Event Planning

Do you have an upcoming special occasion? Have you started thinking about how you will go about making it happen? Have you asked yourself, “Where do I start?”

I’ve talked with many people who have never hired a caterer before, and who have never even hosted an event. Truth be told, there are several factors in planning an event and it’s a lot of work, especially for those “newbies” just trying to make mom’s birthday special, or planning a corporate event for the first time and who want to ensure it’s unique and memorable, or even a recently engaged couple who are beginning the process of planning their wedding.

There is so much to do, so much to consider: food, flowers, centerpieces and decorations, music, bar and beverages, rentals (china, glassware, linens), venue selection, timing, appointing attendees and assigning tasks, attire, transportation and more. It can be a daunting task, a fun and exciting process, or, most likely, a nerve-wracking, stressful, and simply overwhelming effort. Most people start with a list, and that’s always the best first thing to do. Once you start making a list, it’s easier to “work the list” to achieve what you’ve set out to accomplish.

The best advice I can give anyone planning an event for any occasion, is to find a caterer who is also an event planner and manager that offers full-service. This “one-stop-shopping” will save you tons of time, and also provide you with an unbelievable feeling of accomplishment as you are able to check numerous items off your list! My approach is always to remain flexible, to give information, to work to resolve questions, and offer to provide as many or as few services as my client desires.

Brian Morriss is the owner of Cheat a Little Catering, a Bay Area-based event planning and event services company. For more information, please phone 650-227-1125 or visit www.cheatalittle.com.