Event Planning: Role of the ideal host

So you were selected as the honorary event planner/host at your workplace; you planned the perfect event - food, drinks, decor, music, theme - the whole shebang. Everything on point! You are super proud of yourself and pat yourself on the back!

You can see everyone's enjoying the live band while chowing down on the 3 course meal, all of a sudden you hear one of the guests shriek "Ewww.... there's a fly in my drink!" What do you do? (a) size her up and down, then decide whether or not she's V.I.P enough to deserve your attention (b) pretend you didn't hear a thing - after all you are only the event planner/host and not the 'help'? (3) be the perfect host and get one of the servers to replace the drink... for real, how would you deal with the situation?

There are a few things to consider when it comes to event hosting etiquette. Regardless of the type of event - cocktail, gala, workshop, barbeque, luncheon - it is your responsibility as the host to ensure that every guest (regardless of VIP status) is adequately taken care of. Obviously, it is fine to assign specific servers to VIP guests, however, you need to ensure that your other guests are not neglected.

If you are planning/hosting an event soon, below are some hosting etiquette you could consider for your next event:

• Ensure all your guests have food and drinks within a reasonable period of time. The last thing you want is people complaining about not having enough food and drinks at the event

• Ensure alcoholic beverages are put away at least 1 – 2 hours before the event ends (this reduces the risk of people driving home intoxicated. It’s your party – you set the rules!)

• Mingle – make sure you are available to your guests, and that you are moving around and making small talk. Do not hangout with only one group of guests, that could make other guests feel less important  

• Make sure everyone is having a great time! Introduce guests who may have come alone to other guests. This will ensure no one feels left out

• One last thing, make sure the music volume is at a comfortable level so people can hear themselves when they chat at the tables, and those who feel like dancing can also dance.

Now that you have these 'perfect-host' tips, how would you respond to the guest who found a fly in her drink? :) . 

Have a great time planning/hosting your next event and enjoy the video below! Cheers!!!

Related articles

• Centerpieces: Your event is your own production... make it a true reflection of you (christinescreatives.com)
• Essential tools for event planning (christinescreatives.com)
• First Impressions... closing the deal - or maybe not. (christinescreatives.com)