You know you’ve got some great clients + potential clients. And spoiling them with a party has likely crossed your mind. But what a daunting (and possibly costly) task.
Most people expect good food, drinks and company from a party. If there’s a theme and some entertainment – that’s bonus.
Photography by Ron Sombilon Gallery
So how do you create a remarkable event without extravagant pricing? Here are some tried and true suggestions:
1. Partner up. Think of businesses that could use some exposure and work together to create something memorable. Some examples may include:
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neighbourhood restaurant/pub
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caterers
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coffee shops
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printing company
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spa | hair salon
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fashion boutique
Utilizing another business’s facility or speciality has many benefits. Most notably include promotion of the event through their network and the offsetting of costs as you “share” your customer base.
2. Choose your food and beverage quantities wisely. Of course, you won’t want to run out of either, but if you are footing the bill (meaning you haven’t coveted an alcohol or food sponsor/partner) you’ll want to be careful about how you make your purchases.
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Mix catered dishes with purchased snacks (ex. crackers, breads, chocolates)
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Buy beverages that can be returned. In BC for example, unopened liquor can be returned to government liquor stores
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Work with a caterer who understands your budget and needs and can help create something spectacular.
3. Pick a theme tied to a cause. Support a charity and show your community spirit. You’ll have an easier time getting donations for your event. You may even have luck forming a theme via the charity. Supporting Dress for Success’s theme could be a dress up event where WaterCan’s could be “everything in blue.”
4. Choosing to work with an expert may seem expensive at first, until you breakdown how much money you’ll likely save as a result of the connections, discounts and money saving techniques an event planner has.
5. Music is part of the fun. Do you know of any local bands that your clientele would also like? If you can’t afford to hire a DJ, consider renting speakers and creating a great playlist. (If you don’t have a musical ear – ask a musical friend. You might be surprised that they are happy to put together a playlist that they can add to their IPod later.)
6. Make sure your event is remembered long after the party hats are put away. Send your guests home with a gift. Goodie bags that have a good surprise in them are always crowd pleasers. (Try not to crowd the bag with too much promotional material). I have used Ultimate Gift Cards for some of my most recent events and they have been quite powerful. Both cost effective and impactful.
You will also want to look into any permits you’ll need such as a special event liquor license.
And, for every event you do, make sure you use what you’ve learned and accumulated on your next event. Write to do and check lists before your event and revise afterward. Add it to the file of things you need to throw your own successful party.
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