“Do I need an Event Planner or Event Manager?” | “Can I afford one?” | “What do they do?”

As a long-time business owner and club manager, I answered with a resounding, “Nope.” I did it myself, and you can, too. But, if you don’t have the time, don’t want the stress, lack the network or experience, or require a comprehensive plan and flawless execution, a Planner might be for you.

An Event Planner can help you:

1. Define the goals and objectives of your event.

2. Set a date and venue that will maximize attendance.

3. Build a master plan and budget.

4. Brand, market, and advertise.

5. Arrange the details - speakers, sponsors, vendors, etc.

6. Launch and manage ticket sales and registration.

7. Handle the “day of” event setup and management.

8. Evaluate, analyze, and follow up post-event.

The cost varies but is usually either a per-hour charge of $45 for elemental work, a flat rate for basic planning and/or day-of management (starting around $500), or a flat rate plus a percentage of either ticket sales or vendor commission. I prefer a flat rate and clear, up-front communication so that you know what to expect and I know what is expected.

“Is Renee the right person?”

Maybe. I represent a niche, mostly horse, hound, and hunting events, especially multiple-day, multi-faceted (lodging, transportation, food, speakers, agenda, etc.), inbound (people coming to the event), and business or organizationally-hosted events. I am experienced in the Western ranching and guest ranching world (think horse or cattle drives, trips, trail/poker rides, pack trips, brandings, and clinics) and the foxhunting world (think special/holiday, away/joint meets, camps and 101s, hunter paces, hound and horse trials, fundraisers/balls, and other celebrations.) I do not consider myself a horse show manager or a wedding planner, though I have done both.