Events

DIY Event Planning

In some ways, producing a successful event is like developing an online course: you need a reason to bring people together, and the right venue or space for them to meet.

But a conference, meetup, in-person class, or other event has at least one big difference: a fixed deadline that comes with other unchangeable variables. If no one signs up for your online course on ballroom dancing, you can try again later. But if no one shows up at a physical venue you’ve booked, with a band setting up on stage and an instructor on duty, you have a bigger problem.

Right from the beginning, you’ll need a clear plan for how you will attract people to your event. This should include an easy way for them to sign up (and pay in advance whenever possible) so that you know what to count on.

If you can avoid paying for a venue for your first event, do so. Community centers, schools, and religious institutions that are often empty throughout the week can be good options. In some cases, bars and restaurants will be happy to host your group, especially if you commit to spending a minimum amount on food and beverages there.

Make a simple projection of how many attendees you’ll need for your event to be successful. Of course, you’ll want more than the minimum standard of success, but this way you’ll have a baseline goal.

Perhaps most important of all: when it comes to events, publicity matters a lot. Shout it from the rooftops!

 

100 Side Hustles

Coming June 4, 2019