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Monday, November 24, 2008

Event Planning Tips for the Holiday Season

Event planning is a large and exciting part of public relations, especially around the holidays. Planning events with “seasonality” is important to PR professionals and their clients. If a company wants to have a holiday special, or Christmas Gala to raise money for children in shelters, seasonality is important for events.

During the holidays, many people will be planning and hosting holiday dinners and parties of their own, turning into PR professionals for their event. Here are some great PR tips for planning your very own holiday event this season.

Pay attention to competition. Do you have other friends or neighbors that are throwing a holiday event on the same day you are? Would your guests have to choose between which party to go to? Look into this simple detail to avoid having half your guests attending some else’s party and putting guests in an awkward position. Find a date that would cater to your guest list’s availability.

R.S.V.P. Make sure your invitations have an R.S.V.P. on them. Knowing how many people will be in attendance ahead of time will allow for a smoother party, with plenty food and space for everyone.

Creativity. Why not have a theme party? Being creative with the event in terms of theme, décor, food and entertainment can make all of the difference. You want people to remember your party as a great time and a party incomparable to others. Try having a Mr. and Mrs. Claus themed party or having a cranberry sauce sculpture of Santa Claus. Have enough creative entertainment to keep your guests well entertained. Having a small scavenger hunt for a prize can create great memories. Be creative, yet classy, and don’t do anything disrespectful towards your guests' religions.

Venue. Location, location, location. Where are you holding you event? In your home or in a hall of some sort? Make sure wherever you are having your party, the venue is appropriate for the type of party you are having. If you anticipate 30 guests, don’t have your party in a large venue because it will seem empty, this would be better as an at-home event. Is the venue decorated to give off the ambiance you are trying to achieve? If you are having a ‘Winter Wonderland’ theme, then make sure the venue appears to be white with snow and has a classic look.

These are just a few characteristics that I will be looking for when attending events and parties this season. I am looking for a Thanksgiving feast, and a Christmas party with unforgettable memories and holiday cheer! Pay attention to these elements and you’re on your way to a having a great holiday party.

So, what is the fate of your party, holiday joy or a holiday destroyed?

This guest blog was written by PRowl Public Relations firm staff member, Olivia Ragni.

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