Event Planning: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Invitation Wording Ideas
If you're searching for invitation wording ideas or a sample invitation letter / sample formal invitation, the best approach is to first understand how invitation wording should be structured. Learn more about invitations and invitation wording for formal events.
If you're searching for invitation wording ideas or a sample invitation letter / sample formal invitation, the best approach is to first understand how invitation wording should be structured. Learn more about invitations and invitation wording for formal events.
Writing Welcome Letters
Planning an incentive trip or other meeting that will require writing a formal welcome letter for guests? It's easier than you think. Use this sample welcome letter as you develop your own template!
Planning an incentive trip or other meeting that will require writing a formal welcome letter for guests? It's easier than you think. Use this sample welcome letter as you develop your own template!
Event Planning Fees
Whether you've been working in the business for a while or just starting out, some consider it a dream job to start their own event planning business. But how do many event planners structure tehir fees for services? Check out these five ways to collect fees as an event planner.
Whether you've been working in the business for a while or just starting out, some consider it a dream job to start their own event planning business. But how do many event planners structure tehir fees for services? Check out these five ways to collect fees as an event planner.
What is an Event Planner
An event planner identifies venues for potential programs, reviewing proposals, negotiates discounts, determines food and beverage needs, incorporates transportation needs, and makes overall recommendations for their event programs.
An event planner identifies venues for potential programs, reviewing proposals, negotiates discounts, determines food and beverage needs, incorporates transportation needs, and makes overall recommendations for their event programs.
Event Planner Salary
What is the national average salary for an event planner, including base pay, bonus and other benefits? What responsibilities are expected of an event planner?
What is the national average salary for an event planner, including base pay, bonus and other benefits? What responsibilities are expected of an event planner?
Start an Event Business
Some people are interested in taking their event and meeting planning experience to the next level by starting their own event planning business. This is an exciting idea, but it takes more than the desire to plan weddings, seminars or golf outings. Learn more about how to approach creating your event planning business and some of the practicalities you should keep in mind.
Some people are interested in taking their event and meeting planning experience to the next level by starting their own event planning business. This is an exciting idea, but it takes more than the desire to plan weddings, seminars or golf outings. Learn more about how to approach creating your event planning business and some of the practicalities you should keep in mind.
Writing Invitation Letters
How to for writing formal invitation letters and materials to a variety of events, including incentive trips, meetings, conferences and more.
How to for writing formal invitation letters and materials to a variety of events, including incentive trips, meetings, conferences and more.
Basic Event Budget
Whether you're new to event planning or a seasoned pro, keeping an event budget will help you stay organized
Whether you're new to event planning or a seasoned pro, keeping an event budget will help you stay organized
Writing an Agenda
Whether you're planning an executive conference, retreat or incentive trip, you will need to develop an agenda or itinerary that will be shared with attendees. Learn more about writing an agenda and see a sample agenda.
Whether you're planning an executive conference, retreat or incentive trip, you will need to develop an agenda or itinerary that will be shared with attendees. Learn more about writing an agenda and see a sample agenda.
CMP credential
The CMP designation helps event planners distinguish their credentials and expertise in planning and executing professional events.
The CMP designation helps event planners distinguish their credentials and expertise in planning and executing professional events.
Vegas Wedding Venues
But most people who marry in Vegas often want to create an experience that will be remembered. While Vegas wedding venues will offer a full range of packages, including bouquets and boutonnieres, the minister, champagne, photography, entertainment and more, dig deeper and you’ll find some unique themes and venues. Learn more.
But most people who marry in Vegas often want to create an experience that will be remembered. While Vegas wedding venues will offer a full range of packages, including bouquets and boutonnieres, the minister, champagne, photography, entertainment and more, dig deeper and you’ll find some unique themes and venues. Learn more.
Corporate Event Jobs
Event jobs can be found throughout most corporate organizations if you . This list will provide you with information about various departments within businesses that include jobs with event planning responsibilities.
Event jobs can be found throughout most corporate organizations if you . This list will provide you with information about various departments within businesses that include jobs with event planning responsibilities.
Sample Speaker Evaluations
Event and meeting planners are sometimes challenged with creating a speaker evaluation form to use with professional development programs. This article highlights what's included an an evaluation form and provides samples.
Event and meeting planners are sometimes challenged with creating a speaker evaluation form to use with professional development programs. This article highlights what's included an an evaluation form and provides samples.
Father and Daughter Songs
This list offers 10 songs for your father and daughter dance at your wedding. The father daughter dance is a great opportunity for a sweet and sentimental wedding song. Use this list to find a father daughter wedding song that perfectly suits you.
This list offers 10 songs for your father and daughter dance at your wedding. The father daughter dance is a great opportunity for a sweet and sentimental wedding song. Use this list to find a father daughter wedding song that perfectly suits you.
Event Sponsorships
Nonprofit event planners are always looking for ways to raise money for their cause while keeping the operating costs low. That's where event sponsorship plays an important role. Find out more about what benefits you may wish to offer event sponsors for your next special event.
Nonprofit event planners are always looking for ways to raise money for their cause while keeping the operating costs low. That's where event sponsorship plays an important role. Find out more about what benefits you may wish to offer event sponsors for your next special event.
Breakfast Menus
A closer look at the various breakfast menu options for your meeting or event, when it makes more sense to select a continental breakfast vs. a plated breakfast, and what unique touches will make your meal memorable.
A closer look at the various breakfast menu options for your meeting or event, when it makes more sense to select a continental breakfast vs. a plated breakfast, and what unique touches will make your meal memorable.
More Father and Daughter Songs
Use this list to find the perfect song for a father and daughter dance, mother and son dance, or other special wedding dance for unique family situations. If you need wedding songs for your father/daughter dance or a mother/son dance, this list will provide suggestions.
Use this list to find the perfect song for a father and daughter dance, mother and son dance, or other special wedding dance for unique family situations. If you need wedding songs for your father/daughter dance or a mother/son dance, this list will provide suggestions.
Seminar Planning
Seminars are the most popular meeting organized by meeting and event planners. Learn how to put a seminar together in a few easy steps.
Seminars are the most popular meeting organized by meeting and event planners. Learn how to put a seminar together in a few easy steps.
Catering Menu
Menu selection involves more than simply selecting from a list of items that your catering manager offers or just calculating which items fit in your budget. Keep these suggestions in mind to plan a great event.
Menu selection involves more than simply selecting from a list of items that your catering manager offers or just calculating which items fit in your budget. Keep these suggestions in mind to plan a great event.
Seminar
What is a seminar
What is a seminar
Event Career Resources
If you're searching for a career in event planning, check out this listing of job boards on industry web sites.
If you're searching for a career in event planning, check out this listing of job boards on industry web sites.
Starting a Catering Business
Anytime is a great time to start a catering business. Greg Casella, 2010 president for the National Association of Catering Executives and owner of Catered Too! in San Jose, CA, started his business during a recession. Learn 10 tips you should know to start a successful catering business.
Anytime is a great time to start a catering business. Greg Casella, 2010 president for the National Association of Catering Executives and owner of Catered Too! in San Jose, CA, started his business during a recession. Learn 10 tips you should know to start a successful catering business.
Festival Sponsorships
Event organizers should create corporate sponsorship categories to generate revenue and expand programming options. Organizers of the Taste of Chicago share their approach to securing corporate support.
Event organizers should create corporate sponsorship categories to generate revenue and expand programming options. Organizers of the Taste of Chicago share their approach to securing corporate support.
Meeting Space Floor Plans
Hotels and other conference facilities typically present meeting room space based on seven of the most popular floor plans. Understand how these numbers impact your event space.
Hotels and other conference facilities typically present meeting room space based on seven of the most popular floor plans. Understand how these numbers impact your event space.
Wedding Planners
Many people who pursue an event planning career will look to wedding coordinator jobs as a path to establishing their own wedding planning business. Learn more about what are the duties of a wedding planner.
Many people who pursue an event planning career will look to wedding coordinator jobs as a path to establishing their own wedding planning business. Learn more about what are the duties of a wedding planner.
Help Your Clients Plan a Big Wedding on a Small Budget
This article outlines many ways to creatively save money while planning a big, beautiful wedding. Read this article to learn cost-cutting measures for cheap catering, dresses, photography, invitations and more. Weddings don't have to be expensive to be beautiful.
This article outlines many ways to creatively save money while planning a big, beautiful wedding. Read this article to learn cost-cutting measures for cheap catering, dresses, photography, invitations and more. Weddings don't have to be expensive to be beautiful.
Table Settings and Decorations
While there's certainly a time and place for the use of traditional white table cloths and standard guest
While there's certainly a time and place for the use of traditional white table cloths and standard guest
Business Etiquette
Most people want to present a positive impression of themselves at corporate and social events. These rules for good manners at meetings and social events will help anyone navigate the world of business etiquette for events.
Most people want to present a positive impression of themselves at corporate and social events. These rules for good manners at meetings and social events will help anyone navigate the world of business etiquette for events.
Tip: Closing Night Receptions Should Be as Memorable as Opening Receptions
Conventions should incorporate a closing night reception, giving attendees a chance to network and discuss topics from the event. If your event is located where a beach party is possible, this can give your closing reception more of the wow factor.
Conventions should incorporate a closing night reception, giving attendees a chance to network and discuss topics from the event. If your event is located where a beach party is possible, this can give your closing reception more of the wow factor.
Hotel RFP Proposal Examples
An event planner asks how she can develop her own hotel RFP to receive hotel bids for meetings and other events. Find out what proposal examples should be included in your hotel RFP.
An event planner asks how she can develop her own hotel RFP to receive hotel bids for meetings and other events. Find out what proposal examples should be included in your hotel RFP.
Wedding Dance Songs for All Ages
List of top wedding songs popular for dancing. Wedding dance songs for all ages and in all music styles.
List of top wedding songs popular for dancing. Wedding dance songs for all ages and in all music styles.
Wedding Theme: Winter Wonderland Wedding Decorations
Learn how a Washington, DC hotel wedding was transformed into a winter wonderland for New Year's Eve. This article describes the wedding decorations, including flowers, linens and lighting, that made this wedding theme beautiful and unique.
Learn how a Washington, DC hotel wedding was transformed into a winter wonderland for New Year's Eve. This article describes the wedding decorations, including flowers, linens and lighting, that made this wedding theme beautiful and unique.
Event Planning Software - APEX
APEX is an initiative of the Convention Industry Council that is bringing together all stakeholders in the development and implementation of industry-wide accepted practices to create and enhance efficiencies throughout the meetings, conventions and exhibitions industry. Check out the tools designed to help event planners.
APEX is an initiative of the Convention Industry Council that is bringing together all stakeholders in the development and implementation of industry-wide accepted practices to create and enhance efficiencies throughout the meetings, conventions and exhibitions industry. Check out the tools designed to help event planners.
2011 Events Calendar
An events calendar of holidays and major events will help event and meeting planners know the important dates to schedule their programs and the important dates to avoid scheduling their events. This comprehensive list includes holidays and major events around the world.
An events calendar of holidays and major events will help event and meeting planners know the important dates to schedule their programs and the important dates to avoid scheduling their events. This comprehensive list includes holidays and major events around the world.
Event Job Search
For those who are interested in pursuing an event planning career, there are thousands of listed event planning jobs. Check out htese postings from a variety of job listings from major job boards, newspapers, associations and company career pages.
For those who are interested in pursuing an event planning career, there are thousands of listed event planning jobs. Check out htese postings from a variety of job listings from major job boards, newspapers, associations and company career pages.
Evaluate a Venue
A basic site selection checklist will help event planners make sure that a venue in consideration is both appropriate and capable of meeting your needs. Keep this list and your priorities nearby for site visits: amenities, facilities, equipment, technology, catering, other services.
A basic site selection checklist will help event planners make sure that a venue in consideration is both appropriate and capable of meeting your needs. Keep this list and your priorities nearby for site visits: amenities, facilities, equipment, technology, catering, other services.
Wedding Planner Expectations
You want to become a successful wedding planner with your own business. Your goal is to lead your own independent lifestyle while spending your time on work that is creative and delivers a reasonably high salary. What will it take to get there?
You want to become a successful wedding planner with your own business. Your goal is to lead your own independent lifestyle while spending your time on work that is creative and delivers a reasonably high salary. What will it take to get there?
Catering Lunch
A closer look at the various lunch menu options for your meeting or event, and what unique touches will make your meal memorable.
A closer look at the various lunch menu options for your meeting or event, and what unique touches will make your meal memorable.
Quick Tips from Planners
Have you ever been interested in reading fun and practical ideas that other event planners have collected over the years. Check out these ideas and more.
Have you ever been interested in reading fun and practical ideas that other event planners have collected over the years. Check out these ideas and more.
BEO
: An agreement form that details selections for food and beverage, audio/visual, room setup(s), staffing
: An agreement form that details selections for food and beverage, audio/visual, room setup(s), staffing
Negotiate Hotel Pricing
As hotel sales continues to increase costs for guest rooms, meeting space and catering services, how can event planners negotiate the best deal?
As hotel sales continues to increase costs for guest rooms, meeting space and catering services, how can event planners negotiate the best deal?
Business Meeting Attendance
Several steps can be taken to increase attendance for business meetings and events. To increase the RSVPs, some tips include creating great agendas, maintain sensitivity to the calendar and clock, Tips include: create a great agenda, choose convenient locations, target the right guests, send numerous invitations, and establish a reputation for having the best events in town.
Several steps can be taken to increase attendance for business meetings and events. To increase the RSVPs, some tips include creating great agendas, maintain sensitivity to the calendar and clock, Tips include: create a great agenda, choose convenient locations, target the right guests, send numerous invitations, and establish a reputation for having the best events in town.
Wedding Invitation Wording Made Easy: How to Find the Best Invitation Wording
The best websites for finding wedding invitation wording for all wedding situations. See the Royal Wedding Invitation used for the wedding of Prince William of Wales and Kate Middleton.
The best websites for finding wedding invitation wording for all wedding situations. See the Royal Wedding Invitation used for the wedding of Prince William of Wales and Kate Middleton.
Golf Gifts
If you're getting ready to plan this year's golf tournament and searching for great golf gifts, consider these top ideas.
If you're getting ready to plan this year's golf tournament and searching for great golf gifts, consider these top ideas.
Events Management
Event management is the work performed by those who plan events, meetings, conferences, and other special events. Learn more about this profession.
Event management is the work performed by those who plan events, meetings, conferences, and other special events. Learn more about this profession.
Popular Corporate Events
With more than $122 billion being spent annually on meetings, learn more about the most common types of business events that organizations hold.
With more than $122 billion being spent annually on meetings, learn more about the most common types of business events that organizations hold.
2010 Events Calendar
An events calendar of holidays and major events will help event and meeting planners know the important dates to schedule their programs and the important dates to avoid scheduling their events. This comprehensive list includes holidays and major events around the world.
An events calendar of holidays and major events will help event and meeting planners know the important dates to schedule their programs and the important dates to avoid scheduling their events. This comprehensive list includes holidays and major events around the world.
sponsorship category ideas
Trying to think of new sponsorship category ideas for your next event? Perhaps some inspiration from other successful events will help. Learn more about how to find great sponsorship ideas for your event by checking out what others have done.
Trying to think of new sponsorship category ideas for your next event? Perhaps some inspiration from other successful events will help. Learn more about how to find great sponsorship ideas for your event by checking out what others have done.
How to Start a Wedding Planning Business
This article defines five steps to starting a wedding planning business. With tips on how to become a wedding planner or wedding consultant, it will make achieving a successful wedding planning business easier.
This article defines five steps to starting a wedding planning business. With tips on how to become a wedding planner or wedding consultant, it will make achieving a successful wedding planning business easier.
Business Etiquette Mistakes
There are many common business etiquette blunders that happen every day at business meeting events. Share these event scenarios with your colleagues and clients so that they don't make a habit of these bad manners.
There are many common business etiquette blunders that happen every day at business meeting events. Share these event scenarios with your colleagues and clients so that they don't make a habit of these bad manners.
Summer Events
Having trouble with generating ideas for summer events, consider these suggestions such as baseball game bleacher parties, golf school, horse racing and more.
Having trouble with generating ideas for summer events, consider these suggestions such as baseball game bleacher parties, golf school, horse racing and more.
What is Catering
What is catering?
What is catering?
Wedding Planning Certification
For those who wish to pursue a wedding planner career, it's important to obtain wedding planning certification. But how do you differentiate between legitimate programs and those that you should beware of? Learn more.
For those who wish to pursue a wedding planner career, it's important to obtain wedding planning certification. But how do you differentiate between legitimate programs and those that you should beware of? Learn more.
Events Industry Trends
The 2007 EIBTM Industry Trends report identifies several business event industry challenges, especially for international planners. Budget is the biggest consideration. However, expanded destination options may provide some financial relief.
The 2007 EIBTM Industry Trends report identifies several business event industry challenges, especially for international planners. Budget is the biggest consideration. However, expanded destination options may provide some financial relief.
London 2012 Tickets & Hospitality
Whether you want to organize hospitality related to the London 2012 Games or looking to obtain tickets and create your own mini-visit during that time, here's what you need to know to find official tickets (and avoid the scams).
Whether you want to organize hospitality related to the London 2012 Games or looking to obtain tickets and create your own mini-visit during that time, here's what you need to know to find official tickets (and avoid the scams).
Event Planning Employers
Anyone interested in working in event planning should understand the various types of potential employers in this field. Opportunities exist corporations, associations/non-profit organizations, government agencies, event planning suppliers, and event planning firms.
Anyone interested in working in event planning should understand the various types of potential employers in this field. Opportunities exist corporations, associations/non-profit organizations, government agencies, event planning suppliers, and event planning firms.
Ideas for Wedding Songs with Style
This eclectic list of wedding reception songs will add style to your wedding music playlist. Popular wedding songs and modern wedding songs are included.
This eclectic list of wedding reception songs will add style to your wedding music playlist. Popular wedding songs and modern wedding songs are included.
Event Measurement
When it comes to the planning and executing event logistics, meeting and event planners typically know their event processes cold. But meeting and event planners are increasingly expected to measure and demonstrate the value of their programs. Here's what you should know.
When it comes to the planning and executing event logistics, meeting and event planners typically know their event processes cold. But meeting and event planners are increasingly expected to measure and demonstrate the value of their programs. Here's what you should know.
2010 Event Planning Issues
social media, client buy-in, sustainability and professional development are among the top issues facing event and meeting planners in 2010 and beyond.
social media, client buy-in, sustainability and professional development are among the top issues facing event and meeting planners in 2010 and beyond.
Trade Shows for Event Planners
trade shows
trade shows
Checked Baggage on Airlines
If your airline luggage is missing, you should complete a mishandled baggage claims report. This process differs by airline, but here's what you should know.
If your airline luggage is missing, you should complete a mishandled baggage claims report. This process differs by airline, but here's what you should know.
Festival Tips
If you are planning a food festival for the first time or wanting to expand an existing festival, the event planners behind the Taste of Chicago 2007 offer some quick tips for general planning, operations management, sponsorships, talent management and marketing/public relations.
If you are planning a food festival for the first time or wanting to expand an existing festival, the event planners behind the Taste of Chicago 2007 offer some quick tips for general planning, operations management, sponsorships, talent management and marketing/public relations.
Event Planning Notebook
Event planning requires strong organizational, communication and documentation skills. An event binder is one event planning basic that will help you create a successful business event.
Event planning requires strong organizational, communication and documentation skills. An event binder is one event planning basic that will help you create a successful business event.
Mother and Son Wedding Dance Songs
Ideas for a sweet song for the mother and son dance at your wedding. The mother son dance is a treasured tradition, and this list provides several perfect song choices.
Ideas for a sweet song for the mother and son dance at your wedding. The mother son dance is a treasured tradition, and this list provides several perfect song choices.
cocktails
Event planners should be familiar with a variety of cocktail drinks and cocktail drink recipes so that they may incorporate popular and trendy cocktails for their events. These cocktails and their recipes are certain to be a hit.
Event planners should be familiar with a variety of cocktail drinks and cocktail drink recipes so that they may incorporate popular and trendy cocktails for their events. These cocktails and their recipes are certain to be a hit.
Trade Show Etiquette
Corporate and association event planners are often called upon to manage a trade show booth and portions of an exhibit floor. In this capacity, it's important for event planners to advise trade show booth staff about trade show etiquette on the exhibit floor.
Corporate and association event planners are often called upon to manage a trade show booth and portions of an exhibit floor. In this capacity, it's important for event planners to advise trade show booth staff about trade show etiquette on the exhibit floor.
Public Event Guidelines
Nneighborhood organizations host special events in cities at all times throughout the year, such as outdoor festivals, street fairs or carnivals. These require use of public spaces and typically must receive permission from public officials. The Mayor's Office of Special Events in Chicago has created two guides to streamline the process for its community organizations, and these ideas may be adopted to other towns and cities.
Nneighborhood organizations host special events in cities at all times throughout the year, such as outdoor festivals, street fairs or carnivals. These require use of public spaces and typically must receive permission from public officials. The Mayor's Office of Special Events in Chicago has created two guides to streamline the process for its community organizations, and these ideas may be adopted to other towns and cities.
Your First Event Job
If you're searching for your an event job for the first time, it's important to understand just how large this industry is before you begin your search. Here's what you need to know.
If you're searching for your an event job for the first time, it's important to understand just how large this industry is before you begin your search. Here's what you need to know.
Horse Betting
Event planners should be familiar with horse betting and horse racing terms if they are holding an event at an thoroughbred race track. For some guests, this could be the first time they have ever been to the track.
Event planners should be familiar with horse betting and horse racing terms if they are holding an event at an thoroughbred race track. For some guests, this could be the first time they have ever been to the track.
London Eye Events and Facts
Considering a visit to London and wanting to find a unique venue for a group activity? The London Eye may be what you're looking for. Whether you're hosting an event there or wanting to replicate some ideas at another giant ferris wheel structure. Either way, this will be a hit.
Considering a visit to London and wanting to find a unique venue for a group activity? The London Eye may be what you're looking for. Whether you're hosting an event there or wanting to replicate some ideas at another giant ferris wheel structure. Either way, this will be a hit.
Horse Track Dress Code
Event planners should notify guests of required dress code attire for a day at the races.
Event planners should notify guests of required dress code attire for a day at the races.
Event Planner Services
Event planners should create a network of suppliers such as destination management companies, event photographers, stationery shops, chocolatiers and more. The right team will create incredible events and make the event planner look great in the eyes of the client.
Event planners should create a network of suppliers such as destination management companies, event photographers, stationery shops, chocolatiers and more. The right team will create incredible events and make the event planner look great in the eyes of the client.
Wedding Entrance Songs for a Wedding Reception
This article offers creative ideas for wedding entrance songs. With wedding introduction songs in a variety of genres, the list contains many choices for an exciting wedding entrance.
This article offers creative ideas for wedding entrance songs. With wedding introduction songs in a variety of genres, the list contains many choices for an exciting wedding entrance.
Meeting Planning Ideas for Organizing Conventions, Congresses and Conferences
The MPI WEC 2008 offers an excellent opportunity for meeting and event planners to not only gain professional development, it may also be viewed as a learning lab filled with event planning tips for those who are expected to organize conventions, congresses, conferences, seminars and other events.
The MPI WEC 2008 offers an excellent opportunity for meeting and event planners to not only gain professional development, it may also be viewed as a learning lab filled with event planning tips for those who are expected to organize conventions, congresses, conferences, seminars and other events.
Dessert Ideas
Looking to create an intimate experience, but not wanting the complexity of hosting a longer evening affair? Perhaps the best idea is to host a dessert reception. That's what organizers at Encore in Las Vegas chose when launching the new hotel to industry travel writers. Consider hosting a dessert reception based on ideas from their pastry chefs. Learn more.
Looking to create an intimate experience, but not wanting the complexity of hosting a longer evening affair? Perhaps the best idea is to host a dessert reception. That's what organizers at Encore in Las Vegas chose when launching the new hotel to industry travel writers. Consider hosting a dessert reception based on ideas from their pastry chefs. Learn more.
Event Planning Ideas
Looking for event planning ideas for a future program? Whether you're looking for special event planning or corporate event planning ideas, perhaps I can help. Whether it's a program located in your own city or somewhere else around the world, submit your questions to me. As your event planning guide, I'll do my best to offer event planning ideas and may use it for a future column. Learn more.
Looking for event planning ideas for a future program? Whether you're looking for special event planning or corporate event planning ideas, perhaps I can help. Whether it's a program located in your own city or somewhere else around the world, submit your questions to me. As your event planning guide, I'll do my best to offer event planning ideas and may use it for a future column. Learn more.
Spa Treatments
If you're getting ready to plan an incentive trip or large conference that includes a variety of attendee activities, you will need to know what are the most popular spa treatments that attendees and guests prefer.
If you're getting ready to plan an incentive trip or large conference that includes a variety of attendee activities, you will need to know what are the most popular spa treatments that attendees and guests prefer.
Healthy Breakfast Buffet
Sometimes you just want to go off the menu and create your own healthy breakfast buffet for your morning business meeting or event. And while most hotels and caterers offer great packaged and a la carte menu options for clients, sometimes it helps to go that extra mile and ask for very specific ingredients. Check out this menu which was designed for a 100 attendee breakfast meeting with an agenda that was focused on health and wellness.
Sometimes you just want to go off the menu and create your own healthy breakfast buffet for your morning business meeting or event. And while most hotels and caterers offer great packaged and a la carte menu options for clients, sometimes it helps to go that extra mile and ask for very specific ingredients. Check out this menu which was designed for a 100 attendee breakfast meeting with an agenda that was focused on health and wellness.
2009 Calendar
The calendar and holidays impact when event and meeting planners organize various special events. Keep in mind these important holidays and other calendar dates when determining potential conflicts with any programs.
The calendar and holidays impact when event and meeting planners organize various special events. Keep in mind these important holidays and other calendar dates when determining potential conflicts with any programs.
What is CIC?
The Convention Industry Council's 32 member organizations represent more than 103,500 individuals, as well as, 17,300 firms and properties involved in the meetings, conventions and exhibitions industries. The CIC offers its members many tools and programs designed to support the industry and meet its challenges, facilitate the exchange of information and ideas, and ensure its credibility and high standards of quality.
The Convention Industry Council's 32 member organizations represent more than 103,500 individuals, as well as, 17,300 firms and properties involved in the meetings, conventions and exhibitions industries. The CIC offers its members many tools and programs designed to support the industry and meet its challenges, facilitate the exchange of information and ideas, and ensure its credibility and high standards of quality.
Save the Date! Unique Ways to Remind Your Guests About Your Wedding
Five unique and stylish save the dates for your wedding invitations. Remind your guests of your big day with save the dates they will remember. No one will forget your wedding date when you send them a one-of-a-kind wedding save the date!
Five unique and stylish save the dates for your wedding invitations. Remind your guests of your big day with save the dates they will remember. No one will forget your wedding date when you send them a one-of-a-kind wedding save the date!
Golf Meeting
Event planners will find themselves organizing one or more golf meetings each year, so it's helpful to follow some helpful guidelines to ensure a great outing every time.
Event planners will find themselves organizing one or more golf meetings each year, so it's helpful to follow some helpful guidelines to ensure a great outing every time.
Canada Food
Canadian chefs worked together and formed Team Canada at the American Culinary Competition. Event planners should check out their three-course menu when creating an event with a Canadian theme.
Canadian chefs worked together and formed Team Canada at the American Culinary Competition. Event planners should check out their three-course menu when creating an event with a Canadian theme.
Y-ME Breast Cancer Walks
Looking for inspiration for a future fundraising idea? Consider the approach that the Breast Cancer Network of Strength Walk to Empower has become a successful program. Held in 17 cities, these breast cancer walks have raised money and awareness. Learn more.
Looking for inspiration for a future fundraising idea? Consider the approach that the Breast Cancer Network of Strength Walk to Empower has become a successful program. Held in 17 cities, these breast cancer walks have raised money and awareness. Learn more.
Choosing Catering
Event planners must consider several items before selecting catering services for their events, including menu selection, buffet vs. plated arrangements, special needs considerations, and budget items.
Event planners must consider several items before selecting catering services for their events, including menu selection, buffet vs. plated arrangements, special needs considerations, and budget items.
Fundraising Walks
Looking for a new fundraising idea to raise awareness and money for your cause? Consider a fundraising walk. The y-ME Mother's Day Events can serve as a best practice to help guide your planning.
Looking for a new fundraising idea to raise awareness and money for your cause? Consider a fundraising walk. The y-ME Mother's Day Events can serve as a best practice to help guide your planning.
Employee Events at Ice Rinks
Employee appreciation events are a great morale boosters to thank employees. One possible event may be to organize a family skate night at the local ice rink. That's what Delta Hotels chose for its summer employee event. Learn how Delta approached its employee family night behind the scenes.
Employee appreciation events are a great morale boosters to thank employees. One possible event may be to organize a family skate night at the local ice rink. That's what Delta Hotels chose for its summer employee event. Learn how Delta approached its employee family night behind the scenes.
Planning Your Wedding Music
Resources to help you hire a DJ, avoid wedding music planning mistakes, choose wedding songs, and more. Tips for selecting wedding dance songs and making the most of your wedding reception music.
Resources to help you hire a DJ, avoid wedding music planning mistakes, choose wedding songs, and more. Tips for selecting wedding dance songs and making the most of your wedding reception music.
Break Out Session
: A workshop or presentation on a specific topic that serves as a portion of the agenda of a larger program,
: A workshop or presentation on a specific topic that serves as a portion of the agenda of a larger program,
Horse Tracks
If you're considering a unique venue in your town or elsewhere, this listing of thoroughbred horse tracks throughout the U.S. will help streamline some of your research.
If you're considering a unique venue in your town or elsewhere, this listing of thoroughbred horse tracks throughout the U.S. will help streamline some of your research.
Destination Management Company
: A third party firm that is commonly hired to provide professional services for the planning and implementation
: A third party firm that is commonly hired to provide professional services for the planning and implementation
Wedding Music Mistakes to Avoid
Tips to avoid five common planning pitfalls when it comes to wedding music. Wedding reception music should enhance, not detract from, the event. Wedding planners can read this article to learn what mistakes to avoid.
Tips to avoid five common planning pitfalls when it comes to wedding music. Wedding reception music should enhance, not detract from, the event. Wedding planners can read this article to learn what mistakes to avoid.
Caribbean Menu
Caribbean chefs worked together and formed Team Bahamas at the American Culinary Competition. Event planners should check out their three-course menu when creating an event with a Caribbean island theme.
Caribbean chefs worked together and formed Team Bahamas at the American Culinary Competition. Event planners should check out their three-course menu when creating an event with a Caribbean island theme.
Italian Menu
Event planners who are interested in creating an Italian theme or atmosphere for an event may look to this menu for inspiration.
Event planners who are interested in creating an Italian theme or atmosphere for an event may look to this menu for inspiration.
Wedding Planner Career Advice
“Before considering a career in wedding planning, one should understand that there are only a handful of event companies that can hire a wedding planner,” says Marsha Ballard, past president/secretary for AACWP, Dallas, TX. “Many venues hire catering mangers which is very different position than that of an independent wedding planner. In most cases, wedding planners are independent professionals who have started their own businesses.”
“Before considering a career in wedding planning, one should understand that there are only a handful of event companies that can hire a wedding planner,” says Marsha Ballard, past president/secretary for AACWP, Dallas, TX. “Many venues hire catering mangers which is very different position than that of an independent wedding planner. In most cases, wedding planners are independent professionals who have started their own businesses.”
Organize a Bridal Show
Looking to organize -- or attend -- a bridal show and expo? This is a great place for wedding suppliers to promote themselves, and a fun challenge for the bridal show organizer. Learn how.
Looking to organize -- or attend -- a bridal show and expo? This is a great place for wedding suppliers to promote themselves, and a fun challenge for the bridal show organizer. Learn how.
Beach Parties for Conventions
Considering a beach party for your upcoming convention or event? Check out how the Fairmont Hawaii transforms its oceanfront into opening night receptions.
Considering a beach party for your upcoming convention or event? Check out how the Fairmont Hawaii transforms its oceanfront into opening night receptions.
British Menu
Event planners who are interested in creating a British theme or atmosphere for an event may look to this menu for inspiration.
Event planners who are interested in creating a British theme or atmosphere for an event may look to this menu for inspiration.
Wedding Planners Skills
Full service wedding planners typically manages about 12-20 weddings each year, and a wedding day coordinator handles about 50. Learn what organizational skills are required to become a wedding planner.
Full service wedding planners typically manages about 12-20 weddings each year, and a wedding day coordinator handles about 50. Learn what organizational skills are required to become a wedding planner.
Group Air Fares
With air fares accounting for a higher portion of events that require group travel, it's important for event and meeting planners to secure airline discounts for group event air fares. Many airlines offer group travel and event options for planners.
With air fares accounting for a higher portion of events that require group travel, it's important for event and meeting planners to secure airline discounts for group event air fares. Many airlines offer group travel and event options for planners.
Meeting Planning Salaries
And it may be good news to some to hear that meeting professionals increased their compensation by $3,000 vs. 2006, bringing the average salary to nearly $70,000, according to recent survey by PCMA.
And it may be good news to some to hear that meeting professionals increased their compensation by $3,000 vs. 2006, bringing the average salary to nearly $70,000, according to recent survey by PCMA.
Wedding Planning Experience
Successful wedding planners come from all walks of life, and no single profession prepares an individual for this career. So what kind of experience prepare someone to become a wedding planner?
Successful wedding planners come from all walks of life, and no single profession prepares an individual for this career. So what kind of experience prepare someone to become a wedding planner?
Increase Meeting Attendance
With increasing pressure on increasing attendance at business meetings and conventions, event services supplier Daniel Fortin of DNL Logistique in Montreal, Canada, offers 10 tips that event and meeting professions should know.
With increasing pressure on increasing attendance at business meetings and conventions, event services supplier Daniel Fortin of DNL Logistique in Montreal, Canada, offers 10 tips that event and meeting professions should know.
Basic Supply Kit
Every event and meeting planner should have an office supplies kit in storage containers that they can bring with them for event set-up. These items will help prepare any planner to address a range of last minute complications that require business supplies.
Every event and meeting planner should have an office supplies kit in storage containers that they can bring with them for event set-up. These items will help prepare any planner to address a range of last minute complications that require business supplies.
Holiday Party Etiquette
Even though most holiday parties of today aren't the same as many were in the 1990s, that doesn't mean that managers and colleagues aren't observing your behavior patterns at the event. Avoid these potentially career impacting mistakes.
Even though most holiday parties of today aren't the same as many were in the 1990s, that doesn't mean that managers and colleagues aren't observing your behavior patterns at the event. Avoid these potentially career impacting mistakes.
How to Hire an Event Planner
Whether you're looking to hire someone to plan a a family event or to handle your meetings and seminars, keep these steps in mind when hiring an event planner.
Whether you're looking to hire someone to plan a a family event or to handle your meetings and seminars, keep these steps in mind when hiring an event planner.
Should You Be a Wedding Planner?
Many people aspire to a career as a wedding planner, wedding coordinator or wedding consultant. Is wedding planning the right job for you?
Many people aspire to a career as a wedding planner, wedding coordinator or wedding consultant. Is wedding planning the right job for you?
Catering Tips
Although it seems that many restaurants and hotels have preset food and beverage menus, it's important to incorporate popular catering trends into your selections. The National Restaurant Association's 2008 chef survey highlights top items and tips that you may want to incorporate into your next event menu.
Although it seems that many restaurants and hotels have preset food and beverage menus, it's important to incorporate popular catering trends into your selections. The National Restaurant Association's 2008 chef survey highlights top items and tips that you may want to incorporate into your next event menu.
Fam Trip
: A marketing program designed to acquaint event planners with a specific destination. These programs
: A marketing program designed to acquaint event planners with a specific destination. These programs
Events at a Baseball Game
One of the best ways to build relationships with customers and employees is to bring them to a baseball game. The key to successful event planning for a baseball event is to plan early.
One of the best ways to build relationships with customers and employees is to bring them to a baseball game. The key to successful event planning for a baseball event is to plan early.
Community Festivals
Event planners interested in planning neighborhood food festivals must consider several elements, including operations, vendors, programming, marketing and more. Learn how event planners approach the Taste of Chicago.
Event planners interested in planning neighborhood food festivals must consider several elements, including operations, vendors, programming, marketing and more. Learn how event planners approach the Taste of Chicago.
Tip: Incorporate New Emerging Technologies Into Events
Fogscreen is an emerging new technology that will have some exciting applications in the events and meetings industry. This technology allows the creation of projected images onto a stream of fog and create images just about anywhere.
Fogscreen is an emerging new technology that will have some exciting applications in the events and meetings industry. This technology allows the creation of projected images onto a stream of fog and create images just about anywhere.
Choosing Venue
Considerations for choosing the right venue for a successful event include timing, location, facilities, catering, service, budget and management preference. And unless logistics and time absolutely prevent it, every event planner should conduct a site inspection before contracting any venue.
Considerations for choosing the right venue for a successful event include timing, location, facilities, catering, service, budget and management preference. And unless logistics and time absolutely prevent it, every event planner should conduct a site inspection before contracting any venue.
Catering Salaries
Catering and banquets provide a significant number of job opportunities for those interested in opportunities in the events industry. Learn what salary you can expect to earn as a caterer and what it takes.
Catering and banquets provide a significant number of job opportunities for those interested in opportunities in the events industry. Learn what salary you can expect to earn as a caterer and what it takes.
Net Rate and Net Net Rate
What is the difference between Net Rate and Net Net Rate?
What is the difference between Net Rate and Net Net Rate?
Sports Marketers
Sports marketing firms provide upscale hospitality and access to premium tickets to major sporting events throughout the year, including the PGA Tour, Super Bowl, Final Four, World Series and more. Sports marketing sales reps are mostly commission-based, so they rely on a hard sell tactics and name dropping as an attempt to pressure an event planner for attention. How can you determine if you're working with a reputable firm?
Sports marketing firms provide upscale hospitality and access to premium tickets to major sporting events throughout the year, including the PGA Tour, Super Bowl, Final Four, World Series and more. Sports marketing sales reps are mostly commission-based, so they rely on a hard sell tactics and name dropping as an attempt to pressure an event planner for attention. How can you determine if you're working with a reputable firm?
Tip:Event Planning Checklist to Include Pre-Event Meetings by All Parties
As part of the event planning checklist, event and meeting planners hold a final walk through or pre-con meeting with conference managers, including catering services. Prior to the execution of the event, venues hold their own meetings.
As part of the event planning checklist, event and meeting planners hold a final walk through or pre-con meeting with conference managers, including catering services. Prior to the execution of the event, venues hold their own meetings.
Speakers Bureau Trends with Go
Part 2. My conversation with speakers bureau industry leader Diane Goodman continues with detailed information about her personal experiences and perspective on trends in hiring professional speakers - entertainers, industry experts, business leaders, athletes and others - to serve as keynote speakers, emcees, present general sessions, etc.
Part 2. My conversation with speakers bureau industry leader Diane Goodman continues with detailed information about her personal experiences and perspective on trends in hiring professional speakers - entertainers, industry experts, business leaders, athletes and others - to serve as keynote speakers, emcees, present general sessions, etc.
Green Hotel Meeting Ideas
Meeting and event planners should know what sustainability initiatives are being embraced by green hotels and choosing conference and event venues space.
Meeting and event planners should know what sustainability initiatives are being embraced by green hotels and choosing conference and event venues space.
Tip: Determine Professional Development Topics by Skill and Audience Level
Conference organizers are responsible for determining seminar topics for professional development. These topics become break out sessions, and attendees should be given a range of topics targeted to their skill level and development interests.
Conference organizers are responsible for determining seminar topics for professional development. These topics become break out sessions, and attendees should be given a range of topics targeted to their skill level and development interests.
Holiday Party Expenses
Many organizations already account for expenses associated with the annual party by allocating a fixed dollar amount per employee within budgets. Given this, many planners are often challenged with finding ways to save money planning this year's employee holiday party with the same or less than last year's money. Try some of these tips.
Many organizations already account for expenses associated with the annual party by allocating a fixed dollar amount per employee within budgets. Given this, many planners are often challenged with finding ways to save money planning this year's employee holiday party with the same or less than last year's money. Try some of these tips.
Types of Speakers
What are the more popular speaker categories today and who are some of the professional speakers hired by event planners for corporate and association events?
What are the more popular speaker categories today and who are some of the professional speakers hired by event planners for corporate and association events?
Sweet Sendoffs: Wedding Bubbles, Wands, Sparklers, Flower Petals and More
Your wedding guests will love celebrating your wedding ceremony or reception with these wedding bubbles, wedding confetti, wedding rice and other fun ideas. Explore modern wedding favors like wedding sparklers and wedding wands, or something more traditional like wedding flower petals.
Your wedding guests will love celebrating your wedding ceremony or reception with these wedding bubbles, wedding confetti, wedding rice and other fun ideas. Explore modern wedding favors like wedding sparklers and wedding wands, or something more traditional like wedding flower petals.
German Food
Event planners who are interested in creating a German theme or atmosphere for an event may look to this menu for inspiration.
Event planners who are interested in creating a German theme or atmosphere for an event may look to this menu for inspiration.
Event Operations - Service
Whether the staff works directly for the venue or your own organization, it's important to remind them about the importance of a service-oriented attitude to the event.
Whether the staff works directly for the venue or your own organization, it's important to remind them about the importance of a service-oriented attitude to the event.
Sustainability and Hotels
Meeting and event planners interested in establishing green meetings may incorporate these items into their hotel contracts, sample hotel addendum elements, and more.
Meeting and event planners interested in establishing green meetings may incorporate these items into their hotel contracts, sample hotel addendum elements, and more.
Speakers Bureaus with Goodman
Part 1. A conversation with speakers bureau industry leader Diane Goodman about the process of hiring professional speakers - entertainers, industry experts, business leaders, athletes and others - to serve as keynote speakers, emcees, present general sessions, etc.
Part 1. A conversation with speakers bureau industry leader Diane Goodman about the process of hiring professional speakers - entertainers, industry experts, business leaders, athletes and others - to serve as keynote speakers, emcees, present general sessions, etc.
Keynote Speaker
Before selecting a keynote speaker, follow some basic steps that will help assure internal executive support.
Before selecting a keynote speaker, follow some basic steps that will help assure internal executive support.
Team Building Wine Tasting
Looking for ways to incorporate team building ideas and activities into your next event. Consider these 15 corporate team building activities. Learn more.
Looking for ways to incorporate team building ideas and activities into your next event. Consider these 15 corporate team building activities. Learn more.
Dimmer Board
: A control panel with a combination of switches to control lighting conditions for a meeting room and
: A control panel with a combination of switches to control lighting conditions for a meeting room and
How to Choose a Great First Dance Song
This article will help wedding planners to assist their clients in choosing a wedding first dance song with style, personality and panache. Read to learn more about how to choose the perfect first dance song for a wedding.
This article will help wedding planners to assist their clients in choosing a wedding first dance song with style, personality and panache. Read to learn more about how to choose the perfect first dance song for a wedding.
Theater Events
Considering a theater event for a future program? Check out how the Colosseum Caesars Palace can convert its theater venue into business theater.
Considering a theater event for a future program? Check out how the Colosseum Caesars Palace can convert its theater venue into business theater.
Tip: Encourage Next Year's Convention Host to Sponsor at This Year's Convention
Convention planners should create excitement for next year's convention during this year's convention, when likely attendees are open to learning more. Next year's hosts may be an excellent source of an important sponsorship during this year's event.
Convention planners should create excitement for next year's convention during this year's convention, when likely attendees are open to learning more. Next year's hosts may be an excellent source of an important sponsorship during this year's event.
Strategic Meetings Management
Meeting and event professionals are increasingly being asked to measure the impact of their programs, and adopt strategic management concepts. Ultimately, it helps to ensure the success of events and achieve bottom line results. Steve O'Malley of Maxavantage offers 10 tips for a strategic meetings management program.
Meeting and event professionals are increasingly being asked to measure the impact of their programs, and adopt strategic management concepts. Ultimately, it helps to ensure the success of events and achieve bottom line results. Steve O'Malley of Maxavantage offers 10 tips for a strategic meetings management program.
Wedding Planners' Emergency Kit: Supplies to Prevent Wedding Day Emergencies
This article offers suggestions for must-have items for the wedding day emergency kit. Learn how to prevent wedding day emergencies in this checklist of essential emergency items.
This article offers suggestions for must-have items for the wedding day emergency kit. Learn how to prevent wedding day emergencies in this checklist of essential emergency items.
Spanish Food for a Reception
For anyone interested in hosting a cocktail reception with a Spanish food theme, perhaps they should consider some of these traditional Spanish menu items.
For anyone interested in hosting a cocktail reception with a Spanish food theme, perhaps they should consider some of these traditional Spanish menu items.
Hosted Tours
International event and meeting planners may familiarize themselves with a variety of destinations around the world by attending hosted tours that are tied to international trade shows.
International event and meeting planners may familiarize themselves with a variety of destinations around the world by attending hosted tours that are tied to international trade shows.
Online Event Registration
Many online event registration software options have been created and are now available to help event planners. We have reviewed some of the popular online event registration systems out there.
Many online event registration software options have been created and are now available to help event planners. We have reviewed some of the popular online event registration systems out there.
Sustainble Trade Show Booths
Sustainable trade show exhibit booths should be designed to make building the stand easy while minimizing the environmental impact of the trade show. Learn more.
Sustainable trade show exhibit booths should be designed to make building the stand easy while minimizing the environmental impact of the trade show. Learn more.
Wedding Candy Buffets: A Sweet Ending to Your Wedding
Instructions for how to select candy, display containers, and take-home containers for a wedding candy buffet. Wedding candy in every color scheme. Creative display options and links to further wedding candy buffet resources.
Instructions for how to select candy, display containers, and take-home containers for a wedding candy buffet. Wedding candy in every color scheme. Creative display options and links to further wedding candy buffet resources.
Registration Desk
: Location at the event where event organizers set-up a table or booth to upon arrival for for attendees.
: Location at the event where event organizers set-up a table or booth to upon arrival for for attendees.
Tip: Organization Leaders Set the Stage for Meeting Agenda at Opening Remarks
Organization leaders are expected to outline the meeting agenda and provide opening remarks for general sessions at conventions, congresses, seminars and other events. Bruce MacMillan, president and CEO of MPI, Dallas, defined the meeting agenda for MPI WEC 2008 during his opening remarks.
Organization leaders are expected to outline the meeting agenda and provide opening remarks for general sessions at conventions, congresses, seminars and other events. Bruce MacMillan, president and CEO of MPI, Dallas, defined the meeting agenda for MPI WEC 2008 during his opening remarks.
Sites to Help You Choose Wedding Music
Look here for the most helpful websites as you plan your wedding ceremony music and wedding reception music. These sites contain lists of wedding songs, often with lyrics and videos. Select the perfect wedding music for you with the help of these sites.
Look here for the most helpful websites as you plan your wedding ceremony music and wedding reception music. These sites contain lists of wedding songs, often with lyrics and videos. Select the perfect wedding music for you with the help of these sites.
Evaluating Restaurants
Event planners often rely on private spaces at restaurants to host a vaiety of special events. Learn more about how to evaluate a restaurant before contracting your event somewhere.
Event planners often rely on private spaces at restaurants to host a vaiety of special events. Learn more about how to evaluate a restaurant before contracting your event somewhere.
Meeting Jobs Resume Tips
Meeting and event jobs are challenging and rewarding. But this is a competitive industry. Dawn Penfold, president of Meetingsjobs.com, offers 10 tips to recession-proof your resume.
Meeting and event jobs are challenging and rewarding. But this is a competitive industry. Dawn Penfold, president of Meetingsjobs.com, offers 10 tips to recession-proof your resume.
Convention Industry Council
: A federation of national and international organizations representing individuals, firms or properties
: A federation of national and international organizations representing individuals, firms or properties
Sponsor ROI
U.S. Cellular and Eli's Cheesecake explain how awareness and driving revenue are keys to sponsorship decisions for community festivals.
U.S. Cellular and Eli's Cheesecake explain how awareness and driving revenue are keys to sponsorship decisions for community festivals.
Corporate Gifts
What companies are the top suppliers of trinkets, tchotchkes or promotional products? Businesses invest significant money on corporate merchandising programs. Event planning budgets incorporate corporate gifts, so it's important to source from reputable promotional distributors.
What companies are the top suppliers of trinkets, tchotchkes or promotional products? Businesses invest significant money on corporate merchandising programs. Event planning budgets incorporate corporate gifts, so it's important to source from reputable promotional distributors.
Tip: Fundraising Ideas Should Evolve Around Annual Meetings
Perhaps the best place to for an association or organization to hold a fundraising event is during its annual convention. Fundraising ideas should incorporate local themes and entertainment that individuals may not be able to attend elsewhere.
Perhaps the best place to for an association or organization to hold a fundraising event is during its annual convention. Fundraising ideas should incorporate local themes and entertainment that individuals may not be able to attend elsewhere.
Personal Touches Create Unique Weddings
Curious about how to incorporate your personal style into a unique wedding that reflects who you are as a couple? Check out these five ideas.
Curious about how to incorporate your personal style into a unique wedding that reflects who you are as a couple? Check out these five ideas.