What is an event planner?

What do you do? A question I get asked quite often.

My response is always, “I’m an event planner”.

For the longest time I never saw the need to explain what an event planner is.

I always thought that it was quite obvious.

What most people think an event planner is:

Before getting involved in the Events Industry I probably had the same mindset.

I identify as an event planner focused on special celebrations. Most people think that I am a decorator, event promoter, get paid to party, only plan concerts, etc…the list is endless.

I always have to stop myself from rolling my eyes every time I hear one of these assumptions.

WELL…not everyone has taken the time to understand my industry…or maybe they are just trying to make conversation.

What is the definition of an event planner?

**Industry def*inition***

The clue is in the name.

An event planner is a person who plans all aspects of an event. From the conceptualization of the event until the event takes place.

Every, event planner’s job goes beyond the big day, they work behind the scenes.

They gather feedback from clients and take the time to conclude everything about the event.

Event planners create budgets, work with a client to decide on a theme and organize any entertainment for the event.

They help clients to design their dream event.

The Official Definition:

Event planners create budgets, establish timelines, select and reserve event sites, work on securing permits if required, work with outsourcing different services from different vendors, manage risks and develop contingency plans.

Fiona’s Definition:

Being an event planner is all about throwing the most fabulous celebrations, right? Yes.

But the job involves more than décor and venue selection.

It is a super-challenging but super-cool job.

An event planner oversees that everything related to an event is taken care of. This starts with the idea conception to programming and day-of logistics. They create experiences and bring dreams to life.

In short, event planners stir multiple pots…a job not for the faint-hearted.

Planners coordinate meetings with clients, look for locations, oversee vendor relationships and client communications, create and negotiate contracts, manage budgets, etc…

What does an event planner do?

Event planners work exceptionally long hours to organize and execute the details of every event.

Events bring people together for a common purpose. Therefore, it is the event planner’s job to ensure that this purpose is achieved effortlessly.

The responsibilities of an event planner may include:

Event planning, design, and production within time limits.
Working with clients to identify their needs and ensure client satisfaction.
Arranging facilities and details such as décor, entertainment, transportation, location, guest, etc.
Recommending ideas to improve provided services and event quality.
Ensuring compliance with insurance, legal, health and safety obligations.
Identifying staff requirements and coordinating their activities.
Proactively managing any arising issues and troubleshooting any emerging problems on the event.
Performing pre and post event evaluations and reporting on the outcomes.

Event Planner – According to Fiona

Event planner roles range from big factors like floor-plans, down to the small details like table centerpieces. It is an event planner’s responsibility to organise everything that is needed to deliver the event. Planners conceptualize and develop the event.

As event planner l take on all aspects of the event from start to finish. My business, Peek-a-Party, is focused on special celebrations (birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, baby and bridal showers, intimate weddings, etc). We come up with fresh innovative ideas to wow our clients who lack the expertise and time to plan their events themselves.