About Randy Markus

Randy is a hospitality professional with over 20 years of experience in the meetings and events industry. Utilizing her skills and business acumen as well as her enthusiasm, customer loyalty and penchant for detail, with both national and international groups alike, has helped grow Welcome to the City Inc. into one of Toronto's premier destination management companies. Randy brings formidable skills to the tasks at hand as a problem-solver, a genuine people-person and with years of hospitality experience has helped drive Welcome To The City's latest venture, WTTC.com, to its current level of success, making it the largest independent online resource in North America for the events, meetings and conventions industry.

Where Do Event Planners Find Motivation?

May 21, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

In our ongoing series about motivation, today we are going to tackle a topic that I have been very curious about; where do event planners find motivation. Event planning is definitely a challenging career and takes hard work and great organizational skills. But what about those days where your get up and go has without a doubt got up and gone. At a recent industry event I happen on a group of meeting planners talking job motivation and the different methods they use to help. So I will be addressing the findings in this not so scientific inquiry.

Possibly the reason I am choosing to write about where to find motivation has everything to do with my recent lack of. I am pretty much deep in like with my job. I really do enjoy all the ins and outs involved in planning meetings and events. I’m the type that once I hit my desk it’s all about plowing through the piles of work. And when it does come time to execute I do love being on site and all that that involves. But like so many of us sometimes it’s just plain old hard to find the
motivation to get it all done.

Motivation Starts Here!

As individuals we are all unique and how a company motivates an individual can be entirely different then how a person motivate themselves. Stressed out or unhappy at your job? The key to turning it around is to understand what will help you to motivate you.

Set Goals – Who among us doesn’t like to be challenged? It helps to make us to feel like we’re part of something amazing, it provides job growth as well as helps to increase dedication and really so much more. The greater the challenge is, the greater the feeling of success and motivation becomes once it’s accomplished. When talking motivation, one of the best places to start is to understand ourselves and what actions will motivate us. It truly does depend on the person and scenario; different people succeed by making use of different goal motivators. Are you; a leader, a problem solver, an ideas creator or an office motivator? Remember realizing your strengths and establishing goals to help better yourself, others and your job will definitely help in the area of self-motivation.

Create a Happy Work Atmosphere – It’s key to set-up and work in an atmosphere that supports your objectives and goals. It can be hard not to get consumed with an organization’s issues and concerns, creating a negative work environment. As Heidie Golledge, CEO and cofounder of CareerBliss, an online career database says, “Being able to be truly happy at work is one of the keys to being happy in life”. When you work in an atmosphere with people that you like, you’re extra likely; to learn more and faster, be inspired and productive, think outside the box and have more energy. Aren’t we all more likely to find motivation working in a stimulating, fulfilling and yes happy work environment?

Say NO to Negativity – Sometimes it’s hard to not get immersed in all things negative. And it has been said and proven that happy people do in fact make successful people. It is easy for any of us to become consumed in negative thoughts and feelings. The best way to find motivation is to replace negative thoughts with positiveness. Access the qualities of a person you admire or if given the chance you would choose to work with; what are they like, how do others respond to them, how do they deal with others, for instance. And don’t forget a positive person radiates confidence, self-control, calmness and grace under pressure, to name a few, all qualities within our grasp. If we can identify what it takes, we can make the changes to become that positive person that won’t need to look far when seeking motivation.

It’s been said a time or two before applying the strategies to self-motivate, the best place to start is to understand motivation and discover what in fact does motivates you. Ask yourself; how does personal emotions and home life factor into my thoughts and what can I do to not only better motivate myself but support my reasons too.

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: eventplanning, events, motivation, planning, Self-Help

Need Help Cocktail Party Planning?

May 16, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

Photo courtesy of NinaZed

I always feel a bit of extra stress whenever I am planning a party. As a person that plans events for a living, I am constantly asked “how to” planning questions from friends and family organizing their own parties. The latest round of questions was all about cocktail party planning and tips to ensure an enjoyable and delicious time. As it happens cocktail parties are my most favorite parties to organize. They are easy peasy to plan, filled with fun and pretty low cost when it comes to the budget.

The three main recipe fixings for a traditional yet successful cocktail party is; planning, friends and the menu. Cocktail parties are a great way to catch-up and have some plain old friend fun. Classically a cocktail party lasts for about three or four hours and incudes a scrumptious array of food and of course cocktails while providing the opportunity to enjoy friends.
Really the secret to any great party is when the stress free host has just as much fun as the invited guests.

Cocktail Party Planning Tip One – It’s All About the Planning

Enjoyable parties don’t happen by accident. When it comes to planning we all want to throw the best possible party. And even the most basic of parties require some pre-thinking and foresight. By taking the time to think ahead and then mix it with a bit of planning and creativity, will provide the perfect combination for a stress free party experience.

First and foremost ask yourself; what kind of party do I want to throw? And once you’ve answer that question and decided on formal and elegant or informal and laid back, you can begin the planning process. As mentioned, planning and preparation is the key to any party’s success. And when cocktail party planning and looking for an effortless experience, it is essential to track all and I do mean all, the require items and tasks on a checklist. Be sure to take into account the theme, food, beverages, rentals, decorations and entertainment, and every other thing needed and then determine a budget. And a checklist and budget are definitely no good unless you put it to use.

Cocktail Party Planning Tip Two – It’s All About the Friends

An important part of cocktail party planning is creating the just right guest list. For so many reasons it’s crucial to make and be true to a guest list; first to ensure no one is missed, second so you don’t go over budget and third so the number of guests you invite can in deed fit the space.

It goes without saying you want to invite a group of likable and interesting people, that love socializing over good food and drinks and enjoy a groovy shindig. In part party success depends on guests that are outgoing, gregarious and able to engage in stimulating conversation. So make your list and yes check it twice, consider the different people and their personalities, how they will or won’t intermingle and ask yourself, are they the right fit for this party or not. Good guests make for a good party and compatibility is definitely the name of the game to keep the conversation flowing and the party entertaining. Compatibility is definitely the name of the game to keep the conversation flowing and the party entertaining. Don’t forget good guests make for a good party.

Cocktail Party Planning Tip Three – It’s All About the Menu

A great thing about a cocktail party is the guests are able to socialize while at the same time enjoy a beverage or more and a bite. When talking menu my first bit of advice is to follow the KISS rule, keep it simple silly. Simplify the menu and don’t make thing too difficult for yourself. If you think you have to be all things to all people and provide a huge variety of fixings’ you will end up spending too much and generating way to much work. With enough time even if the budget is tight you can create a wonderfully delicious yet simple spread. So be creative with your menu options and make life easier while helping to control costs. Consider serving easy to make (and delicious) hors d’oeuvres and appetizer platters. And keep in mind guests will forgo dinner and load up on party hors d’oeuvres and it is the task of the host to balance it all out, providing enough food without having lots of leftovers. Typically I plan for at least ten different kinds of hors d’oeuvres and assume on average a guest will consume 10-20 pieces.

Of course when throwing a cocktail party it is imperative to have cocktails. When it comes to the bar, we all have the fear we’ll run out of something. So we think we have to overstock it with every single thing and lots of it. So not true! A good bar should be stocked with wine and beer and a variety of liquors and fixings to make your friend’s favs as well as the in-style drinks. Remember the bar should be set up and ready prior to the guests’ arrival. And don’t forget about extra, cause you will need it ice, glassware, garnishes and plenty of non-alcoholic beverages. Once you have an idea of the bar set up you will want to estimate the amount of supplies necessary to accommodate your guests. On average each guest will consume two drinks within the first hour and then one drink every hour after that.

It is true a cocktail party can be one of the easier parties to host. The majority of work can be accomplished long before the party guests arrive. So when it’s party time the host can enjoy the party along with the guests. Don’t forget a successful cocktail party one that has that perfect combination of planning, friends, food and drink. It falls on the host to be sure the cocktails, nibbles and conversation is a rockin and a rolling and before you know it your party will be filled with lots of laughter and fun.

Filed Under: Planning Parties Tagged With: cocktail party, hosting tips, parties, party, planning

Going Green with the Colorado Convention Center

May 14, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

Blue bear looking into the window of the colorado convention center

Photo courtesy of teh Colorado Convention Center

By making small adjustments and modifications, a convention center can make a substantial and impressive impact.

The green, eco-friendly crusade started small and developed into the sustainable infrastructure it has become today. Whether it is at home or at work the “green” passion has stretched across the globe. Phrases like eco-friendly and green have become popular and key words in our vocabulary when it comes to describing the planet and our environment. Everywhere you look and everything you read says green is the new black. Meaning it is in trend to be eco-friendly and green in your home life as well as in your business. There was a time when just the thought of being green and living an eco-friendly lifestyle was a turn off and automatically brought on thoughts of being a tree huger. But we have come a long way baby and now it is all about living the best possible life including the impact our actions have on the globe.

Being green and eco-friendly means respecting our planet and being aware and mindful of how we use our water, energy, products and sources in relation to the environment and our everyday world. It means respecting our environment and the ecosystem and amongst other things incorporating into daily life and work whenever possible; composting and the three R’s reduce, recycle, reuse. And these days being green and eco-friendly is definitely easier than you think.

Why is it important to work with an Eco-Friendly Green Convention Center?

Within the meetings and conventions industry, there has been a rise in the understanding and appreciation of what it means to be eco-friendly and green. While at the same time venues and convention centers are implementing ways to help the planet by saving energy and water, employing recycling practices, buying locally, donating excess, reducing pollution, using eco-friendlier transportation substitutes and utilizing natural and ecologically aware products.

Meeting planners have embraced and supported the standards and principals required to guide the industry and those determined to produce more environmentally balanced business settings that inspire the on-going development of greener convention centers and venues. And whenever possible implement and uphold eco-friendly procedures to ensure future greener meetings and events.

What Makes the Colorado Convention Center Eco-Friendly and Green?

The $64,000 question; what does make the Colorado Convention Center eco-friendly?

“Denver is a natural fit for green meetings and events”. That is one of the more important things you’ll hear when in the city of Denver and talking about the Colorado Convention Center. Denver, yes the city, is committed to the sustainable development and ecologically-friendly practices that help to develop a green Denver as well as green meetings. And when Governor John Hickenlooper was mayor, he realized how important sustainability was so he developed a program called Greenprint Denver. The program provides leadership and solutions to ensure a prosperous community where people and nature thrive.

The ultimate in goals is to make all events held at the Colorado Convention Center eco-friendly, removing that imaginary line between a standard event and a green event. Always searching and striving for new procedures, practices and guidelines while retaining the ones that work operationally and adapting the ones that don’t. Due to the efforts to become eco-friendly and green the Colorado Convention Center has received the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), the EMS 14001 Certification as part of CCC City and County of Denver Overall Certification as well as being recognized by the Colorado Meeting and Events magazine as the Best Green Meeting Facility in 2009.

What is the Eco-Friendly Focus of the Colorado Convention Center?

The Colorado Convention Center has focused their sustainable efforts in the following areas:

• Energy Reduction and Alternative Sources
• Waste Reduction and Diversion
• Water Consumption and Quality
• Air quality and alternative transportation
• Community

And as the first venue to receive certification as a venue which meets the ASTM Environmentally Sustainable Meetings, Events, Trade Shows, and Conferences (E2774-11), the Colorado Convention Center continually aspires to lead the industry in terms of sustainable practices. Their robust commitment to sustainability also includes a 300-kilowatt solar power system and they take their commitment to being eco-friendly very seriously by having a program manager available on site ready to answer questions about anything relating to sustainability.

Simply said, eco-friendly means earth friendly. How a convention center is built is of the utmost of importance but is only part of the picture. The structure, how it is operated as well as how it is reducing its impact on the environment are equally significant. We all have to do our part, whether at home or in business by implementing the best green practises whenever possible.

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: eventprofs, Green, meetingprofs, meetings, planning, sustainable

A Top Notch Event Planner, What’s it All About?

May 9, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

Photo courtesy of enokson

When thinking about the job of an event planner, it is often believed the profession is heavy on the fun and light on the workload. And that couldn’t be farther from the actual truth. The responsibilities associated with planning an event are a huge undertaking. What with all the time consuming details, organizing, multitasking and plain old fashioned work that is involved. And while I do love my job, I regularly say if work were meant to be fun it would be called play.

An event planner oversees and is responsible to coordinate and execute events and meetings of every size. And the work is filled with countless tasks, details and challenges. Planning an event is a huge undertaking and working with a good planner will help to manage everything from start to finish.

Six Must Have Qualities of a Top Notch Event Planner

Before the search for a planner begins, it is important to have a vision and understand the kind of event you want to plan as well as the things to look for in a top notch event planner.

1. People Skills – To be effective and successful in their job, it is imperative for an event planner to be able to negotiate, work, communicate and interact with all sorts of people including customers, suppliers, attendees and VIPs. To possess people skills and the ability and knack to deal with individuals in all kinds of situations with tact, skill and subtlety is vital in an event planner’s position.

2. Organization – Organization is a big part of successful event planning. It cannot be over said, there are never enough hours in a day to get through it all. And really an event planner’s job requires them to be all things to all people. To be successful, it is essential to be able to; think on your feet, multi task, apply attention to detail and so much more while at the same time retain all the information. Good organizational skills will help a planner to elude some of those last minute complications and help an event planner come to the table prepared for everything including problems.

3. Industry Experience/Knowledge – An important part of an event planner’s job is not only to stay on top of all the latest and greatest industry trends but have an understanding of them as well. Customers are attracted to an event planner in part due to their expertise and know- how. A great event planner is one that while an event is happening has the ability to understand as well as the knowledge, experience and expertise to oversee and rectify any situation, no matter what the circumstances, environment and surroundings are.

4. Flexibility – Flexibility is a must for an event planner to do their job effectively. In all stages of event planning, a planner must tackle an array of last minute tasks and challenges. If there’s one thing I know for sure when it comes to planning an event, there will always be changes. And the ability to be flexible and adaptable and react on site without missing a beat is second to none.

5. Problem Solving – Let’s face it, with every job there is bound to be some hitches and glitches, but for event planners this can be particularly true. Problem solving is a crucial skill for an event planner. Without problem solving it would be impossible for an event planner to effectively do their job. To be victorious an event planner must be able to problem solve right on the spot. It really is up to the planner to ensure that no matter what the problem or issue is they are able to react behind the scenes and keep it all on track.

6. Passion – The mystery to being a successful event planner is passion. A successful professional enjoys and loves what they do and an event planner is no different. Event planning takes blood, sweat and at times a tear or two along with hard work, time, creativity and most importantly passion. The mission is to plan and execute a perfect event with as few glitches as possible and all with a smile. One of the more amazing parts of our industry is that we are always learning new things and with each new event provides the chance to engage in new challenges and ignites the flame of passion.

In my experience, the key to success lies in the details. And in the long run an experienced eagle eye is the ticket. An event planner will not only save you time but money as well. They will manage everything from start to finish. So you want to ensure to partner with the person that is perfect for you. Be sure to ask questions and communicate your needs and wants as it is so essential when choosing and working with the right event planner.

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: eventplanning, eventprofs, events, planning

Besides Conventions What Else is a Convention Center Used For?

May 7, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

Photo courtesy of lumierefl

For some years now it has been said that key North American convention center business has been decreasing. For what literally seems a like a life time convention centers have relied on conferences and conventions for success and revenue. The steadfast focus was to secure the big business of conferences and conventions, citywide and the like, and if additional outside the box business was booked that was icing on the cake.

Business can be fickle and like with so many industries convention center sales can go up and of course what goes up must eventually come down. Convention centers are no longer just for conferences and conventions. With an ever changing horizon in the meetings market, when it comes to using and booking convention centers, the previous tested and proved business of conventions and conferences is now no longer the only game in town. And with a downward trend it is essential to respond in the best way possible to avoid a dip and decline and as that old saying goes when given lemons make lemonade.

So when conference and convention bookings are declining and the building facilities are still available, in what other ways can the space still be utilized?

Benefits of Using a Convention Center for Weddings

Convention centers provide the ultimate backdrop and space for weddings, delivering all the benefits of a strong and commanding venue along with the intimacy and warmth of a special celebration. Convention centers are a one stop shop, full service destination, able to assist in making preparations for everything from music to decorations to cake and so much more. They are great stress relievers offering, with the bride in mind options as well as personal and customize packages.

From a small and intimate celebration to the grandest of weddings, convention centers make for a perfect setting for that most special day. Centrally and conveniently located with an abundance of hotel accommodations, personalized and professional services and valuable amenities make a convention center the perfect venue for a wedding.

Benefits of Using a Convention Center for Green Events

Back in the day, it’s an understatement to say it was difficult to find a convention center that applied the three R’s reduce, reuse and recycle, let alone one that was considered environmentally friendly. These days there is definitely an increase in the number of North American convention centers that are going or have already gone green. By taking the lead, committing to creating and implementing guidelines and policies that will reduce the influence and effect our actions have on the environment and offering an environmentally green responsible venue, a green convention center can help organize not only a successful event a sustainable one as well.

When a convention center is committed to being green, dedicated to the best green practices and has a strong commitment to the environment, it’s easier than you think to hold a green sustainable event. Working closely with the convention center service team, all equipped with a full and comprehensive understanding of not only green practices but customer needs as well makes a convention centre the perfect spot for your event. Creating, executing and enforcing green guidelines do in-fact help to lessen the effect our actions have on the planet. Making hosting a green event at a convention center a win-win situation.

Businesses constantly face the challenge to be more inventive, state-of-the-art and ground-breaking to compete. Convention centers are constantly looking to connect, amaze and exceed customer expectations in the most remarkable, outstanding and unforgettable way, to impress clients and win business. When searching for venues look outside the box. Consider venues for your events that you may not have considered in the past. When it comes to convention centers there is no detail or request that is too big or too small and they can provide the perfect environment, eco-friendly environment that is for any celebration or event.

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: conventioncenters, eventplanning, events, Green, planning, sustainable, venues, Weddings

Are you Interested in Getting the Best from Your Flight and Hotel Bookings?

May 2, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

When it comes to booking the ingredients including flights and hotels for fabulous trips and vacations do you know where to go for the industry’s best deals? I know when it comes to business travel I’m on auto drive and go straight to the same old, same old suppliers whether it be online or not. I am a big believer in loyalty but when it comes to family trips or vacations I definitely want the best possible prices, deals and experiences. Plus who knew, apparently there are all kinds of secrets and surprises we can finagle when securing hotels and flights.

Do You Get the Most from Your Flight and Hotel Bookings?

It has often been said that the way to procure the best trip experience is by leveraging reward points, flight status and promotions. Having said that, there are situations when price does come first and the overall trip experience is a close second or it’s all about how do I get the best price now. Whether you’re like my brother in law and are on a business trip almost every week or only travel for fun. Whether you are spontaneous and secure hotels and flights at the last minute; or plan excursions way ahead of time. There are lots of great tips available to help.

Great Tips to Get the Most from Your Flight and Hotel Bookings

So while on the treadmill yesterday morning my TV was tuned to one of my favs The Today Show and as luck would have it, the lovely Nilou Motamed of Travel + Leisure Magazine shared her advice on how to make the most of your travel experiences. She provided some of her greatest tips including where and when to book hotels and flights that will save you the most money, how to get the best deals as well as all the ins and outs of scoring the biggest savings and bonuses.

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Filed Under: Tools & Guides, Videos Tagged With: Hotel, hotels, planning, tourism, travel, Travelogues, vacations

Eco Friendly Party Planning Where Less Becomes More!

April 30, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

Photo courtesy of Visual Artist Frank Bonilla

This weekend I helped a friend with her eco friendly party planning and the experience was special. About four months ago she approached me and asked for some assistance. She wanted to plan and host a birthday party for her significant other and her idea was to throw a rocking bash in the most eco friendly way as possible. She continues to inspire me daily as she is a big proponent of the three R’s; reduce, reuse and recycle, all in the effort to help reduce the excess that can end up in the garbage.

Parties are all about indulging, pampering and treating the guest of honor in an extraordinarily special way. When you think party planning you think about all you can do; plotting, organizing and shopping to create just that kind of an event. But when party planning strategizing, so many of us don’t consider the importance of being green, reducing consumption and utilizing environmentally sound resources.

The Key to Eco Friendly Party Planning!

As we went about organizing the celebration making and executing the party decisions; for invites, food, drinks, decorations and the like there was one major stipulation. The plan was that after the party guests had enjoyed, consumed and departed and clean-up was completed we would be left with only one bag of garbage. Yep you heard it here; the strategy was after all was said and done to incorporate only reusable, recyclable and compostable elements so that our only souvenir would be one, one bag of garbage. I for one was incredibly skeptical and didn’t think for one second it could be done. But that didn’t stop us from trying and I’m happy to admit I was wrong and we were able to accomplish our plan. And this experience really did change the way I think about being green when it comes to executing parties and events.

One of the more important factors, I did learned was that when it comes to achieving a successful eco friendly party; the key is planning, planning, planning.

Tips to Get Started Eco Friendly Party Planning

You can easily plan an eco friendly, tasteful get-together without giving up on any of the style, pleasure and joy. With some thought and preparation, you can throw a fabulous party that is not only eco friendly and good for the planet but is as equally enjoyable for your guests. So say so long (for a night) to your garbage can and hello to party planning tips:

Invitations – There are all sorts of ways to invite guests while at the same time saving the planet and staying green. Use that newfangled invention, the phone and call or go the paperless route and send invitations by utilizing your favorite site like Evite.com or Punchbowl.com. Or just log onto the computer and send out an email with all the details. For my friend’s party we went the way of seed paper, we outlined all the details on wildflower seed paper, hand delivered them which can be planted after the party.

Decorations – When it comes to decorating at an eco friendly party a bit of creativity will go a long way. As a substitute to running out to the store and spending more money; why not reuse decorations from previous bashes, integrate items from around the home, go with real plates, glasses, cutlery, table linens and napkins instead of going the paper or disposal route and if due to size going the disposable direction is imperative be sure to check out the eco friendly types. And what about utilizing the natural light whenever possible, using local potted plants, flowers and actual fruit and vegetables for centerpieces and to beautify. Try and keep away from disposable almost anything when possible, as it almost always ends up in the trash. When it comes to eco friendly decorating, a good recommendation is to consider cloth in place of paper and paper in place of plastic. It is surprising how many different ways there are to reuse, re-purpose and recycle things that at some point were believed to be garbage.

Food – What you serve at your environmentally friendly party can have a huge effect on the party’s over all eco footprint. And when it comes to planning an eco friendly party menu it all starts with the food so first and foremost think seasonal and think local. It has been said purchasing locally produced foods is one of the greatest things one can do to be green. And by going with “in season” locally sourced food will certainly make a difference to your bottom line and save you some buckaroos. There are many ways to reduce our environmental influence on what we are eating and drinking by being aware of packaging, greenhouse emissions and the use of fertilizers and pesticides, make a point of understanding how and what is produced and grown in your area. If you cater your party choose a caterer that is eco friendly and uses organic and local ingredients.

Waste – Set your game plan to zero waste. The whole point of an eco friendly party is to generate as little waste as possible. During the party make it easy for your guests to recycle by setting up recycling and compost bins around the party space. And when clearing up be sure to take time to sort things out and put them in the appropriate bins. And when everyone has departed and it’s time to clean up; shun severe chemicals and use only green cleaning products

You can definitely make a statement by making the right eco friendly choices. Just ask Glad.com where they say “Small changes can make a big difference. Like when you reduce landfill waste at your next event to just one bag, and send the rest to recycling and composting.” It’s easier than you think to plan a party and stay environmentally conscious at the same time. We can all help eradicate excessive waste by utilizing items that we already have and that can be recycled, reused and re-purposed.

Filed Under: Planning Parties Tagged With: Entertaining, Green, parties, party, planning, sustainable

How Do I get Event Planning Experience?

April 25, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

Photo courtesy of Sean MacEntee

Ever thought about a career in event planning? If I’ve been asked once I’ve been asked a hundred times, how do I get event planning experience? For some just the thought of planning events for a living really is a dream come true.

An event planner is responsible to organize the operations and logistical components for a meeting or event program. They are in charge of the planning and executing of events from public to private, corporate to weddings, meetings to receptions and everything else in between. Tasks include everything from; budget and contract negotiations, finding locations and venues, securing service providers and entertainment, choosing decor and food and in general taking care of each and every detail required for small and large meetings and events alike.

What is an Event Planning Career About?

Event planning is an exciting and fast paced career. Of course it takes a lot more than a passion for parties or planning to be successful. You got to have an arsenal of expertise and abilities including people skills, strong attention to detail, the ability to work under pressure and experience. And whether the task at hand is a reception gala, convention or wedding the common thread is events and meetings bring together individuals for a shared reason. The responsibility of the event planner is to make sure that the shared reason is accomplished flawlessly coordinating every single element from start to finish.

SO How Do I Get Event Planning Experience?

Event planning is definitely a career in progress and while some planners come to the table with a boatload of knowledge, resources and experience others need to be educated and require some guidance, training and yes experience. Two of my favorite ways to help get your foot in the door are volunteering and networking. Both great ways to inch closer to the career you want.

If time permits contact non-profits, event venues and reputable event planners and volunteer your time. Propose to family and friends that you will plan their events gratis in order to acquire skills and experience. Enduring event planning success is built on the experience and knowledge an event professional brings to their clients. Volunteering provides the chance; to learn and apply and improve skills with hands-on work along with the opportunity to develop a portfolio.

Networking is a perfect way to get your name out there and meet potential suppliers and future clients. Networking and staying connected has become a very important part of doing business these days. It provides the opportunity to establish and build industry relationships, stay on top of trends and grow professionally. It also offers the opportunity and setting to meet new people, stay in touch with others and have a better understanding of the industry in general. One of the coolest things about networking is you just never know who you will end up meeting and chatting with.

An event planner wears many hats and must oversee every part of the experience. If you feel you have the qualifications and what it takes for an event planning career but not sure where to start. First and foremost, get advice from industry professionals, volunteer whenever possible and get out there and start networking.

Filed Under: Planning An Event Tagged With: eventable, eventplanning, events, meetings, planning

Interested In becoming a Party Planner?

April 23, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

Photo courtesy of TLC

Like a lot of planners at one point in my career I was fortunate to experience being a party planner. Frankly, the majority of my work in this industry has been as a meeting and event planner organizing conferences and meetings tackling all the ins and outs it takes to plan successful scenarios. However at a time due to circumstances I zigged instead of zagging and veered off and was able to expand my circle, knowledge and experiences.

As luck would have it, I spent a smattering of time as a wedding planner and a party planner and enjoyed almost every minute of it. And during that time not only was I able to brush up on my skills and learn a lot I was able to gain some insight into other areas of the planning business.

What is the Job of a Party Planner?

The job of a party planner is to organize and manage parties and shindigs of all sorts and sizes from small to large. A party planner is responsible to arrange and oversee each and every element from the theme to the location to food and more. And while you get to meet lots of great people and the job can look more than exciting from the outside looking in, in reality it can be extremely challenging, stressful, time consuming and hard work.

A Party planner is required to use their vision, resourcefulness and creativeness and take a client’s ideas and concepts and transform them into a dream party and while you put out a lot you really do get so much more back.

Learning, Education and a Party Planner

When it comes to party planning this is a career that doesn’t command an infinite number of traditional educational requirements. And while obtaining some credentials will definitely assist would-be planners acquire the basic expertise, guidance and instruction needed for success. Some of the most important party planning tools are hands-on experience, networking and old fashion common sense. In order to get some hands-on training and experience and become more skilled there are huge benefits in working for an established party planner, at well-known parties and events or at party venues on a voluntary basis. Volunteering is the best way to acquire some of that much needed experience and know how. And network, network, network! Talk with industry professionals, make connections and create a network of folks you can trust and depend on when you need support, have questions or just need a shoulder.

As well there are copious amounts of help available from; books and blogs, tutorials and seminars, lectures and courses to help a newbie and hopeful planner get started and gain information.

The party planning and event planning business is one of the quickest growing businesses in the marketplace. Everyone thinks a party planner has the best and most exciting job ever. But like most things, it’s not as dazzling as it seems. Bear in mind like so many areas of expertise, success doesn’t come overnight it takes a lot of hard work, flexibility and experience.

Filed Under: Planning Parties Tagged With: eventplanning, events, parties, party, planning

Meeting and Event Planning – Success Starts with Knowledge

April 18, 2013 By Randy Markus Comments

computer keys with the enter key in gold with the word success

Photo courtesy of csitscenter

When it comes to meeting and event planning, there are as many types of meetings and events as there are reasons to have them. Events and meetings bring together people for an assortment of reasons and are used to educate, resolve issues, brainstorm, team build, motivate and so much more. For a meeting or event to be effective and successful it takes a boat load of knowledge, resources and planning, planning, planning.

When planning a meeting or event as equally important as the location, room style and set-up is the meeting type. With all the different kinds of meetings and events along with the various terms to describe them it is imperative to understand the various explanations.

Meeting and Event Planning – Knowledge Starts with Information

When in the process of meeting and event planning it is helpful to categorize the various types of meetings or events with the function reason as well as the type of attendee that will be partaking. With all the kinds of meetings, different gatherings require distinct and different preparations, location, set-up, timing and logistics and so on. Once you establish the meeting type and goal, you then can make the appropriate plans to successfully accomplish the purpose and objectives.

Meeting and Event Planning – Different Types of Meetings

A Seminar is a meeting about a particular subject and is largely planned for education reasons, or is held to instruct and coach groups on certain subject matters and skills. Most often a seminar is led by industry authorities and specialists.

A Conference is a well-planned, executed gathering of a group of individuals to discuss, debate and deliberate specific topics and information. It is larger than a meeting and while similar to a convention it is smaller in size but one thing is for sure; no matter the topic it’s all about communication.

A Symposium is an organized meeting where an authority in a specific industry convenes, presents and communicates. The objective is to talk about and provide ideas, advice and a recommended plan of action.

A Workshop is similar to a seminar and is often misidentified. While like a seminar a workshop is an educationally based event, as a rule a workshop is a group, down to business and participatory activity. Workshops are an excellent set-up for problem solving and teaching, relationship building and hands-on learning experiences.

Meeting and Event Planning – Different Types of Events

A Team Building Event is held to help employees and teams; get to know one another better, improve relationships, build trust, sharpen communication, increase efficiency and work out differences. They can run the gamut from scavenger hunts to chocolate making to white water rafting to a day at the circus.

A Product Launch is the introduction of goods to the marketplace. As a rule this is the first time customers have the opportunity to see and learn about a new product. Industry and media professionals are invited to partake in the launch of the product. More times than not the event is a large one and can add to or take away from a company’s success.

A Tradeshow is a presentation planned for organizations of a particular industry to unveil, explain and showcase services and products to peers, professionals and authorities alike in their industry. It is also about the interaction and connections between individuals sharing experiences and know-how.