Event planning, from an intimate birthday celebration to a huge wedding is no mean feat. So, if you’re in need of some help planning an event you’ve come to the right place. We sat down for a coffee with event planner extraordinaire Kate Park to get some advice on event planning, be it a party, function, wedding or conference.
Manchester Hall – Hi Kate! You’re so well known on the event planning circuit, but for those new to event planning, tell us a little bit about what you do?
Kate – I run my own event management company; Kate Park Events, which I founded in 2014 after 11 years working in the industry. We organise weddings, corporate events and private parties. We love the diversity.
What’s the first thing on any event planners to do list?
There are many things on our daily to do list but the first item is always to prioritise the next event on the calendar. We run through dedicated files identifying what is left to research, book, confirm – we make sure every detail has been covered.
What’s the one thing people tend to forget about when it comes to planning an event?
That things don’t always go to plan, no matter how organised you are! Prepare for the unexpected. An accomplished planner can react calmly and efficiently to unforeseen circumstances that may occur. It could be something as simple as a supplier arriving late with not enough time to set up and find they are still working as guests arrive. The ultimate cringe moment… the devil is in the detail!
How do you keep guests entertained at all times?
You need to be able to read and react to the mood and the atmosphere; it’s all about keeping the event flowing.
What would you say is the most challenging aspect of your job?
Everyone has challenging moments in their jobs and mine would be dealing with family politics during the planning of a wedding. Brides and Grooms apologise to me about family dramas, thinking they are the only ones to have them. But in all honesty it’s more unusual not to have a family drama!
How do you ensure you are up to date with industry trends? What’s your favourite trend at the moment?
Social media, magazines, in fact my eyes are always open – inspiration can come from the most unsual sources. I research locally, nationally and internationally; you can never rest on your laurels, it’s vital to keep things fresh. But most importantly, you have to listen to the client and find the style they desire.
My favourite trend at the moment is the return of the murder mystery dinner party, especially for corporate events. It lets the guests really let their hair down and interact with their fellow staff members, creating the perfect team building event.
What makes a really memorable event?
Using Kate Park Events!
Budgets can vary so what areas at an event are worth spending that little bit more on?
Entertainment and plenty of delicious food so your guests don’t leave hungry.
Negotiating with venues and suppliers isn’t always easy. How do you tackle those tricky questions?
Establishing relationships are so important. You also have to be realistic, honest and fair to the venue, the supplier and the client. But the event has to be perfect; whatever it takes!
If you could give one piece of advice to anyone starting to plan an event what would it be?
Call Kate Park Events on 0161 905 2052 or email kate@kateparkevents.co.uk
How do you deal with guests that might be a little…..merry?
It’s normally a good sign that the party is going well! But on the very rare occasion someone does cause disruption, we deal with it sensitively and discretely…with plenty of water, chip butties and fresh air!
Contact Details;
Kate Park Events Ltd
www.kateparkevents.co.uk
0161 905 2052
kate@kateparkevents.co.uk
If you’d like to speak to our amazing team at Manchester Hall about booking your own special event, we’re ready to help make your celebration one to remember! Call us on 0161 832 6256 or fill out our contact form here.
Category: Blog Event Planning, Party Planning, Q&A, Tips, Wedding
36 Bridge Street, Manchester, M3 3BT
Tel: 0161 832 6256
General: info@manchesterhall.co.uk
Weddings: weddings@manchesterhall.co.uk