Here is why I am an Event Manager....practical and detailed from the start (as your event should be!).  Here I will share with you what I refer to as putting together your 'Event Personality' as each event is different, with different desired outcomes, therefore having it's own individual personality. 

First identify:
1. Who are your attendees?

Why do we hold events, why spends 100's of hours and 1000's of dollars?  It's all about the people who attend our events, the information and impression they leave with.  So identify who they are:
- High end Corporate Professionals
- Scientists
- Farmers who need to know about a new week killer
- International Guests

2. What is the purpose of your event?

Events don't happen for no reason, what is the purpose for your event?  With this defined you know the results your event needs to achieve. 
- To educate people
- Entertain
- Build team relationships
- Company Promotion

3. Location

Do you have any location boundaries?  This will give you an idea of how far and wide to search for a destination and then venues.
- Does your event need to be in your state
- CBD Location
- Within certain travel time from the airport

4. Do you have any themes in mind?

Does your event have a theme?  Some themes are ideally suited to certain styles of venues, making it easy and not to mention cost effective if you choose a venue that ties in with your theme.

5. Guest Numbers

How many guests will be attending your event.  This number automatically creates a framework for you to work from when taking the first step in finding a venue as your event will be too small or too big for some venues leaving you a nice selection that suits your needs. 

Don't let guest numbers fool you either, I have worked in large spaces where we have brought in walls and clever themeing to make the room smaller to suit our guest numbers. 

6. Budget

This is certainly not a trick question, budget really gives you, your potential venues and suppliers a good base to start from.  There may be some things that are out of your financial reach but with a clear and realistic budget you can start to get creative and find ways for your venues and suppliers to work with you and throw around innovative ideas.  You may wish to read my article, Transforming Events to meet a Realistic Budget.   

7. Sum it up!

With this data you have your 'Event Personality' creating a great starting point so you can start looking for that perfect venue and gain accurate quotations.  This way each venue is given the same Event Brief allowing you to compare their proposals and the customer service you receive during this process. 

Venue Selection

Choose a venue for the right reasons.  Don't forget to ask venue what they have done in the past, they are a great source of information and know what works well in their space.  Wherever possivle be a little crazy in your ideas and think outside the square. 

Most of all enjoy the process.  We are spoilt for choice in Australia and have a fantastic Industry of passionate professional to really make your event dreams come true! 

Happy Event Planning.

Kim Hesse
Venues 2 Events

Would you like assistance in finding the perfect venue?  Contact Kim Hesse