Should you hire an event planner?

April 6, 2023Lauren Windle

Event planners are trained and experienced professionals who manage every detail of an event from the first planning stages through the end of the event.

According to Jacquie Bols, owner/operator of Jacquie’s Gourmet Catering, a qualified, experienced event planner can “make just about any special event run more smoothly and efficiently – with fewer hiccups.”

When you think about it, that makes sense. Most people might plan a couple of larger events in their lifetimes, but an experienced event planner has planned hundreds. They will know what is needed, what should be ordered, from whom and when, as well as what to avoid and why.

Planners are experts at choosing the right location for the right event. They come up with appropriate themes, negotiate contracts, make sure appropriate licenses are in place, hire and supervise vendors, figure out workable event flow patterns, determine parking, rent equipment, manage budgets, decorate, and handle clean up.

How are they paid? Event planners can structure their fees in several different ways. Some charge a flat rate, while others set up an hourly rate based on what specific services you need. For large or commercial events, some planners get paid based on a percentage of what you spend. (You might even find that you can save money by having an event planner work directly with vendors to stay within your budget.)

Let’s face it, planning an event takes real work. , outlining what they will and will not do before signing a contract. You’ll also want to figure out how and when they get paid – and what to do in case of cancellation.

Once you hire an event planner, you can relax and turn the details over to the expert. (If you need a referral, just ask Jacquie’s Gourmet Catering staff. We will be happy to help you.)

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