Here’s the secret weapon: TIMELINES & CHECKLISTS. Yes! As common as it may seem, you can’t have a successful event without it.

Imagine this scenario: You’re hosting a lit end-of-year party for your company. The DJ is booked, the venue secured, but on the D-day, things unravel. The decorations haven’t arrived, the guest list is missing, and suddenly, you’re scrambling instead of resting. A well-crafted timeline and checklist could have saved the day!

So, what should you do?

Step 1: Know Your Why!

Before diving into dates and details, identify your event’s goal. Is it a glamorous wedding, a thought-provoking conference, or a gospel concert? Understanding the “why” shapes the “how.”

Step 2: Timeline!

Think of your timeline as a roadmap to success. Here’s a typical breakdown for a Nigerian event:

• Months in Advance: Secure the venue, finalize budget, book key vendors (MC, caterer, decorator, etc.)

• Weeks Before: Finalize guest list, send invitations, confirm logistics (security, transportation)

• Days Leading Up: Prepare MC script, conduct rehearsals with performers, finalize menu with caterer

• The Big Day: Delegate tasks, ensure smooth flow of the event, troubleshoot any last-minute hiccups!

• Tip for MCs: Block out specific times in your timeline for soundchecks, introductions with performers, and audience interaction segments.

You can check tips for planning a wahala-free event.

Step 3: Checklist!

Now, let’s add some flesh to the timeline with specific action items. Here’s a sample checklist for decorations:

6 Weeks Before: Finalize decoration theme and style.

4 Weeks Before: Research and source local vendors to deliver your dream decor.

2 Weeks Before: Finalize décor contracts and payments.

1 Week Before: Confirm delivery times and locations with the vendor.

The D-Day: Delegate setup to a trusted team member and do a final quality check!

Remember, checklists are your customizable companions. Adapt them to your specific event needs, whether it’s managing guest RSVPs for an event planner or sound equipment checks for an MC.

Bonus Tip: Tech-Up!

There are fantastic Nigerian event management apps that can be your digital lifesavers. Explore options that allow you to create timelines, assign tasks, and collaborate with your team. (eg: Super Planner App, Pro Party Planner App, To:Day, etc)

By wielding the power of timelines and checklists, you can:

• Reduce stress: Knowing everything is planned allowing you to focus on creating a memorable event.

• Boost efficiency: No more scrambling for details – you have a clear roadmap to follow.

• Impress your audience: A well-organized event reflects professionalism and creates a positive experience.

So, the next time you’re planning an event, big or small, don’t forget the power of preparation! With a well-crafted timeline and a trusty checklist, you’ll be ready to rock any event.

Your Most preferred Event MC,

Ibiam Obinna Kelvin

#kingofsauceandstyle#MCOB#africasno1

#eventtips#eventplanning#events2024#eventdecor#EventHost#nigeriaevents#weddingstyle#weddings#owambelovers

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I reached out to the event planner to resolve the issue immediately and after about 10 – 15mins of dialogue, Jollof rice finally came to the rescue. According to the caterer, the number of guests was more than what the event planner ordered and so they had to stop serving guests at some point so that the couple can have some food to take home at the end of the day.

If you are an event planner of any sort, please note this: Nigerians love a good event – weddings that last for days, birthday bashes with enough jollof rice to feed a village but let’s be honest, sometimes these events can turn into small wahala if they’re not planned properly.

So to save yourself from all that drama, be extra careful with your planning:

Sharpen Your Saw: Before the invites go out, be clear on the event’s purpose, budget, and target audience. A well-defined plan is the foundation for a wahala-free event.

Guest List: Keep your list tight! A manageable number allows you to focus on quality over chaos. Everyone gets served jollof rice, and nobody gets lost in the crowd.

The Venue: Pick a space that fits the event’s style and size. Ensure good ventilation, ample seating, (the guests need enough space to dance and feel the owambe) and consider parking too.

Delegate: You can’t be everywhere at once. Assign trusted helpers/Vendors for tasks like setting up, Protocol, and managing the flow of the event.

Communication is Key: Keep everyone informed – guests, vendors, and your team. A clear timeline and expectations prevent confusion and last-minute scrambles.

Stay Flexible: Things don’t always go according to plan. You need to factor this in your planning and have backup options for potential hiccups. A little improvisation can save the day!

Wahala-free events are totally achievable. With proper planning, clear communication, and a positive attitude.

Make your next event a celebration everyone will remember for all the right reasons!

Cheers!

Your Most preferred Event MC,

Ibiam Obinna Kelvin

#kingofsauceandstyle#MCOB#africasno1

#eventtips#eventplanning#events2024#eventdecor#EventHost#nigeriaevents#weddingstyle#weddings#owambelovers

The post Tips to Plan a Wahala-Free Events appeared first on IBIAM OBINNA KELVIN.