Event Development (continued)

“The following is a continuation of my Event Development Series. Several months ago I started the series with the first section, “Initial Development”. The second section is entitled “Research and Preliminary Planning”. Now that you and your team have decided to proceed with the event, it’s time to get serious! As suggested previously, any thoughts and idea are more then welcome!"

Research and Preliminary Planning
You’ve determined that you “financially” want to proceed with your festival or event and you and your committee have completed plenty of “research”. Now it’s time to start your “Preliminary Planning”.

Preliminary Planning – Venue
Have you adequately thought about where you are holding your event? Choosing the right location is very important. You should create a check list of the elements needed. Such requirements as:
• Is the size of the facility large enough/too large?
• Are there food preparation facilities?
• Can they provide the food?
• Can they serve the food?
• How are the acoustics?
• Is there enough parking?
• Can you hang up signs (if necessary)?
• Can liquor be served?
These are just a few of the questions that might need answered. Talk it over with your group and make as complete a list as possible and, don’t be afraid to go back if further question arise

Preliminary Planning – Timing
How is the timing of your event? Choosing the right time is also very important. You should create a check list of potential conflicts. Such as:
• Is there a conflicting event (other organization, sporting event, school event, election) that might limit the number of people attending your?
• Is there enough manpower available at the time of your event?
• Will weather (snow or lack of it) likely affect your event?
• Is there a conflicting holiday?
Again, these are just some of the questions that need answered. Talk it over with your group and make as complete a list as possible. Once you have considered all possibilities, choose the time with minimum chance of conflict.
(To be continued)