of mass production and creation of demand for products and services. But there are at least 5 Tips which will teach you how to be successful in event management.

The first of the how to be successful tips is to make sure that the product being advertised is seen by the potential buyer of the product. It is no use advertising real estate plans in an event like a children's exhibition. Also it is necessary to find out what the buyer wants and to project an image of satisfaction of his/her needs. Like in the recession period, loans that have repayment holidays for a year or two before they start paying would be good. This is all about event management.

Next of the how to be successful tips is to evaluate what you are going to get from the event. Some of the valued benefits would be if they tell you about the type of people who will attend the event. Then you could do well to send mails to people about the vent, where it is to be held. An added benefit would be that you are added in the participants list which indirectly adds to the value of the event. All these also add to event management skills.

The third how to be successful tips is to consider who are the persons attending the event. It doesn't matter how many attend as it could be that all of them may not be potential customers at all. It is more the quality of the attendee and how much has got nothing to do with event management.

The next how to be successful tip is that what we give as free gift and samples should be relevant to the business and the product we want to promote. There is no use of just giving something free just its own sake. The give-aways should varant the expense only to increase our profits. Just to quote an example in an event about cosmetics and soaps a new herbal soap can be given free with the usual soap they purchase so as to set the foundation for demand of the new soap. This is all to do with wise event management.

The last but most important tip of how to be successful in event management is to consider carefully where you have put up your stall. Those stalls at prominent points help to give your product more importance. Visibility is the lifeline of effective event management. A few good points could be near the entrance, near food stalls or restrooms or near allied products. If you deal in furniture you could put your stall up near the stall dealing in cushion covers, or near modular drawing room stalls.

To be successful in getting most profits and benefits from any event you have to make sure that the organizers are good enough. You should analyze what you need to cater to and also consider all the points mentioned above to make your event management effort a real success. Now that you are ready for the management of the event, do take all efforts to make it successful.

Corporate Strategic Planning

I would like to share the definition about the corporate strategic planning and competitive advantage. They are mandatory for all big, middle, at least settled company/ institutions to make a sustainable and going concern business.

1) Strategic Planning is the managerial process of developing and maintaining a strategic fit between the organization's objectives and resources and its changing market opportunities.

2) Strategic Marketing is "a series of integrated actions leading to a sustainable competitive advantage"

- John Scully-

3) Corporate Mission is broad purposes of the organization, driven by heritage and environment.

4) Corporate Objectives is a long range purpose.

5) Corporate Goal is a measurable objective of the business.

6) Strategic Business Unit (SBU) is a set of product lines for which a business or marketing strategy should be designed.

Now about competitive advantage is:

1) "Competitive advantage is a company's ability to perform in one or more ways that competitors cannot or will not match."

-Philip Kotler-

2) "If you don't have a competitive advantage, don't compete."

-Jack Welch-

Now is the discussion about the Corporate Strategic Planning:

Entrepreneurs and business managers are often so preoccupied with immediate issues that they lose sight of their ultimate objectives. That's why a business review or preparation of a strategic plan is a virtual necessity. This may not be a recipe for success, but without it a business is much more likely to fail. A sound plan should:

* Serve as a framework for decisions or for securing support/approval.

* Provide a basis for more detailed planning.

* Explain the business to others in order to inform, motivate & involve.

* Assist benchmarking & performance monitoring.

* Stimulate change and become building block for next plan.

For inspiration (and a few smiles), have a look at some of the quotations and examples of bad advice included in other pages!

A strategic plan should not be confused with a business plan. The former is likely to be a (very) short document whereas a business plan is usually a much more substantial and detailed document. A strategic plan can provide the foundation and frame work for a business plan. For more information about business plans, refer to How to Write a Business Plan, Insights into Business Planning and Free-Plan: Business Plan Guide & Template.

A strategic plan is not the same thing as an operational plan. The former should be visionary, conceptual and directional in contrast to an operational plan which is likely to be shorter term, tactical, focused, implementable and measurable. As an example, compare the process of planning a vacation (where, when, duration, budget, who goes, how travel are all strategic issues) with the final preparations (tasks, deadlines, funding, weather, packing, transport and so on are all operational matters).

A satisfactory strategic plan must be realistic and attainable so as to allow managers and entrepreneurs to think strategically and act operationally

Family Reunion Planning - How To Save Thousands This Year

If planning a family reunion were not a challenge, financing it is even more so. As gas prices rise and energy bill increase family reunion planners are feeling the pinch as the catoring and planning service pricing explodes. Add to that the increase in family members and many wonder just how to save when planning the next family reunion.

Too often family members find themselves shelving out much more money than they ever intended just to get the essentials. Unforeseen expenses such as flying in an elder relative or providing a powered wheel chair and mobile van for travel.

So how do you throw a smoking family reunion event while sticking to the budget and even have funds left to contribute to another event?

The key to planning and successfully executing an affordable family reunion event involves taking advantage of freebies, discount services and two-for offers.

Family Reuion Discount Travel Packages
When booking your family members consult online travel sites for special discount packages. Be sure to ask hotel management about any group discount rates. Ask catering companies about size discounts. Use hotel shuttle buses for local destinations.
Other avenues to saving money are in the gifts you plan to distribute. Take public transportation when touring historic districts.

Family Reunion Freebies
Visit the Chamber of commerce for branded items such as free key chains, free tote bags, free tours and tourist welcome packages.

Visit State Universities and ask for free tours, special events such as piano concerts and plays. Look into free use of grounds. Keep in mind that donations are appreciated when utilizing university estate services.

Free Family Reunion Planning Web Sites
Free family reunion event planning software can be found at the following family reunion resource web sites:

http://family-reunion-planner.fimark.net/

http://www.family-reunion.com/organizer/

genealogy.about.com/od/family_reunions/

http://www.familyreunion.com

http://www.Ancestry.com

Family Reunion Planning Software
Family reunion planning software and planner templates can help you save hundreds even thousands of dollars simply by helping put all your ducks in a row and avoiding unforeseen pitfalls and resultant expenses. These family reunion resource sites also offer family reunion resources with free templates, family reunion committee and subcommittee assignment sheets, free tips and guides, free newsletters, free family reunion, tips booklets and free family reunion registry.

Free Family Reunion ECards And Invitations
eCard sites offer free family reunion e-vitations. Free Press Release sites can be used for free reunion event announcements

Penny savor classifieds are great for free reunion event announcements. Make use of family reunion webpage hosts for
free family reunion webpages.

Family Reunion Committee Tools
If your working with a family reunion committee and subcommittees take time to create a budget for each department. Insist that each subcommittee adhere closely to the budget while attempting to take advantage of bargains and saving assigned funds for next year's event. Consider giving a prepaid debit card to each subcommittee chairman.

With good planning, organization and cooperation you'll throw a successful reunion event, stick to the budget and save hundreds, even thousands on your next family reunion.

Wedding Table Linens 101

Planning Your Wedding:

When you are planning your wedding... the biggest event of your life, consider the many possibilities available to you for your wedding table linens, be sure to research well if you are considering using standard round white tablecloths, keep in mind that you can also use tablecloths with vibrant and exciting colors and make a dramatic statement, colored tablecloths are usually the same price as standard white table linens.

The size of your tablecloths and napkins will of course depend on the size of your table. Dressing your tables with beautiful table linens is the most dramatic way to change the ambience of your event space and make a personal statement with elegance, style, and color.

Never buy table linens with SERGED HEMS:... unless you want to carry an iron down the aisle... serged hems will curl up and look awful, and they will fray when laundered, and I personally think they look cheap, ALWAYS buy table linens with "folded and stitched" hems.

Will the event planner, caterer, hotel or venue, provide the tablecloths?:

Sometimes wedding planners, caterers, or reception venues will provide standard "House Linens" as part of a package deal. Some will refund part of your cost if you choose not to use their house linens, you may want to use theirs if they have "exactly" what you want in the color and size. The hospitality industry calls these table linens "house linens" or "full tablecloth" when used alone, and "under cloth" or "table liner" when a table runner or table topper is used for accent.

Will the tablecloths reach the floor?:

The critical question regarding tablecloths is what will the "drop" be, meaning the amount of tablecloth that hangs over the edge of the table. Most people at weddings and events like to see the tablecloths touch the floor, but some prefer a half-way "drop". as tablecloths can be too long and bunch under the table but it is far better for them to be too long than to be too short. Check out a table linen sizes guide and keep in mind if your event budget is an issue in these difficult economic times shopping from online stores will give you the biggest table linens bang for your buck.

What are the most popular wedding table linen colors?:

The most popular wedding colors are white, black, ivory, burgundy, and chocolate, consult with your wedding planner or reception reception venue and choose table linen colors that work well in the room where you will be hosting the event. Make it a fun project and consider creative ideas such as matching your bridesmaid's outfits with elements of the room decor, and don't forget to double check your room size calculations with a Tablecloth Sizes Calculator and tablecloth sizes with a Tablecloth Sizes Chart.

When buying wedding table linens online are the table linen colors on most websites the exact colors I would receive if I buy them?:

Viewing exact linen colors on a computer screen is somewhat subjective as the exact color you see depends on your own computer monitor settings and your computer screen resolution, but for the most part the online color will be exactly or almost exactly what you will receive, usually if there is a difference it will be very slight and hardly noticeable. The best idea is to ask for fabric swatches in the colors you are interested in, or better still why not buy 1 tablecloth, runner or napkin so that you can exactly compare under the venue room lighting and make sure it's exactly the color you want, don't take chances, do your due diligence and you will have a successful event.

Event Venue Lighting:

It is wise to consider any room lighting change that may occur during your event, many events begin when it's daylight and as the evening progresses electric lighting is switched on and this can color the room decor and in some cases can noticeably change the overall ambience and style of the room, the degree of change depends on the type of lighting so be sure to consult with your wedding planner or the reception venue staff, and if possible go to the reception venue and check it out for yourself.

Table runners or full length tablecloths?:

If your wedding planner or reception venue will be providing tablecloths it is cheaper to just buy a suitable table runner. However, if no tablecloths are provided then you will need to buy both a tablecloth and the table runner or buy a full floor length tablecloth for each table. It is not just a matter of budget but also of having the "right look". Some people prefer the layered two tablecloth style while others prefer the smooth style of one tablecloth. Both ways are correct it's purely a matter of taste and style.

How many people will fit at each table?:

The standard table sizes for event tables are 60 inch round tables that seat 8 guests comfortably and 10 guests not so comfortably. 72 inch round tables seat 10 to 12 guests. Ideally you seat to the lower number at the table but sometimes guest comfort can be sacrificed for other reasons, mabey a group of colleagues or sisters may all want to sit together and they would rather be seated together than separated, or sometimes it depends on the size of the event room and the number of guests, each time you add a table you will add an additional table centerpiece and tablecloth. 160 people seated at 60 inch round tables can be either 16 tables of 10 guests or 20 tables of 8 guests. Sometimes the reception venue will only have one size table available or a set configuration of tables due to the room size and layout. The most important thing is to make your guests as comfortable as possible with the tables and space you have available.

Napkins:

When choosing napkins be sure the napkin fabric is heavy enough to hold a fold and will be absorbent. 100% visa polyester fabric is a good choice for weddings and catering events, most are stain resistant and wrinkle free.

Wedding Chair Covers and Sashes:

The chairs at your reception venue may be suitable, however, if the chairs are unsuitable consider using chair covers. Wedding chair covers and sashes are available in a variety of colors and styles and may easily solve any problem with the chairs. Make sure the chair covers you want actually fit the chairs your going to use and do you need folding chair covers or banquet chair covers.

Chairs and covers come in different sizes and do not always fit each other, it's better to find this out well before your event, also make sure the event caterer, planner, hotel or reception venue has the staff and have agreed to put the chair covers (and sashes) on and take them off after the event. The alternative to chair covers is to rent a better chair, there are a wide range of chair styles and costs ranging from a basic plastic folding chair or higher end white wood folding chairs to very expensive banquet chairs. Keep in mind that the venue's existing chairs will have to be removed and stored and also put back after your event so allow for this labor cost in your budget

Catering Buffets:

The catering buffet should always be styled with additional table linens. If the guest tables have upgraded linens then the buffet should be matched with the same or very similar style table linens. If you have plain house tablecloths on the guest tables then the catering buffet should be dressed with decorative table linens that match with the room. The buffet is of course about the food on the menu, but it is also about the overall presentation of the event room.

Gift Table Location:

The location of the gift table varies and the location will determine the extent that it should be decorated. If it is in the main dining area then it should match or blend with the guest tables. If it's situated outside the main dining area then it should be dressed in a single tablecloth with minimum decorations.

Head Table Decorations:

A head table if you choose to have one, should be decorated to a greater degree than the guest tables, at many weddings the bride and groom have specially decorated chairs dressed with flowers, garlands, or ribbons. Many couples choose to have chair sashes with names embroidered to keep as a keepsake of the wedding.

Cocktail Table Linens:

Make a BIG statement immediately with the decor in the cocktail area by choosing a tablecloth that is bright, vibrant, elegant and an understated preview of the dining room, or for more adventurous tastes, decorate in direct contrast to the dining room decor. If the cocktail and dining areas are visible to each other the wedding table linens should be matched in style and color. When all the pieces are put together the main room should produce the "Oohs" and "Aahs" that you deserve to hear when the doors are opened to welcome your guests.

You should have strong statements from your flower arrangements and the tablecloths that can be seen from a distance, and also in the napkins and favors that will be enjoyed by your guests after they are seated.

The Cake Table Setting and Location:

Cake tables are normally a small round table anywhere from 30" inches (2 1/2ft) wide to 48" inches (4ft) in diameter. Although it should be well decorated your cake table does not need to be decorated too much so as to detract from the cake itself. The cake table tablecloth can be a little shorter as most cake tables need to be easily movable and they almost always have wheels for this purpose.

Place Card Table Setting and Location:

Place card tables are normally situated set in the reception venue lobby or in the cocktail area and they provide a good opportunity to do a single tablecloth that either matches the place cards or something really special such as a large flower bouquet arrangement, but be sure that it does not appear "too busy or loud" or disturbs the natural layout of the place cards.

Using Social Networking to Increase Attendees at Your Event: Will It Really Work For You?

Some years ago, most people would have laughed at the idea of getting more than a million people hooked onto social networking sites, such as Facebook and LinkedIn. Today, social networking is not a matter of choice but a necessity for most users. We are using social networking sites for a host of purposes - from reconnecting with friends to building links with prospective clients. As an event planner, you can no longer undermine the potential of this new age media that reaches out to millions of users all over the world.

Online communities within social networking sites are extremely useful for event planners like you. These communities are formed by people sharing similar interests and preferences. For example, you can target a community of teenagers to promote a rock fest you are organizing. Not only is this a convenient means by which you can promote your event, you also get to save a lot of money on advertising.

You can make the most of social networking by understanding your target audience. Here are some useful tips that can help you to capitalize on the popular networking sites to promote your event:

CREATE ACCOUNTS ON SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES

This is the first step that you need to take to explore how social networking can help you to increase attendance at the event. Your Facebook or LinkedIn page should immediately catch the attention of your prospective attendees. Remember, unless it catches their attention, they will not come back again to know about your events.

Make your Facebook page interesting by adding necessary information regarding the events that you host, registration details etc. It is a good idea to include a link to the registration page so that interested attendees can sign up for the event instantly.

POST EVENT DETAILS ON MULTIPLE SITES

You can post event details at multiple sites free of cost. Post your event details at all the major social networking sites. This will help you to reach out to a large number of people who might want to attend your event.

GENERATE AWARENESS ABOUT YOUR EVENT

Your social networking account helps you to promote your event in the most effective manner. Popular networking sites, such as Facebook and Orkut have millions of users all over the world. Thus, you can post your event details on these sites to inform people about your event.

When you inform your target audiences about the event, don't forget to add the link to your website or the webpage containing information regarding the event. This is important because prospective attendees might want to know about the event in more detail. Moreover, you can build traffic to your website with this option.

USE EVENT PROMOTION TOOLS

Observing the growing popularity of social networking sites for marketing, business development and lead generation, networking websites, such as Facebook and LinkedIn have now added special tools to aid marketing professionals and event planners. The "Event" section on Facebook and LinkedIn helps you to notify your group members about an upcoming event. This feature helps you to target people outside your network as well!

Social networking offers endless possibilities for event planners like you. Hence, use your creativity to reach out to your target audiences.

Reduce Stress in the Workplace and Improve Staff Motivation Using Corporate Events

I was recently called in to troubleshoot a small business down south. There order book was practically empty and their turnover was way down on what it had been a couple of years earlier. So my job was to work out why and offer solutions.

So in I went. I met up with the managing director and the owner of the business in order to agree the plan of action and a timescale. I also had a general chat with them to get a feel for the background of the business and their current staff and systems.

Their systems looked fine, their policies were in place, stock levels were appropriate, lead times were realistic and staffing levels were pretty much spot on to deliver a good service. They had a couple of sales people out in the field, they were generating the few orders that the company were currently fulfilling but the problem seemed to lie with the tele-sales side. So that was to be my first focus.

The following week I made sure that I arrived early. The staff had been informed that there would be a consultant in the office who would be taking a look at how business profitability could be improved. The first thing that struck me was that when the sales staff arrived there was just no buzz. OK, so it was Monday, but the atmosphere felt like it was Friday afternoon! You know what I mean, when everybody has had enough of the week and is tired. They he seemed already to have that ' ready for the weekend' feeling. But to have that atmosphere on a Monday morning spells potential disaster for a business.

Why?

Because staff who feel like that will never ever perform at their best. They will miss opportunities to close a sale; they will transmit that feeling to clients and potential clients, who would then be uninspired either by the product or the company or both and look elsewhere.

So what happened next?

I talked to the staff in order to try to determine why they felt like this and it became evident that they were happy with the management (unusual or what?) and found their colleagues polite and pleasant to work with. The office surroundings were comfortable, air conditioned, light and with plenty of room for every one's desk area to be partitioned off.

So still a mystery? No not really for me; it became evident that the staff, about 20 or so, lived in different villages and didn't really see each other outside of work. So the root of the problem was in fact that they were effectively strangers and did not feel part of a team. The company, although they had taken great care to provide a good working environment for staff, had no canteen so there really was no central place or opportunity for staff to socialise and to get to know each other well.

Finally, I made my recommendations to the managing director and the owner. Firstly, I told them to get rid of the partitions between the desks, the staff would then be able to interact with one another much more freely and that will generate more of a buzz in the office. Secondly you need to make more opportunities for Stafford two socialise and gel; call it team building if you like. Organise them some company social events and even invite clients to a corporate event. That way the staff will get to know each other better and be able to develop a rapport with clients too.

Six months later, on my follow-up visit, the atmosphere was noticeably different, there was a much more positive feel about the office and more orders were coming in. The owner of the company had taken on board my advice and during that six month period since my initial visit, and had organized two corporate treasure hunts; a casino night just for the staff plus a spy themed corporate event in a country hotel, to which he had invited not just the top clients but some prospective clients. Apparently the day was a huge success, with several of the prospective clients placing orders in the following months.

The future of the company was thus assured by simply using corporate events as team building to bring not just staff, but staff and clients together. I quietly chalked up another success and gained a glowing customer testimonial for myself!

Event Management Tips

Atlanta event management can be challenging at best. And the larger the event is, the more challenges there are. Whether you're planning a board meeting or an event for 500 people, the basic procedure is the same. For larger events, you simply have to think on a much larger and grander scale. But even the tiniest meeting can fail on the details like whether or not people can hear, see and have a comfortable place to sit and take in the presentation.

One important aspect of successful Atlanta event management is planning ahead. If you need a keynote speaker or other speakers, you should contact them as far in advance as possible. No one likes to feel pressured to do something on short notice. For someone only speaking for 5 or 10 minutes, it might not seem as crucial. But the keynote speaker could spend a long time preparing his or her remarks. If you don't contact them early enough they may have to turn down the event only because they won't have time to prepare.

Contacting people early is a commandment of Atlanta event management. But what about when you can't contact people early? What if someone cancels at the last minute and you're scrambling for a replacement? This kind of thing can be avoided if you plan for problems when you start the Atlanta event management process. Have one or two people that can fill in at the last minute. Or plan some sort of audiovisual presentation to fill in any gaps left by cancellations.

A good Atlanta event rental company can help you with this type of thing. You're probably going to want to rent audiovisual equipment anyway just to make sure everything goes smoothly. Even if your company has equipment available, using good Atlanta event management skills and creating a backup plan with the rental company is a wise move.

In the case of using your own equipment, something could break down at the last minute. In that case you want a rental company that offers next day or even same-day service. Have a plan in case things go wrong, because something usually will at some point. If you have equipment but you're not sure if it's up to the task, you should contact a rental company right away and get the right equipment.

Many meetings and conferences have not been successful because the audiovisual equipment didn't work properly. Sometimes people can't hear or sometimes they can see the presentation. You don't want either of those things to happen at your meeting. An Atlanta event management company that planned events every day would never leave such a thing to chance.

Using a good rental company in Atlanta means that the equipment is top quality and there will be a large selection. You'll be able to get exactly what you need for the size group you have. And if you use an experienced company, you'll even get suggestions and recommendations about the right equipment to use as well as help setting it up and testing it.

Why Companies Organize Corporate Events

There are quite a number of reasons why companies hold corporate events. A lot of companies invest their resources in organizing these events, knowing fully well that they produce positive results in terms of achieving their goals. The work that you and your co-workers do can be exhausting or just downright monotonous, so you need to take a pause every once in a while.

Here are some of the reasons why business organizations put together corporate events:

Celebrate successes and triumphs - It's always good to reward those who go the extra mile to achieve or even surpass their goals. These are the hardworking employees who put in everything they have to deliver the results that are expected from them. Awards and prizes can also be given out to recognize individual or team efforts during this event.

Product-launching - Introducing a new product can be an opportunity for the company to strengthen its relationship with its stakeholders. This is a very crucial corporate event, so it's important that every aspect is carefully planned for and organized - from the corporate catering company you choose down to the choice of venue.

Team-building - Designed to improve the team spirit and performance within the organization, team-building activities facilitate not only the enhancement of the employees' skills, but can also bring out other abilities that may have previously been untapped. It's also a way of reinforcing the company's objectives. Fun games and exercises are certainly good for the weary worker, so be sure to include them in the activities that you're going to conduct.

Conferences and seminars - Of course, a business organization has to organize an event that will focus on specific areas of interest for the employees. Companies usually invite resource speakers who are experts in their own field to share their knowledge and insights. This gives the employees an opportunity to increase and even improve their skill sets via workshops.

Customer appreciation - Certainly, without its customers, a business organization is nothing. Corporate events can be held as a way of thanking them for their support and for patronizing the company's products or services. Prizes are usually raffled off and given to the attendees.

Honoring retirees - When a senior member of the organization who has been with the company for decades decides to retire, it would be a nice gesture on the part of the company to honor him with a special event like a testimonial dinner.

Whatever the nature of your corporate event is, consider it as an opportunity to get yourselves re-acquainted so you can rekindle your personal and professional relationships. It is important then to take time to plan all the aspects of such events - from the corporate catering company you'll hire to the ideal date and venue - so you can put together a successful gathering that will reap excellent results in the end.

Limousine Services For Corporate Events

With the changes and competition in the corporate scene, many companies in Toronto need to earn extra edge over their competitors by using Limo while attending corporate events. The car will create a good image for the company while offering them comfort and reliability for attending any type of meeting and event.

When it comes to limo services, many companies offer a number of packages for their clients. For those who cannot obtain a package that suits their needs, they can get customized services that entail all the requirements they want. These packages depend on the features that are available in the limos such as telephones, refrigerators, electric outlets and tinted windows to offer privacy to the clients. It will also depend on the type and model of the car selected.

The selection of these cars for corporate events will depend with the requirements of the client. The type of car will influence the choice since there is a variety including sedans and SUVs, among others. The other factor to consider is the size of the corporate team since different cars can hold up different capacities of people. The clients may also select from different colors as well as from a variety of car manufacturers as per their desire.

The advantages of choosing these services are many and the client can be assured of reliability and convenience. The spacious environment inside will offer the corporate team enough room to carry out activities while en route to the event. For early morning or late night events, limousines are a great option as the clients can catch up on their sleep without any additional fee. In addition to this they offer privacy, safety and dependability regardless of the time and venue.

Family Reunion Planning Step By Step

As a wise proverb says "There is a time for everything under the sun. A time to run, a time to laugh, a time to skip about." With that sentiment there is a time to strengthen the bonds of family union. And what better way to begin then planning for your next family reunion. Family reunion events have evolved into big-time annual family shindigs these days. From gatherings at the ol' homestead to luxury cruise ship gala events. But when is a good time to start planning for your family reunion? The fact is, anytime is a good time to start planning a meaningful memorable family gathering.

KEEPING TIME ON YOUR SIDE

They key to successfully planning a modest to large family event is giving yourself and the rest of the family plenty of time to put it all together. This will also allow family reunion planners drum up support when and where needed. This calls for good communication and organization on the reunion planners part.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT FAMILY REUNION SOFTWARE

Your best approach to organizing a family reunion event is using what is called a family reunion planner organizer with *attendee registration spreadsheet features. Planner organizers now come in many software formats. A stand-alone program may require the manual input of information such as reunion date, time, number of attendees, guest list contact information and such. It is advantageous to choose reunion planning software platforms that allow users to export and import data into formats most users are familiar with such as MS Word and Excel Spreadsheets.

COMMITTEE MEETING PRESENTATION FEATURES

Users should be able to take advantage of spreadsheet data report and presentation features such as bar and pie charts for surveys, dues ledgers and such. Your family reunion planner organizer should allow you to easily enter survey data and tally. For example, the reunion committee narrows down three possible locations for the family reunion event. Perhaps you want to find out how far these locations are from each attendees home address. Features that allow you to enter travel distance to the reunion event location per household and run a comparison report can help you narrow down the most convenient locations.

CHECKLISTS ACCOUNTS AND BALANCES

Your software should include features the allow you to add up T-shirt orders and payment balances. Keep track of desired reunion activities and menu surveys. Keep track of delegated assignments. Make sure your planner also comes with a family reunion planning primer. It should contain an editable pre-written timeline planner with built in checklist. Reunion supplies and materials lists are extremely helpful. Many reunion planners come with a host of templates such as flyers, labels, nametags, official reunion correspondence stationary, welcome letter template to name a few.

HELPFUL SEARCH ENGINE FEATURES

Now major search engines offer features that allow users to share standard data in MS Word and Excel spreadsheet format with other online users making the reunion communication process a whole lot easier for all involved.

REUNION PLANNING STEP BY STEP

Step 1. Your first task is to gather information from family members regarding the kind of family reunion event they would like to have. To do this you should first commence announcing that plans are underway for the next family reunion and the need to consider ideas and select committee member volunteers.

Step 2. Compile a list of family members and their addresses and send out your announcements as a flyer or in newsletter format. Your announcement should include a brief survey asking for their opinions and suggestions for food, entertainment, theme, events and location. Those who respond quickly and provide practical input should be asked to form the reunion committee.

Step 3. Establish an initial committee meeting time and place where most can attend.

Step 4. Form your initial committee members including the chairperson and treasurer.

Step 5. Using your "Committees List" commence selecting other subcommittee heads. Your committees lists includes the following duties:

Food committee

Welcome/Greeting Committee

Finance Committee

Communications Committee

Setup and Cleanup Committee

Fundraising Committee

Family History Committee

Photography Committee

News and Media Committee

Supplies Department

Health and Safety Committee

Security Department

Genealogy Research and Presentation Committee

Step 6. Now review your consideration elements and consider potential reunion site locations visited", reunion themes, proposed date, initial cost estimates for budget. Remember to use the survey you sent out with your initial mailing. Many Family Reunion Planner organizers contain 30 or more elements for consideration.

Step 7. As you discuss consideration elements record final decisions as to who will do what. Delegate committee heads and volunteers accordingly. Make sure delegations are in harmony with your committee heads department. Avoid overlapping assignments.

Step 8. Now get into the details of planning the event. Using a "Possible Locations and Activities " list compare completed surveys to the possible location and activities list. Draw a line through locations not recommended and narrow down the desired location to about three or four choices. Now take a vote. Follow the same pattern for activities.

Step 9. After deciding on location and activities you now have a better idea of event needs in the form of materials and services.

Step 10. Using a "Needs List" as a starter, begin listing all needs for your event with the help and feedback of department heads.

Step 11. Create a ballpark "Expense List" to get an idea of the amount of funds required for the event and activities and add this to your Reunion Planner Budget list and Calculation Tool.

Step 12. Using your surveys complete a "Reunion Lunch Program Agenda" if your reunion event will be held in the after noon. Otherwise create a "Reunion Dinner Program Agenda".

Following these basic steps when choosing your family reunion software and organizing your reunion event will get you off on to a good start.

*A Family Reunion planning "Attendee Registration Worksheet" is a spreadsheet that allows the user to record information in the form of a dues ledger, tally reunion surveys, create a guest list roster". Enter T-shirt orders and keep track of special needs.

Why an Ideal Event Planning Should Include Online Event Registration Software

The whole concept of 'keeping in touch' has gone virtual today. When we need to reach out to a mass with intention either professional or personal, the easiest way is to go online. The event management industry is highly competitive with extremely increasing workload. So it is always wise to use the advantages of online event registration and payment management tools to induce efficiency and effectiveness.

Trend-setters in the field have already taken event management online with event registration software. There are event management companies who provide simple and powerful software to ensure a highly effect attendee experience as well as an increased ROI. At the same time you save a lot of money and time by choosing tailor-made event management package which exactly suits your entire event requirement.

Event management was never so much easier! Here are some advantages of using online tools for event registration:

• Using event registration, you can publish your event and send out notification to everybody within 20 minutes!


• Using email communications, discount rules and gift cards from the software, you can promote and sell your events online.


• The event management software lets you copy events easily to create new versions of the same event.


• You can create and publish an unlimited number of events and store them.


• No download, no print, no need to pay postage or even write a check! Today's event participants love to register online for events. Its hassle free and time-saving.


• You also have the facility of printing receipts and invoices for onsite attendees.


• With the help of built-in payment handling and data processing facilities you can accept payments online and easily control attendee information.


• Once satisfied with the payment and data, immediately after, the event registration software will send a unique electronic confirmation to the attendees by email.


• It stores information so efficiently, that you can get downloadable updating on any second on your money collection and latest registration.


• You also can use your own merchant account


• The software tool will generate a list of important data from the database with will call lists, meal preference lists, name tags and badges.

Collecting payments have always been a crucial part of an event planning. The online event registration software has in-built payment management service. That lets you go smoothly ahead with conveniences like transaction reconciliation, monitoring for fraudulent transactions, the processing of refunds and also resolves chargeback requests.

Today, when you are going paperless, you actually are going green. So you can brand the event as "green event". This is a positive marketing campaign for your company and for the event. To sum up, online tools for event registration is the smartest option for streamlining the workload and getting proper attention of the net savvy generation.

Essential Tools for a Breakout Room

When it comes to a large conference or meeting, the breakout rooms are essential to the success of the overall conference.

When considering conference equipment rentals one thing that is often overlooked are the needs in the breakout room. When evaluating a venue, it is best to consider the following checklist to ensure that the presentation services audio visual company can meet your needs.

Let's start with the "Low Tech" items. Each breakout room should have the capability to be equipped with the following items. If you are relatively new to conference services, you might be surprised to learn how often these low tech items are not available at all or are in short supply.

• Easels for signage and/or flip charts


• Flip chart paper, enough units for each breakout room, if needed


• Markers, with a variety of colors. Make sure they work and have plenty of ink!


• Masking tape if the speaker wants to brainstorm with the audience


• Podium, either tabletop or stand alone


• White Boards with Dry Markers, again with a variety of colors that work

"Hi Tech" breakout rooms should have the capability to include:

• PC or Mac Computer Workstations or Laptops


• USB Slide Advancer with Laser Pointer


• Digital Signage


• Plasma TV


• Projector and Screen Rental


• Wireless Internet


• SMART Board Interactive Whiteboard


• USB Drives, given to attendees with the presentation loaded onto it

When considering a venue, obtain a listing and quantity of what conference equipment rentals listed above they have and which ones they do not. Find out if there are other meetings or conferences at that venue. Which conference equipment rentals are already committed to another organization?

Determine your speakers needs, find out what audio visual equipment they are bringing themselves, and look hard at your budget. Some speakers are very low tech and some are extremely high tech. Some bring nothing and others bring everything.

Limousine Rental Guide

There are different occasions wherein hiring a limo service is most appropriate. However, you have to make sure that you get satisfaction with the money you pay. Renting limousines is not always the option of a lot of people because of the high cost. If you decide to hire a limo service, consider booking one on an early date to avoid hassles. When planning your luxury transportation experience, consider the following:

• Occasion - There is an ideal limo for each type of occasion. A limo best used for weddings is different from the ones that can be used for birthdays. The limo service company may customize available limos for your event. A regular one can be decorated depending on the occasion. This is why the company offering limousine transportation service would ask details about the event that you will be attending.

• Cost - Limousine services are for the high-class market, but the price can also shift depending on the size of the vehicle, distance of transportation, and the time of the year. There is no need to make unnecessary splurging. Get only the right service for your budget. Note that each limousine company has its own pricing scheme. Usually, limo rentals are charged on an hourly basis, but you may be surprised to find companies providing flat rates and packages. Limousine companies may also charge fuel surcharges on top of the base fees. Now, drivers would have customary gratuity fees that are around 20% of the base charges. So, make sure you know all the costs you may incur when looking at your options.

• Packages - Limo companies offer luxury transportation service packages for weddings, proms, concerts, casino tours, and other special occasions. These packages are ideal for events whose start-end durations are determined. The number of hours that the luxury vehicle will be used determines the price of the package.

• Vehicle - There are different kinds of limousines, although they all seem to look the same. A limo can be small, accommodating only one or two people, or it could be long and stretched, like the ones you see at casinos or concert venue parking areas. It is recommended that clients should check out the cars before making arrangements with the company. They may post pictures of their cars on its website, but it is better to actually see the limo units in person to come up with a better choice.

• Booking - Limo service reservations must be done as part of your event planning. If you are planning for your wedding and you wish to rent a chauffeured limo, make reservations a year before your wedding date. For events like proms and parties, book a limo a few months ahead. Make sure you have confirmed your limousine reservations, and do not forget to call the company a few weeks before the scheduled event to further confirm.

• Safety and Insurance - Some limousine transportation companies do not have appropriate insurance that will protect their passengers in case an accident happens. Trust only companies who will look after your welfare. At the same time, make sure the company is legitimate and registered.

Fashion Goddess Rules - Appropriate Evening Dresses For Corporate Events

Some of the most common questions I get all seem to fall into one category: "What are the guidelines regarding appropriate evening dresses for corporate events?" Fashion Goddess Rule #47 is: Corporate event gowns shall be neither too risqu矇 nor too cabaret.

Too Risqu矇 - Front

You have a great bosom and you don't see a problem with showing it off. That's fair. But when you're attending a corporate event, you want positive feedback, not people gawking at your rack.

It is possible to give the suggestion of voluptuousness without full disclosure. If you're a fan of evening dresses, is an excellent example. It's a Grecian style gown with a low-cut neckline. Not too low but just low enough to intrigue.

Too Risqu矇 - Back

You could be mistaken for Jennifer Lopez from behind. I'm jealous! But when you're attending a corporate event, you want to stimulate with your mind, not your behind. It's okay to wear a form-fitting gown as long as the outline of your physique is left up to the imagination.

If you own any, or have your eye on any designer evening dresses, you're in luck. This dress has a way of fashioning a loose fitting gown out of clingy material. So as you walk, there is a hint of a curve here and a hint of a curve there.

Too Risqu矇 - Bottom

You have spectacular legs, why cover them up? Okay. But when you're attending a corporate event you want to network with your eyes not your thighs.

If you can bend over to retrieve a dropped business card without showing all of your business, you're golden. If you can cross your legs without your co-worker's eyes crossing from shock, AOK.

A lot of evening gowns manage to marry mini lengths with maximum sophistication. Case in point, this falls about six inches above the knee in a smart ensemble of black stain ribbons.

Too Cabaret - Best Color Choices

By too cabaret, I mean too dramatic, theatrical, showy, etc. This rules out flamboyant colors like red, yellow, orange, and also loud prints and patterns. Stick to neutral colors like mauve, beige and ivory. And black is always safe.

One exception, if you work in an arts-oriented industry, you can get away with an artistic print. For example, if you are a curator at a museum or are an art gallery owner, you may like these amazing evening dresses. Specifically, it reminds me of an abstract Picasso painting.

Too Cabaret - The Right Embellishments

I am often asked how to go about buying an evening dress online when you can barely see the details. You must utilize the zoom function on the product pages. This is especially important when shopping for corporate events. Zoom in and weed out anything with overtly flashy details.

If you're looking at designer evening dresses, the slip dress will be ideal. If you're browsing couture evening dresses, some have a teaspoon of sparkle.

Too Cabaret - How Much Skin?

I am a fan of splits in dresses. And a well thought out see-through panel can be quite captivating. But these are not appropriate for corporate events.

No exceptions. No back or side splits and no heart-shaped cut-out over your belly - not if you want to keep your job and/or be respected. Both designer evening dresses and couture evening dresses focus on feminine lines without actually revealing them.

Few Tips on Conference Event Management

Organizing a conference or a seminar perfectly is no doubt a challenging objective to be achieved. In order to have a successful conference or seminar certain effective tools and a profound knowledge on the affair is a must. This will help one to have the booming conference event management schedule.

It can be any conference and event management requirements there are certain aspects, which must be remembered at any cost. Planning should be made based on the facts that whether the event requires a paid admission or if it is a conference then for the conference registration online procedures need to be maintained or not. A well-devised strategy for the marketing campaign is also a must for the event. This marketing function happens to be one of the most important parts of the event and lots of time and effort is required to back up the entire affair. Successful marketing opportunities help a business thrive and assist in the search for newer participants.

The marketing element related to the conference event management is very significant in understanding of the true objective of the business. There can be various purposes behind organizing the event and they include branding your company, spread a word about the event. Therefore, the event should always be backed up with best set of marketing strategies in order to achieve its goals and at the same time making it absolutely a fun affair for all the participants.

Here are few tips guarding one's conference event management plan or other events resembling various forms and types.

A Successful Event Marketing Plan

A marketing plan for an event should be such that major objectives such as, budget, resources both internal and external must serve well to make the event fruitful. Thus, the plan should be chalked out absolutely in a way that it should be specific but flexible at the same time.

Branding the Conference and the Event

Branding the event is one of the important factors in the conference event management services. This is a tool to reach out a wide audience for attracting their attention. The brand must always carry all the means to promotion. They are, emails, websites and other on-site materials.

Utilizing the Web

If you have a website for your company then a space must be designated for publishing the news on the various upcoming events. This will enable you to spread a word on the event and provide other relevant information on the event to the band of attendees. This helps you to have a great economy. Bulk of Information can be sent to the participants at the fraction of cost involved in delivering them via other means.

Discount Rates in Offer

Offering a discounted rate to the attendees is also a nice option to draw more participants.

Venue

The venue one has selected for the event is another important aspect for getting more participants. Always choose a venue based on the fact that the attendees generally belong to urban or sub urban areas.

Proper Promotion Guarding Your Conference Event Management

Advertising medias act as the most important element enhancing the coverage of the event. Exchanging the links of your websites with other websites belonging to the trade show or conference directories will boost up your next conference for sure.