Best Practices for Successful Special-event Execution

September 13, 2005

By Judy Allen

Poor event planning, preparation and day-of performance can result in your special event running at a loss, failing to attract new sponsors, being unable to pull in media attention and leaving committee members struggling with ticket sales not just this year but for future events as well. Not knowing what to ask or what red-flag areas to look out for can have serious repercussions -- and they can be costly. For example, organizers of one event -- after an "estimated" costing contract was signed off on -- found themselves facing more than $100,000 in unexpected costs -- and that was from just one line item; many other hidden costs were revealed as their event progressed.